Fantastical Truth - SoundSage

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Spider-Man! Spider-Man! Does whatever other heroes can’t. And these days, that means make a good movie. Other super-movies, even in the Marvel world, take on the fake responsibilities of social activism, then are forced to fight the sinister criticism of fans. Meanwhile, Spidey and his amazing friends just keep uniting people in his friendly cinematic neighborhood. How does one hero keep wielding such great power?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Winter’s Dawn by Morgan L. Busse 2. Realm Makers fundraiser for ongoing defamation lawsuit 3. The Talismiths: The Secret Saboteur by M. L. Hodder 4. King Justice: The Legend Begins by Evelyn M. Exley

Mission update New at Lorehaven: The Shattered Ones* book quest has begun. * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild.

Superhero movies are fighting off villains.* Just last week we heard of more cancelled Marvel movie projects.
With some exceptions, the MCU has flopped on streaming screens.
Apart from quality, fans discerned a stench of Agenda moments.
Perfect-storm also struck with Jonathan Majors cast controversies.
Unlike older movies, fans follow every detail, leak, and rumor.
And like Spider-Man’s powers, internet is our gift and is our curse.
Meanwhile, DC’s latest reboot can’t even get off the ground.
DC is cancelling and delaying projects as a buyout draws nigh.
In the past, DC has proven actively hostile to particular fans.
Official statements and books isolate and mock certain versions.
For instance, The LEGO Movie mocked Green Lantern the hero.
In another case, an official Superman book criticized Zack Snyder.
In both universes, fanbases are divided, politicized, anti-heroic.
It feels like they’re pitting fan “denominations” against each other.
As a late famous comic creator famously uttered, “ ‘Nough said.”
But everybody loves one friendly hero.* Meanwhile, over in the Spiderverse corner of the Marvel world …
Corporate heads, marketeers, and actors alike are unifying for this.
Consider one recent GQ stunt with Brand New Day actors at trivia.
(‘Ware language.) Actors were asked about many Spidey versions.
In this universe, every story gets canonized and respected equally.
This follows No Way Home’s blend of previous film characters.
But for DC, they’ve tried to purge all previous versions except one.
This unifying approach helps fans love all Spider-Man versions.
Whether you like Tobey, Andrew, or Tom, you can celebrate Spidey!
So it’s not political. Now fans can have fun doing compare/contrast.
This ends up more like denominations who unify in essential faith.
(And yet that only goes so far. Holland won’t meet Madame Webb.)
The rise of self-aware yet sincere stories.* This year we’ve seen a wonderful increase of truly good films.
Three come from Amazon/MGM: Project Hail Mary, The Sheep Detectives, and even Masters of the Universe all work so well.
Jenneth Leed praised Hail Mary’s earnest optimism and hope.
This is “metamodern,” a flavor beyond modern and postmodern.

Now we’ve faced real-life dystopia, war, political unrest, and a divided society. More people long for the hope of modernism, but aren’t so naïve to think life doesn’t come with the complexities postmodernism criticized.

So instead of embracing one philosophy over another, metamodernism combines the best features of both. This approach keeps the self-awareness, irony, and subversions of expectations. But these stories also value hope, sincere themes, and admirable heroes. In fact, one working definition for metamodern storytelling may be, “Delivering a sincere theme about life in a self-aware or absurd premise.”

Note: this isn’t the same as flippant stories that claim “optimism.”
And it’s a whole galaxy far from stories ashamed of their nature.
Stephen has loved “metamodern” stories wherever they appear.
The Tick and Galaxy Quest also skewer tropes yet stay sincere.
Even the original Superman: The Movie (1978) does this so well.
Do note Richard Donner’s out-loud commitment to verisimilitude.
So do Sam Raimi’s and Marc Webb’s two Spider-Man film series.
And one detects much of this in Lord and Miller’s Spiderverse
Brand New Day will likely follow in these wall-crawling footsteps.
We’ve had enough division over clashing canons and flippancy.
Through other reboots and controversies, Spidey stays faithful!
And if other Marvel and DC films do the same, they can unify fans.

Com stationTop question for listeners* What do you love about sincere superhero stories?

Next on Fantastical TruthChristian kids, do you remember all those old warnings against fantasy fiction? Some people implied that if you made up too much stuff, you’d lose track of reality. Alas. For some cases, they’re absolutely right. Too many people are abusing God’s gift of imagination. They cast people they do not know as villains in a fantasy world in which they are the big moral heroes. This habit is taking over social media. And now this sin is hurting faithful creators we know. How can Christian fans respond?

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Everyone’s talking about that new release from Christopher Nolan, the feature film that is just so big that it’s one everyone oughtta see. Zack has already seen it. Stephen will see it sometime. Meanwhile, what about that book by Greek poet Homer that changed the course of our world’s epic storytelling? Dramatist and author Phil Lollar—no stranger to that name!—returns to the studio for our tour of The Odyssey.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Worlds Collide by Clint Hall 2. Above the Circle of Earth (softcover) by E. Stephen Burnett 3. Iffy Eats Monsters for Breakfast by Bryan Timothy Mitchell 4. Lorehaven Guild: July 2026 book quest for The Silver Chair

Mission update New review at Lorehaven: Regeneration and more * New Onscreen article: Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ Film May Feel Woke but Fights for Judeo-Christian Morality * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild * New book quest Aug. 3: The Shattered Ones* by Brigitte Cromey

Quotes and notes* This episode follows 322 about real risks of “toxic fandoms.”

We have forgotten what makes a pagan convert. We think that Peter and Paul were preaching to greedy, selfish, lustful pagans. They weren’t. They were preaching to greedy, selfish, lustful literary pagans, and that made all the difference. The Roman knew he was cowardly because God gave him a conscience, but he knew he could be more than a coward because Homer gave him Hector. The Greek lady recognized she was flirting with infidelity because she had moral instincts, but she knew she could resist infidelity because she also had Penelope.

Want to Change the World? Read Harry Potter

Backstory: Phil Lollar

Phil Lollar started his performing career at the tender age of five. He won numerous acting awards in high school, and studied music, screenwriting and directing in college. Phil then worked with Focus on the Family, co-creating Adventures in Odyssey and writing more than 270 episodes plus directing more than 400 episodes. Phil also co-developed the hit comedy series Jungle Jam and Friends! as well as the animated video series Little Dogs on the Prairie. Phil also served as a writer and consultant for the television series, The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss. Phil resides in Arizona with his wife.

