Inspiration from Jesus: A Writer’s Best Ally Beyond Belief
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Chapter 1: The Universal Influence of Jesus
I’m aware this may ruffle some feathers, but please know that it’s not my intention to offend. Writers don’t need to identify as Christians to benefit from the insights and teachings of Jesus. Belief in his divinity or even his historical existence is not a prerequisite.
Consider how often you’ve drawn inspiration from fictional figures. It’s likely that you have, even if you don’t realize it. From Shakespeare and Twain to Steinbeck and George R.R. Martin, the characters they’ve crafted have influenced writers and non-writers alike. These personas permeate our daily lives—on T-shirts, bumper stickers, and even in our writings. They serve as a reservoir of wisdom for many, especially for those in the literary field.
Yet, the topic of Jesus often seems off-limits outside of religious communities. This hesitance stems from a fear among secular writers that mentioning him in a non-religious context could jeopardize their careers. They may believe that Christians will retaliate, as if divine wrath would befall them. While it’s true that some Christians may respond negatively if approached disrespectfully, this isn’t a universal truth.
Don’t Shy Away from Inspiration
Regardless of your perspective on Jesus—whether you view him as divine, merely human, or even as a fictional character—there’s no need to hesitate in seeking inspiration from him. Jesus was a profound teacher and philosopher, addressing nearly every aspect of human existence. If you engage with topics such as:
- Self-Help
- Philosophy
- History
- Inspiration and Motivation
- Life
- Ethics
You’ll find a wealth of insights in the life and teachings of Jesus.
The Sermon on the Mount
Let’s delve into one of Jesus's most renowned speeches, the “Sermon on the Mount,” as recorded in the Gospels of Luke and Matthew. This sermon encompasses various subjects, including love, morality, forgiveness, and more. It’s a treasure trove of material that can serve as examples, quotes, or inspiration for your writing.
You may be familiar with the “Golden Rule”: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you!” This principle was articulated by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. Interestingly, the concept predates Jesus and can be traced back to Ancient Egypt. Regardless of its various interpretations across cultures and religions, it remains a timeless truth.
Lessons from Jesus in Daily Life
No matter your beliefs, Jesus offers invaluable lessons relevant to everyday living. His teachings on love, forgiveness, and faith are powerful. He addressed anger and grief, promoting a sense of servitude that is uplifting. His approach varied from gentle encouragement to stern rebuke, depending on the situation.
To explore this further, check out this insightful article by Erin Falconer. By now, you can see how incorporating these ideas can enrich your writing, offering readers meaningful insights. Jesus didn’t merely appear during his crucifixion; he lived for around 33 years, imparting lessons that resonate through the ages. His teachings have gained even more significance worldwide since Emperor Constantine’s conversion of the Roman Empire to Christianity.
“Jesus, to me, is a great world teacher among others.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Reflect on This
Regardless of how you interpret Jesus’s message, it’s undeniable that he sparked a movement that has become the world’s largest religion by 2022. Would this be the case if he failed to inspire and uplift others? Would such a movement flourish if he preached hate and exclusion?
So why not draw from Jesus for your writing inspiration? Approach the subject with respect and thoughtfulness (unless you’re critiquing Christianity, in which case, that’s your choice). As writers, we often draw from a myriad of influences, including characters and historical figures; we should not shy away from one of the most profound sources of inspiration known to humanity.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Voice
I want to clarify that this is not an attack on Christianity, nor is it a religious commentary. I honor diverse beliefs, even when I don’t share them. This piece isn’t about telling anyone what to think or believe; it’s about encouraging you to find your own path.
That said, I believe that expressing controversial ideas can be vital for any writer. One of my aims is to inspire, motivate, and provoke thought in those who read my work. Every time I write, I strive to leave the world slightly better than I found it.
“Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” – Jesus, Matthew 6:34
Be inspired. Be motivated. Be better!
Chapter 2: Engaging with Jesus’s Teachings in Writing
In this chapter, we’ll explore how to effectively incorporate Jesus’s teachings into your writing.
The first video titled "Who's Writing Your Story? | A Greater Story | Part 1" examines the impact of storytelling and how it relates to personal narratives, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own writing journeys.
The second video, "My TOP 10 Tips to Writing a Great Christian Book," provides practical advice for writers looking to integrate Christian themes into their work while maintaining authenticity and creativity.