Into the Fire

I still find it amazing when Christian readers slam authors for including "sensitive" material in their novels. The reasoning behind this often refers to the scriptures which expose the danger of being responsible for causing another to sin. If this logic is used to complain about the contents of a story, then perhaps the real onus should be upon the reader, not the writer. I've never known a writer of CBA novels who sits down to create a book which will imperil a future reader. When people look for ways to be offended or to be led astray, they will certainly find them in abundance. How is it that many of these readers miss the intent and content of the story from the back cover copy or the mini-synopses on cover jackets? And then whatever makes them pick up this sinful tome must also direct them to finish reading the entire story before complaining to the publisher, giving a mean-spirited review on Amazon or elsewhere, chiding the author for their poor choice of content, and questioning their Christianity while declaring they shall never read another work by this author. 

Readers have a responsiblity to choose the right material for themselves. Readers who have a low tolerance for the conduct of the world being portrayed realistically should research their choice of authors. It's easy enough to do. There are so many CBA novels that cater to these kinds of readers. In fact the majority of novels from CBA fit this description so there really can be little excuse for readers who want to venture into new territory winding up with a novel that doesn't suit their "sensitive" tastes. Blogs and websites detail the types of novels written by various Christian authors, and informed librarians can be of substantial help

Sensitivity to causing another to sin resides in the hearts of all Christians. However, it's not for a reader to decide the author's intent in writing the novel. It's the reader's job to make sure her own heart is right. Assuming a story will certainly cause someone else to sin goes too far. It's self-righteouness displayed for all to see. It's vanity to set oneself up as judge and jury. Only One has the right to do that and rest assured He will. 

God, you use your writers for many purposes and you take pleasure in variety. We answer to you, Lord. Daily. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.