Phil Lollar’s page at AdventuresinOdyssey.com

Subscribe to the Adventures in Odyssey Club

Newest AiO album release: The Long Way Home

Fans say Nolan’s film is mixed yet moral* Stephen’s impression of the criticism and often-reluctant praise.
Zack Russell’s take on the film that he just saw the previous day.
Phil Lollar’s response to the film and/or the cultural controversies.
Our adventures in Homer’s The Odyssey* Basics about the story’s origin: date, setting, English translations
Stephen hasn’t yet read The Odyssey; Zack and Phil Lollar have.
Their thoughts on the story as a story, what it is and what it isn’t.
Open discussion
Epic stories owe their lives to Odysseus* Homer’s legacy across 2,000+ years of culture and mythmaking.
His sense of Greco-Roman morality helped built our real world.
Without this story, we’d likely have no other fantasy worlds.
Open discussion

Com stationTop question for listeners Did you make yourself read The Odyssey*? What did you think?

Next on Fantastical TruthSpider-Man! Spider-Man! Does whatever other heroes can’t. And these days, that means make a good movie. Other super-movies, even in the Marvel world, take on the fake responsibilities of social activism, then are forced to fight the sinister criticism of fans. Meanwhile, Spidey and his amazing friends just keep uniting people in his friendly cinematic neighborhood. How does one hero keep wielding such great power?

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That’s how it starts. The fever. The rage. The feeling of powerlessness. That turns good fans … toxic. How does this toxification happen? Or does it happen? Maybe it’s all the fault of big corporations. Or social media. Or foreign adversaries poisoning the discourse. In either case, we need discernment to sort honest criticism from harshest cynicism.

Mission update* New at Lorehaven, Daniel Whyte IV’s Onscreen article: Supergirl Strives to Be Good, but Struggles to Save a Disempowered Movie. * Reviews are currently on hiatus, but we have over 380 of those! * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild.

Critics are writing off famous fantasies, and we concede their demise. We also believe in an Author who surprises us with epic resurrection. Listen to episode 307.

They don’t—some of this is legit criticism.* Quick snack from the Concession Stand. We’ve talked about this.
Big corporations selling bad storytelling have blamed “toxic fans.”
Disney tried this against fans who disliked Star Wars TV shows.
They maybe learned their lesson and didn’t try it with Snow White.
And even the current DC regime didn’t do that much with Supergirl.
In this case, studios may be driven to these scripts by leftist media.
In fact, look for some media pundits to do this against Andy Serkis.
But the fans may just be saying, “That’s not for me.” Loudly.
Often the fans have legitimate reasons for loudly rejecting stories.
Stephen feels this way about previous and current DC hero movies.
But in the past, the studio lied to DC fans and called them “toxic.”
Even some false criticisms have some truth mixed into them.
Fans claimed an actor called “Elliot Page” was playing Achilles.
It turned out she wasn’t; she played another soldier character.
But this is still a gender-bend. And that character replaces Achilles.
So what angry fans told you was true, from a certain point of view.
In either case, this isn’t “toxic.” That label implies a kind of sin.
One may spy the familiar hues of the old fundamentalist legalism.
But if you can’t call something sin, don’t manipulatively imply it is.
Sin is binary. Actions are motivated by idolatry or by faithfulness.
And anything that isn’t an actual sin is just creative differences.
Fans may see actual folly, but overreact.* Nevertheless, some fans have too much fun booing the screen.
This is best illustrated by the infamous “Cinema Sins” channel.
Its maker monetizes constant, often foolish movie nitpicking.
This impulse, when it catches, ruins otherwise good franchises.
Most recently, some anti-fans did want Christopher Nolan to fail.
They did spread lies about Odyssey casting as if these were fact.
Meanwhile, sociopolitical agitators slander Greta Gerwig’s Narnia.
They claimed as fact “Meryl Streep is playing Aslan.” Unconfirmed.
Frankly, Stephen believes this could be Netflix’s rope-a-dope tactic.
If/when we hear Ciarán Hinds voices Aslan, the goals get moved.
Fans may then easily forgive “race-swapping” or era-changing.
We’d miss the real crime: ignoring Lewis’s original 1900s setting!
So don’t get played either by studio false-flag ops or the agitators.
Yet a few YouTubers, known for criticism, can be more balanced.
Behind their loud clickbaity titles and aggression is an earnest side.
Example: Gary Buechler says he earns just as much from positivity.
In fact, his whole TV interview (even on Piers Morgan) is healthier.
Stephen enjoys these YouTube roasts, but also these critics’ praise.
For example, it’s been a pleasure to see Buechler loving One Piece.
Later they become lost in sinful cynicism.* We do need legitimate or balanced criticism, shared reluctantly.
Alas, some of these voices do take over factions of our culture.
This is the hateful, spiteful, deconstructive impulse from actual sin.
We see this in many political movements that despise creativity.
Often they are spreading lies and subversion more than big studios.
One could conclude these “critics” aren’t even happy being critical.
And we see this from certain Christians who have axes to grind.
Zack and Stephen see some voices only cursing cultural darkness.
They are selling negativity and/or implied solutions (they made up).
But at least the faulted corporations did try making new things!
We’re back to the adage, “Don’t curse the darkness; light a candle.”
Christianity gives no moral clearance for “professional cynics.”
Our worldview is eternally positive. No matter the evils we see.
And even non-Christian humanists ought to catch biblical optimism.

Com stationTop question for listeners* Have you ever been accused of being a “toxic fan”?

Next on Fantastical TruthEveryone’s talking about that new release from Christopher Nolan, the feature film that is just so big that it’s one everyone oughtta see. Zack plans to see it. Stephen may eventually get there. Meanwhile, what about that book by Greek poet Homer that changed the course of our world’s epic storytelling? Dramatist and author Phil Lollar—no stranger to that name!— will return to the studio for our tour of The Odyssey.

