Part I: The Power of Story—Why Fiction Matters to Christians

This month, I’m stepping outside of my usual blog rhythm to share something close to my heart—a two-part series about the role of fiction in the Christian life. I hope this detour speaks to your soul and encourages your reading life!

The Power of Story—Fiction's Place in Faith

I often hear people place nonfiction at a higher value than fiction. They read, but they don't have time for novels. Fiction is extra. Maybe entertaining, but not necessarily edifying.

But the more I reflect, the more I’m convinced: story isn’t a side dish. It’s central to how we learn, grow, and connect. And not only that—it’s biblical.

Jesus didn’t lecture His followers with academic outlines or bullet points. He told stories.

“Jesus told the crowds all these things in parables, and he did not tell them anything without a parable.” —Matthew 13:34

Why stories? Because truth wrapped in a narrative reaches us in a way facts alone often can’t. A story speaks to the imagination, evokes empathy, and lingers in the heart. Think of the Good Samaritan, the Prodigal Son, the Lost Sheep. These fictional characters have become some of the clearest pictures of God’s kingdom and His call on our lives.

Story engages the whole person—our emotions, our imagination, our memory. When we’re moved by a character’s growth, when we weep at redemption or rejoice in reconciliation, we are actually rehearsing spiritual truths in our hearts. Fiction becomes a mirror, a doorway, a whisper of something eternal.

Scripture is Full of Story

Many Christians prefer the ease of soundbite verses—the snippets in the New Testament that state truths simply. But the majority of the Bible and its truths are told in story.

From beginning to end, the Bible is rich with narrative—stories, both true and imagined. The story of David and Goliath teaches courage and dependence on God. Ruth’s story shows loyalty and redemption. Esther, Joseph, Abraham, and countless others demonstrate the unfolding of God’s plan in human lives.

These stories are full of emotion, tension, decisions, failures, and faith. We see what faith looks like in action. We aren't simply told to believe it.

And it's not only stories. The Bible is full of poetry, prophecy, lament, love songs. Even Song of Songs has its place—reminding us that emotion, beauty, and desire are not fluff, but God-given design.

So no—I don’t believe reading fiction is lesser. And I definitely don’t believe it’s unbiblical.

Why Christian Fiction Still Matters

When we write or read Christian fiction today, we follow in a long tradition of using story to reveal truth. Writers like C.S. Lewis, through The Chronicles of Narnia, showed us Christ through a lion named Aslan. Through fantasy, adventure, and childlike wonder, generations have glimpsed the gospel in ways they might not have through textbook theology.

Modern Christian novels can do the same. They can show grace in action, redemption in brokenness, forgiveness in pain. They can soften our hearts, remind us of beauty, and stir our desire to know God more deeply. That’s not fluff—that’s formation.

“Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely… think about such things.” —Philippians 4:8

Good stories can be all of those things. Whether you're reading a historical saga, a literary bestseller, or a love story (more on that next time!), know this: fiction is not second-rate. When it is rooted in beauty and truth, it’s a gift that can stir our faith, renew our minds, and draw us closer to the heart of God.

Devotional Reflection Prompt:

• What story—biblical or otherwise—has shaped your faith?

• Think of your favorite Bible story—what truths does it reveal about God and mankind through the story? What aspects and values in particular connect with you?

Take time this week to thank God for the gift of story—and ask Him to keep speaking through both Scripture and imagination.

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Author Life Update:

Though we're breaking up the usual post rhythm, I still have a few updates from the writing desk.

First up: congratulations to the winners of last month's audiobook giveaway! Kathy and Teresa, I hope you enjoy the audio version of Reaching for Grace.

In other bookish news: Outside of Grace is on sale for the next couple of days for just $0.99! And Reaching for Grace is on sale for $2.99 right now, so be sure to grab it too.

And looking ahead—we have a cover for Before Grace! For now, here's a teaser glimpse at it, but get ready for the full reveal. There's also a novella prequel in the works. Watch for more news about that, coming soon.

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Thanks for joining me this month. I would love to know what stories have impacted your faith, and keep an eye out for Part II next month.