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Not just Independence Day, but all month long, American citizens are celebrating our nation’s semiquincentennial called “America 250.” Other fans from around the world are joining in! But some folks, of course, feel uncertain about such patriotism. Don’t our countries have a lot of problems? Isn’t our eternal citizenship in Heaven? Let’s explore how Scripture endorses “the glory and honor of the nations.” And let’s recall how fantastical stories illustrate this good love of our country.[1. Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash.]

Mission update New at Lorehaven: review of All That Glows* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Why some struggle to love their homeland We’ll disclaim illegitimate hatred or homeland, called oikophobia*.
Some prefer imaginary or opposite “homes” rather than real ones.
Still others are rank traitors for bad reasons, and can be rejected.
Yet more legitimately, “home” has a bad stigma for some people.
We must not let “home was bad for me” turn into “it’s bad for all.”
Nor should we let this impulse turn into “the nation is bad for all.”
Yes, a few countries are built on truly wicked foundations.
But most are not—certainly not those with listeners to us now.
Even if people do like America, however, they may feel guilty.
A similar impulse occurs to Christians who like other earthly gifts.
“Our treasure is in heaven, so nothing here on Earth matters.”
Subtle gnosticism: if it all burns, why value these temporal places?
How stories remind us of good homelands* Naturally we begin with the classics by authors who loved England.
Lewis and Tolkien saw bad battles and offered critiques at home.
But their stories remind us how good heroes fight for their peoples.
Hobbits foresee the danger to the Shire and leave home to stop it.
Aragorn loves his people and his country, despite their flaws.
Faramir doesn’t love weapons but “that [land] which they defend.”
Narnia’s kings and allies fight for her and for other good countries.
The Horse and His Boy is about the good country of Archenland.
Even harsh Calormenes, opposed to Narnia, have good qualities.
Classic sci-fi by the French Jules Verne honors American spirit.
Japanese stories adore American heroes, and we return the favor.
On this side of the pond, stories show America’s flaws and heroes.
Independence Day (1996) shows a pulpified-U.S. fighting aliens.
Transformers and Top Gun movies tend to follow that tradition.
Overtly “patriotic” stories are more about flavor, not philosophy.
Back in the UK, Stephen thinks Harry Potter shows this differently.
Spoilers: Harry learns Prof. Dumbledore made a lot of mistakes.
Yet the grown-up Harry chooses to stay on his mentor’s side.
And really, such open-eyed loyalty is the root of good patriotism.
And yes, good countries could last forever.* These are good enough reasons to love even temporal gifts.
But let’s add more. I believe great nations are in fact eternal.
Why? Because of direct promises about eternity in Scripture.

By [the city’s] light will the nations walk, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it, and its gates will never be shut by day—and there will be no night there. They will bring into it the glory and the honor of the nations.

Revelation 21: 24-26

John could have said “earthly kingdoms get destroyed.” He didn’t.
He clearly means us to think that earthly authorities can continue.
And he specifically says “the glory and the honor of the nations.”
It would appear that nations (groups of people) are not sinful.
New Earth is the fulfillment of God’s original purpose for Earth.
So why not New Israel? New India? New Britain? New America?
Could the “glory and honor” include fireworks? Hot dogs? Ideas?
Jesus is King of all eternity. Yet other “kings” will also be known.
Other verses refer to saints having leadership in the New Earth.
Could some lands try different models? Monarchy? Democracy?
Perhaps in the New Earth, we’ll see the best of all those systems.
Voting could continue, in some ways, certainly at smaller scales.
If this seems weird, recall that nations are just large people groups.
No prophecy implies a removal of today’s diversity of humans.
Nor does it imply that everyone will love everyone else the same.
New Earth will not sanctify “everyone belongs to everyone else.”
Surely, after loving Jesus most, we’ll also love others differently.
You’ll love your own family “more” than other people’s families.
And if you were married, you’ll love him or her more than others.
So it is with countries. It’s okay, even good, to have preferences.
We want people to like their own spouses/families/countries most.
So if that impulse will be right forever, it can also be right today.
For more, read this: Why I Look Forward to America 250,000.

Com stationTop question for listeners Have you ever struggled to love your homeland?*

Next on Fantastical TruthLots of folks have said plenty about Christopher Nolan’s controversial retelling of Homer’s classic The Odyssey. We might see the movie. Or we might not. In either case, this book is an absolute cornerstone not just of human literature, but of fantastical fiction. How did this hero’s journey change the course of all other heroic legends after him?

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This year’s Realm Makers event came up fast. Zack and Stephen had a blast at the annual event just two weeks ago in St. Louis, Missouri. Whether you got to join us there, or would like to catch up later, let’s survey the successes of this three-day conference and expo. And as more Christian fans (and creators!) find their place in these challenging yet fantastical worlds, we will explore how Realm Makers is not just helping you find your tribe, but helping slowly change the real world.

Episode sponsors1. Twist of Time by Tricia Goyer and Nathan Goyer 2. Realm Makers 2026 Conference & Expo 3. Author Update from Author Media 4. Iffy Eats Monsters for Breakfast by Bryan Timothy Mitchell

Mission update New at Lorehaven: new reviews * Stephen’s article: “Why I Look Forward to America 250,000.” * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild. * This week: we begin our quest into C. S. Lewis’s The Silver Chair*!

Thursday: the Realm Awards banquet* Zack’s arrival and initial view of the St. Louis Union Station Hotel.
Comparisons between this new venue and previous RM locations.
Stephen’s arrival and all-day setup of the Lorehaven booth.
Evening festivities: the Realm Awards costume banquet.
What we wore, what we saw, and who won best dressed.
This event celebrates the best Christian-made fantastical stories.

Winner of the Realm Award for 2026 Book of the Year: The Unraveling of Emlyn DuLaine by Lindsay A. Franklin

Winners of the 2026 Realm Awards: Comics/Graphic Novels
The Epistle to the Galatians: Word for Word Bible Comic: NIV Translation, illustrated by Simon Amadeus Pillario, published by Word for Word Bible Comics * Cover Design
Daughter of Light by Morgan L. Busse, cover design by Jenneth Leed, published by Enclave Publishing * Flash Fiction
“Godspeed, Spaulding” by Olivia Gratehouse, published by Havok Publishing * Short Stories
“The Department of Lost Things” by Shannae Grace, published by The Author Conservatory * Audio Drama
Route Styx (Season 1) by Colton Grellier, published by Sound and Fury Entertainment * Audio, Short to Medium Length
Jake Muller Adventures: Undead by Micah Touchet and Darby Kern, published by Tannhauser Gate Entertainment * Audio, Novel Length
Embergold by Rachelle Nelson, narrated by Aimee Lilly, published by Oasis Audio * Novelette/Novella
“The Keeper’s Voice” by Teddi Deppner, published by Parabolic Orbits / Onward and Upward Media, LLC / Ben Avery * Debut
Return to Aramon: A New Moon by Ezra Ferguson, published by Songmyth Media, LLC * Middle Grade/Young Readers (Combined Category)
The Mage Pocket: Apprentice Alliance by Millie Florence, published by Sprouting Pen Press * Young Adult
The Unraveling of Emlyn DuLaine by Lindsay A. Franklin, published by Enclave Escape * Adult
The Valkyrie by Carrie Cotten, independently published * Horror/Paranormal/Supernatural
Forever by Gina Detwiler, published by Ally Press * Cross-genre
The Dogs of War by Emily Hayse, published by Blue Maverick Press * Fantasy (General)
Fates Defiant by Brigitte Cromey and C. M. Banschbach, Borderlands Publishing Company * Fantasy (Romance)
Rune by Victoria McCombs, independently published * Science Fiction
The Crier Stone by Lyndsey Lewellen, published by Enclave Escape * Readers Choice Award
Captive by Bradley Caffee, published by Mountain Brook Fire * 2026 Book of the Year
The Unraveling of Emlyn DuLaine* by Lindsay A. Franklin, published by Enclave Escape

Friday: Realm Makers Expo, day 1* Intro the Lorehaven booth and especially our Side Quests.
This time we had distinct Creature Quests and Treasure Quests.
Lacy Rhiannon is that overseer, while Stephen helps/talks sci-fi.
Lots of families with kids found purpose in visiting all other booths!
That afternoon, Stephen and Zack joined Clint Hall’s sci-fi panel.
Stephen then joined Lucas Kitchen’s “Christian label” discussion.
Zack’s perspective on the writing conference, including keynotes.
Saturday: Realm Makers Expo, day 2* Today was less writers’ conference, more fan-focused events.
Stephen joined a book-signing with Ronie Kendig and Kathy Tyers.
Also there: German Lutheran pastor/Jedi knight Stefan Munker!
Plus our new Realmie, Jess Luttrell of the Cosplay4Christ podcast.
Later, Stephen had a blast emceeing Tricia/Nathan Goyer’s event.
More meetings with fantastic creatives, including Paul McCusker.
Zack’s perspective on the end, including any keynote addresses.

Com stationTop question for listeners Will we see you next year, July 22–24, for Realm Makers 2027?*

Next on Fantastical TruthNot just Independence Day, but all month long, American citizens are celebrating our nation’s semiquincentennial called “America 250.” Other fans from around the world are joining in! But some folks, of course, feel uncertain about such patriotism. Don’t our countries have a lot of problems? Isn’t our eternal citizenship in Heaven? Let’s explore how Scripture endorses “the glory and honor of the nations.” And let’s recall how fantastical stories illustrate this good love of our country.

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Gatekeepers everywhere. If they’re not “Big Hollywood” trying to fence out Christian creators, they’re natural barriers like lack of resources. Then along comes the siren call of generative AI. It is said these tools can boost creators’ art powers and help them dodge burly guards at the gates! Of course, these programs also generate quite a ruckus. But apart from disputes over job changes and environmental impacts lies one greater question for us fans—can all these cool tools actually help Christian storytellers make amazing new works that change our world?

Episode sponsors Twist of Time by Tricia Goyer and Nathan Goyer * Realm Makers 2026 Conference & Expo * Author Update from Author Media * Iffy Eats Monsters for Breakfast* by Bryan Timothy Mitchell

Mission update New at Lorehaven: new reviews of The Donor* and more * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Yes, if we use gen-AI as tools, not minds.* Stephen is first to admit some hatred of AI has grown very foolish.
Undoubtedly these may include absurdist political activisms.
You may have facts/opinions about data centers and water use.
And you may want to “beat China,” or else not care about that.
But some of us at Lorehaven never first relied on those arguments.
If you marry that “spirit of age,” pro– or anti-AI, you’ll be widowed.
Instead we asked about the biblical purposes of humans and art.
So all we say here needs to be the Scriptural steel-man version.
What if tech lords did make AI cheaper? Built in space? Won big?
Your support/opposition to any tool should remain the exact same.
Stephen prefers one guiding idea: use AI as a “tool,” not “mind.”

“…Never trust anything that can think for itself if you can’t see where it keeps its brain?”

—Arthur Weasley in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J. K. Rowling

Maybe, with biblical human safeguards.* In this case, biblical reason supports mastery over tools, not verse.
This isn’t just about AI or any technology, but universal to creation.
Mankind can abuse anything as an idol or use it for God’s glory.
AI is a special case when it is generative, “making” “new” “art.”
Creators have different opinions on how/whether to use this.
Stephen does refuse to use generative AI in basically all respects.
Nothing he writes, at any stage of the process, is AI-generated.
However, he will use AI programs as tools for research/tutoring.
These programs excel at gathering/repeating public information.
When it’s “scraped” from free sources, that seems more ethical.
Researchers, however, should know to cite primary sources.
Creators can do that may aim closer for biblically ideal creativity.
But if creators refuse, and “outsource” their own minds to tools?
Well, they’ll get lost in the slop and will reach creative dead ends.
No, if we rank ourselves over fan interests.* A few activists seem overly bullish on using AI as substitute-minds.
They’re the opposite to reflexive (and short-sighted) AI haters.
Some even call loudly for Christian-made art, quick, easy, good(?).
This seems a strange cope, short-sighted, and reality-challenged.
The cope: some creatives have not made it far past previous gates.
They do seem to think mechanical tools will solve human problems.
Short-sighted: Christians do already use AI to generate “artworks.”
Example: Jon Erwin with House of David season 2 and Old Stories.
Yet we don’t hear much about these. That may tell us something.
Reality-challenged: this is where Stephen may end the debate.
Clear aside all talk of ethics, gatekeepers, policies, impacts.
Four simple words blow up gen-AI optimism: Thanks, I hate it.
That’s all you need to end all this hoopla about gen-AI revolutions.
If the people don’t want it, they don’t want it. And that’s that.
Right now, people don’t want it. How do we know? We asked AI.

Stephen queried three AI programs with this question:

Apart from the debates over cost, environmental impact, economy shifts, and all the politics, especially among leaders in big tech and government … what could we say is the public’s general impression in response to AI-generated images, movies, music, and other artworks? Is the public’s stated response good, mixed, or negative? Any particular trend-lines to note?

Response from ChatGPT (excerpt, more optimistic):

Public sentiment is neither uniformly positive nor uniformly negative — it skews positive for convenience, novelty, and clear utility, but is strongly negative or cautious when authenticity, creator rights, trust, or deception are at stake.

Response from Gemini (excerpt, mixed-negative)

If you strip away the high-level policy debates and economic anxiety, the general public’s stated response to AI-generated art—images, music, movies, and literature—is highly mixed, but leaning increasingly negative and protective of human creativity.

While people love playing with the tools as novelties, the moment they switch from being creators to consumers, a distinct psychological shift occurs. Data from major public opinion studies (like Pew Research, Stanford HAI, and various consumer tracking surveys) highlight several fascinating, counterintuitive trend-lines regarding how the public perceives AI art. (bold emphasis in original)

Response from Grok (excerpt, mixed-negative)

Mixed, with a lean toward negative or skeptical once people know something is AI-generated—particularly for standalone or fully AI-created works—though curiosity and practical utility exist. Public impressions are nuanced: many appreciate the technology as a tool or for novelty/entertainment, but there’s consistent preference for human-created art, emotional depth tied to human experience, and transparency. Pure AI outputs often face backlash as “slop,” lacking authenticity. (bold emphasis in original)

If even AI programs reflect this skepticism, that’s big. Even an AI skeptic like Stephen sees its use in aggregate “polls.” * Anyone claiming optimism about AI is logically bound to hear this. * Apart from AI is anecdotal evidence. Few fans want gen-AI stuff. * Right now, fans are praising films with practical, human-made art. * They like the indie-horror movies and Project Hail Mary, no AI. * And they love the new Spider-Man* trailer with suits and shadows! * Some makers boast AI will save time and bypass the big gates. * But if fans don’t like that “slop,” the maker simply indulges himself. * That’s fine for personal enjoyment but not for real service to others. * We’ve already seen this with bad Christian human-made stories. * If we’re practical, why we intentionally clash with the market? * Even if fans want to make AI slop, they do not want others’ AI slop. * And if we’re idealistic, why make inhuman slop for human souls? * We lose all high ground at claiming to be more virtuous and godly. * We would lose all the how-it’s-made stories behind the stories. * Remember that whole AI-generated-actress thing? Flash in a pan. * But people love the deeply human Tom Holland (who’s wise on AI!). * Not only that, we’ll be wildly and foolishly off documented trends. * There may be a place for gen-AI content, in memes or political ads. * In other words, this stuff is disposable “art.” Yet it will not last. * If we want to save today’s culture, gen-AI is certainly no savior. * And if we want to grow and train others, AI could become a villain.

Com stationTop question for listeners* As a fan, how do you feel when you learn any “art” is generated?

The Adaptation Stationmaster replied to episode 317:

It’s actually pretty rare for me to mourn when a good TV show ends. I feel like too many of them go on too long past their peak because they’re popular. It’s kind of nice to see them decide to go out on a high note instead.

One Guild hero (and his wife) grieve over Star Wars:

My wife and I had just seen the second third Star Wars sequel. I didn’t like it, but she was devastated. Star Wars wasn’t just a story she appreciated. It was part of the tapestry of her life, woven into some of her best memories. She had put so much of her time and love into that galaxy far, far away, and in that moment it felt like it was broken beyond repair, forever.

Her restoration started with the books. Star Wars has one of the widest bodies of expanded universe lore, so even she could find something new to dig into. …

It’s an odd place. In one sense, the universe is still destroyed. Star Wars has lost its place at the top of the pop culture pyramid, and may not ever take that place again. Through that, it might lack the largesse that allowed it become such an expansive universe in the first place. But, her place still existed.

I think that’s where many of us will find ourselves in the coming days: wishing for the grand galaxies of yesterday, but finding only little pockets of warmth among the stars.

Next on Fantastical TruthWe’re recording this episode before Realm Makers! So once we return, we’ll have a better idea of what topics to cover. But in general, we can say that we’re pleased to have met or re-met so many Lorehaven fans at that expo. Lord willing, we’ll see you again in St. Louis next summer!

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One of the sillier myths in our culture claims, “Most men don’t read.” Sometimes this is a real trend. Other times it’s wishful thinking because some folks don’t want to share stories that boys and men want to read. Still, we can join to equip Christian fathers and other mentors for their unique God-given responsibility—to train kids to fight dragons. And for that mission, author James R. Hannibal rides back into the studio.

Episode sponsors Twist of Time* by Tricia Goyer and Nathan Goyer * Realm Makers 2026 Conference & Expo * Author Update from Author Media * Descendant Publishing

Mission update* New at Lorehaven: new reviews and articles * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes* Lightraiders year 2: Crowdfunding campaign * Yes, Men and Boys Will Read—If You Give Them the Right Books

Intro: James R. Hannibal

Former stealth pilot James R. Hannibal is no stranger to secrets and adventure. He has been shot at, locked up by surface to air missiles, has hunted insurgents with drones, and was once chased by an armed terrorist down a winding German road. James is the Realm Award–winning author of the Lightraider Academy Trilogy series and a three-time winner of the Silver Falchion Award for Juvenile Fiction for his Section 13 series. He also stewards the discipleship learning adventure game Lightraiders.

JamesRHannibal.com · Facebook · Instagram · X.com

Lightraiders is being quietly re-forged* Life updates: Something brought James here—fate, destiny, a horse.
How we can pray for the Hannibals and support Courser Media.
Meanwhile, the original for-profit Lightraiders is now a nonprofit.
Reasons for the change, especially for culture-changing Christians.
Behold the goal of discipleship storytelling* Dragons roam the land. We must learn to combat these creatures.
Christians do need “just for fun” creative works that entertain.
Yet we also need fiction that teaches truth, beauty, and goodness.
Parents need both kinds of stories to help train future warriors.
The future of Lightraiders and beyond* New quests and crowdfunding goals for Year 2 of Lightraiders.
After that, what’s next will depend on the nonprofit’s support level.
Also, Classics Rebooted: sci-fi Around the World in Eighty Days!
Do follow Courser Media, Lightraiders, and James R. Hannibal.

Com stationTop question for listeners* How did mentors and fantastical stories train you to fight dragons?

Lavay Byrd enjoyed ep. 316 with Rebecca P. Minor

Hi, all! I was just listening to the podcast, and all your discussions really hit what I’ve been feeling towards the sad explosion of overly sexualized/”porn” romantasty or even considered “regular fantasy” populating bookstores, while books like Lord of the Rings or even Christian Fantasy being treated as an afterthought.

Listening to you all discuss such a sad reality made me think of how “overly-sensationalized” books are basically harmful drugs that’s poisoning readers, more so among the teens and YA.

I’m so glad to see writers like Rebecca P Minor and many others not only acknowledging the darkness for what it is, but also shining HOPE LIGHT and TRUTH that always overcome darkness through story. I also agree that we need more real characters with flaws and struggles, making choices both dark and good, while opening up a path for grace and redemption.

Next on Fantastical TruthOur next episode will release after Realm Makers. So at this point, we haven’t yet planned it! Perhaps you’ll have an amazing idea. Or maybe we’ll catch some trend or topic at the Expo that we never would have considered. Either way, we hope to see you next week in St. Louis.

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This week we wanted to explore 1980s fantasy. But sometimes it’s hard to recover nostalgia when present-day villains keep killing our favorite heroes. Last week, the BBC announced Doctor Who is dead. For now. Rest in peace, Time Lord. Also these days, Stargate fans are rallying to hold Amazon to its original promises of restoring that universe with original creators, and stop the ‘Zon from some “modern audience” reboot. For these and fans of other Star franchises, how do we mourn?

Episode sponsors1. Twist of Time by Tricia Goyer and Nathan Goyer 2. Realm Makers 2026 Conference & Expo 3. Author Update from Author Media 4. Descendant Publishing

Mission update New at Lorehaven: new review, Maxine Justice: Public Offender* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes* “June 3, 2026: Stargate cancelled, for the fourth and likely final time,” Joseph Mallozzi’s Weblog, June 3, 2026 * “June 6, 2026: Do Fans Matter?”, Joseph Mallozzi’s Weblog, June 6, 2026 * “Why Amazon canceling the new Stargate series is a mistake – and fans are trying to tell them,” Trent Moore at Static on the TV, June 6, 2026 * “Former ‘Dr. Who’ showrunner Russell T. Davies says women and transvestites should be over-represented in creative writing until ‘things are balanced,’ even if it takes 100 years.” See this June 10 X.com post @BreitbartNews with video of original Davies interview. * “Save Stargate with Martin Gero,” Change.org petition * “Lego’s latest design research: what girls want,” Reena Jana at ZDNet.com, Dec. 19, 2011

Doctor Who destroyed by Russell T. Davies* BBC, June 10: “BBC cancels Doctor Who Christmas special and Russell T Davies announces exit,” absolutely predictable end.
Back in 2005, Davies revived Doctor Who serials on television.
The series had “politically correct” moments, yet great writing.
Writer Steven Moffat took over. The show got big. Then declined.
In the late 2010s, political leftists demanded Doctor Who
A lackluster showrunner took over. Fans rejected a gender-swap.
Davies returned a political omnicause monster. He killed the Doctor.
Amazon rejects a fan-centered Stargate Variety*, June 2: “‘Stargate’ TV Series From Martin Gero Not Moving Forward at Amazon (EXCLUSIVE),” and fans were outraged.
Original creators were on board, per the Nov. 2025 announcement.
Now they join fans opposing this seeming ridiculous double-back.
Amazon may want a “modern audience” show, not original fans.
This is a universe more impossible than any sci-fi scenario.
That’s not how you grow a fanbase ever. True fans will grow it.
Stephen finds this similar to #ReleaseTheSnyderCut. He’s drawn in!
Star Trek/Wars still struggle to survive* We saved this for last because fans everywhere rightly lament.
Since our last episode on the topic, we’ve seen major updates.
Mandalorian and Grogu bombed. Starfleet Academy was axed.
Technically both franchises flounder ahead with illusory intent.
Kathleen Kennedy is finally leaving Lucasfilm, owned by Disney.
Star Trek showrunner Robert Kurtzman is likely next to go.
Corporations aren’t evil. But inhuman corporatism is parasitic.
This “mind of metal and wheels” has ruined stories for Christians.
But now the Christians are improving. These stories are decaying.
We really can’t pretend “popular culture” is just neutral ground.
Activists do want to kill these stories and replace them with others.
To speak truth, we should acknowledge the justifiable backlash.
And then we mourn their deaths. But not as those without hope.
After all, the results could be worse. What if the hijacking worked?
Even non-Christian fans saw through the trick. And they said no.
The “market” did its job, perhaps thanks to God’s common grace.
It’s nearly like the Law rightly punishing violators. It is necessary.
Let them suffer the results. Maybe repent. But retreat in disgrace.
And if possible, may better storytellers rise up to restore worlds.
Until then, let great story-worlds like Doctor Who rest in peace.

Com stationTop question for listeners* How do you grieve the loss of fantastical stories you once loved?

Next on Fantastical TruthOne of the sillier myths in our culture is that “Most men don’t read.” Sometimes this is a real trend. Other times it’s wishful thinking because some creators don’t want to make stories that celebrate boys and men. Still, we can look to fathers and mentors to train younger men, not just to love truth, but to love fantastical stories that honor truth. Just in time for the next stage of the Lightraiders tabletop game system, pilot and author James R. Hannibal returns to the studio to help fight dragons.

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What if the wicked villains did conquer the elves? And what if a young elf-maiden was forced to carry the offspring of one of the invaders? That’s the new novel The Rending Cauldron, just brewed by fantasy author and Realm Makers president Rebecca P. Minor. Today, Becky joins us in the studio to explore tough topics, dark drama, and the expanding worlds of Christian-made fantastical fiction.

Episode sponsors1. All That Glows by Lauren Smyth 2. Realm Makers 2026 Conference & Expo 3. Author Update from Author Media 4. Descendant Publishing

Mission update New at Lorehaven: new review of Darkend* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Backstory: Rebecca P. MinorRebecca P. Minor writes sword-and-sorcery fantasy across The Windrider Saga and The Risen Age Archive series. As president of Realm Makers, she also joins her husband Scott helping other fantasy and science fiction writers create God-honoring stories. The Minors have three geeky sons. Now in their empty nest season, they’re seeking ways to further the Realm Makers mission while also tending to their roles as the servants to a couple of spoiled cats.

Instagram: @‌rebeccapminor
Facebook: @‌rebeccapminor
From faith to Realm Makers to snarky elves* Rebecca’s testimony, even early work at the pre-Lorehaven blog.
Some quick notes on the founding and growth of Realm Makers.
More about The Windrider Saga and The Risen Age Archive series.
From snarky elves to complex fantasy Images and ideas that led to The Rending Cauldron*’s premise.
Why this new novel is more appropriate for grown-up readers.
Early responses from readers and a guide to complex stories.
Forging a deeper Christian-made fantasy* Stories can avoid politics, but wrestle with pre-political moralities.
They can go beyond jargon and apply crises to realistic people.
And not every story is for everyone. Readers can help each other.

Com stationTop question for listeners Who is your favorite fictional elf? * What is your favorite thematically complex story?*

Next on Fantastical TruthSome fans love the new He-Man movie. Others may not care so much, especially if they didn’t grow up in the 1980s. But no matter your age, fantasy franchises from that decade have shaped the creative worlds we know today. How can Christians look back on this era with discernment and appreciation for good nostalgia?

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So much sci-fi likes to imagine that humans survive for centuries with some knowledge of classic literature, music, and cultural memory—everything except our religious beliefs. But today we explore a new sci-fi subgenre that dares to suggest the opposite. Faithful priests and other religious heroes of the future may not be wicked villains. In fact, they may be kind of awesome—and potentially fight in powerful mech armor. What is this subgenre some creators call incensepunk?[1. Photo by Rod Long on Unsplash.]

Episode sponsors1. All That Glows by Lauren Smyth 2. Realm Makers 2026 Conference & Expo 3. Author Update from Author Media 4. Descendant Publishing

Mission update* New at Lorehaven: Stephen is on break for the annual Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference; welcome to any new listeners he met while teaching about fantastical stories there * Now we’re getting ready for Realm Makers. More on that soon. * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand* Stephen and Zack are Protestants, and yet often enjoy fellowship with Catholic friends. * Many creators of fantastical fiction, such as J.R.R. Tolkien, come from these other traditions. * So we wanted to speak with today’s Catholic creators of fantastical stories. * We’ll be joined today by the staff of Incensepunk Magazine * They promise “High tech, high church… science fiction that envisions a future where faith is a living part of culture.”

Backstories: Incensepunk staffJon James, editor-in-chief

Jon’s work has been published in the Listen: the Sound of Fear anthology, the Killer Queen comics anthology, Recompose Journal, Theme of Absence, and Rehumanize International. His hobbies are as multifarious as the genres he writes in.

Follow him: Twitter, bsky, Substack, Website

Yuval Kordov, developmental editor

Yuval Kordov is a chronically creative nerd, tech professional, husband, and father to two amazing girls. Over the course of his random life, he has been a radio show DJ, produced experimental electronic music, created the world of Dark Legacies®, and built custom mechs with LEGO® bricks.

Follow him: Twitter, bsky, Substack, Website

Andrew Gillsmith | Marketing Director

Andrew Gillsmith is a science fiction writer living in St. Louis, Missouri. He is the author of Our Lady of the Artilects, the Deserted Vineyard series, the Planet Gallywood series, and The Jerusalem Passage. He currently works in publisher development in the programmatic advertising space. He is married to Cheryl and has two young sons, a Great Dane, and a pet rat named Reggie.

Follow him: Twitter, Substack

Who built the Roman sci-fi roads* Exploring foundational sci-fi and fantasy stories from Catholic authors

“What we call the Catholic novel isn’t necessarily about a Christianized or catholicized world, but simply…one in which the truth as Christians know it has been used as a light to see the world by.”

—Flannery O’Connor

How the Roman sci-fi road is being rebuilt* What Incensepunk does differently than secular, Protestant, or even other Catholic authors

“Incensepunk is, at its core, a genre of longing. It desires a world in which traditional faiths and churches play a major role in society. Incensepunk extrapolates Byzantine and Gothic architecture styles into a modern world of skyscrapers and globalization. However, it is not regressive. It doesn’t view the past as good and the present as wicked and depraved. Instead, it tries to envision what the world could look like if faith and society were more integrated.”

—from the Incensepunk Manifesto

Future directions for the Roman sci-fi road* How the future is religious

“Artificial intelligences do not undergo experiences, do not possess a body, do not feel joy or pain, do not mature through relationships, and do not know from within what love, work, friendship or responsibility mean. Nor do they have a moral conscience, since they do not judge good and evil, grasp the ultimate meaning of situations, or bear responsibility for consequences. They may imitate or even simulate, but they do not understand what they produce, for they lack the affective, relational, and spiritual perspective through which human beings grow in wisdom.”

—Pope Leo XIV on X.com

Com stationTop question for listeners* What is your favorite fantastical story featuring a Catholic character?

From Victor DiGiovanni in response to Ep. 313: Should Christian-Made Stories Evangelize Nonbelievers?

I love that we are in an era of Christian media to where a single book or movie or TV show doesn’t have to accomplish all the goals of Christian media. It always seemed that a “Christian book” or film HAD to have a very straightforward call to action.

Next on Fantastical TruthWhat if the wicked villains did conquer the elves? And what if a young elf-maiden was forced to carry the offspring of one of the invaders? That’s the new novel The Rending Cauldron, just brewed by fantasy author and Realm Makers co-founder Rebecca P. Minor. Next week, Becky joins us in the studio to explore tough topics, dark drama, and the expanding worlds of Christian-made fantastical fiction.

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Summer has returned. That often brings seasonal vacations that give you downtime in a car or airplane, maybe on a nice beach somewhere. You already know that’s a great opportunity to catch up on reading. So what are some tips and tricks to refocus on reading, finding the best fantastical novels and gaining the most from these worlds?

Episode sponsors1. All that Glows by Lauren Smyth 2. Realm Makers 2026 Conference & Expo 3. Author Update from Author Media 4. The Talismiths: The Secret Saboteur by M. L. Hodder

Mission update* New at Lorehaven: reviews have entered a pre-summer hiatus * Use the super Library search to find your family’s next favorite * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Value quality books over quantity of books.* Alas, I can’t make this year’s FPEA with Realm Makers Bookstore.
But if I had, I’d have heard this line repeated: “My kid reads fast!”
This is of course a great problem to have in homeschool families.
Many want books “without agenda,” that is, obvious bad ideas.
Yet fewer parents ask for books “without ugly,” that is, excellent.
In some cases, this may feel like a luxury belief. Kids may not care.
Many kids, for example, will read at scale—good books and bad.
When I was a late teenager, I began learning some books are ugly.
My first truly bad novel was [Title Redacted] by [Author Redacted].
But in my family, I had to learn a “language” for describing this.
I was helped by reading newspaper reviews of books and films.
Then later, early 90s internet taught me better (and bad) reviews.
The Pop Culture Parent shares some guides for evaluating beauty.
Yet one clear sign—the book asks questions leading you to Jesus.
That’s why we host the Lorehaven Library and review some titles.
Still, focus on reading many quality books!* Stephen has a unique struggle: holding onto pleasure reading.
As publisher of Lorehaven, it’s hard to read without some “goal”!
But read we must, “for its own sake,” that is, for our Author’s sake.
Still, as we age, perhaps every book gains more “practical” value.
Stephen often hyper-schedules every working and resting day.
This seems a great way to set goals. “The calendar made me do it.”
And then, five or fifteen minutes in, momentum alone takes over.
You may also need to turn off your phone or use “airplane mode.”
Stephen keeps it on, but keeps all social-media notifications muted.
Distracted by chatter? Try a free white-noise generator (or an app).
Kindles and other devices also help with distraction-free reading.
Don’t forget classic printed books. There’s nothing like real pages!
Join other readers to share great novels.* Obviously your family and friends can be your first fellow readers.
Ask your kids what they’re reading, and share what you read too!
Take natural interest in their stories, the ideas, and what they love.
Stephen’s siblings and him often joined in reading and even writing.
Now, he and his wife Lacy frequently read, often aloud, with voices.
If possible, join (or start?) physical book clubs at your local church.
Focus on quality, classic, and/or Christian-made fantastical titles.
Sure, you might use sites or social media to find matching books.
Stephen isn’t sure that AI (or AI-driven apps) prove best for this.
Lorehaven features monthly book quests to help us read together.
We believe humans, made in Christ’s image, can best find books.
Subscribe free to join the Guild and talk about all manner of titles.

Com stationTop question for listeners* What are your top tricks for reading the best and most books?

Next on Fantastical TruthNow that Zack and Stephen are taking turns, next week’s episode just might cover a new genre that dares to suggest faithful priests and other religious heroes of the future may not be (gasp) wicked villains. In fact, they may be kind of awesome—and potentially wear powerful mech armor. What is this subgenre some creators call incensepunk?

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On May 14, we’ve had one Ascension Day, yes.[1. Photo by Chase Kennedy on Unsplash.] What about second Ascension Day (May 21)? In either case, Ascension Day marks the lesser-known sequel to Easter Sunday, honoring the time when Jesus Christ returned to Heaven. His disciples recorded His famous last words, including His command: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” How does this Great Commission affect our fantastical stories?

Episode sponsors1. All that Glows by Lauren Smyth 2. Realm Makers 2026 Conference & Expo 3. Author Update from Author Media 4. The Talismiths: The Secret Saboteur by M. L. Hodder

Mission update* New at Lorehaven: newly upgraded Library book search * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Let’s define the Great Commission.

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

—Matthew 28:16–20, ESV
This command is first for Christ’s disciples and then all Christians.
It’s not just about getting people saved but a lifelong faith practice.
This starts at home but expands, including baptism and teaching.
It doesn’t overrule orders to live simply, work hard, raise families.
It doesn’t overrule God’s first “commission,” the Creation Mandate.
In fact, this helps restore people to Jesus so we can do that calling.
How do some stories try to act this out?* In the past, evangelical Christian fiction focuses on nonbelievers.
They want to tell good stories, yes, but also get the reader saved.
Sometimes the hero is a nonbeliever forced to confront faith issues.
In fantasy, we met Jesus-allegories or find prayer is a weapon.
In sci-fi, we learned aliens are real (demons) and Jesus is better.
Other stories have featured “backslidden” people who need faith.
And then other stories push back with more subtle approaches.
The rise of YA brings simpler themes, often identity and courage.
Romantasy may reduce “gospel” content, favoring virtues and love.
Before: overt gospel about God. After: subtle morals about us.
In either case, the original “evangelical” impulse may remain.
Authors understandably want to do more than entertain readers.
Great stories reflect all God’s commands.* It’s important to note differences between these two commands.
So far as we know, the Creation Mandate is forever, an eternal call.
The Great Commission is temporary . It won’t be around forever.
This doesn’t make the Mandate more important. It does balance.
That’s why the apostles spoke often about families and hard work.
We have seen older novels that valued “message” over excellence.
If we feel guilty over not witnessing, we may want to compensate.
A novel may make us feel we’ve “evangelized” or helped others.
But sometimes, even then, novels like that don’t fulfill that goal.
Stephen enjoys novels that can reflect both these high callings.
And yet only the Mandate tells creators to make great stories.
My own novel does star space missionaries, yet has bigger ideas.
The point isn’t “share the gospel.” It’s, “Here’s how that can look.”
And then, “What are the costs to the human heroes who do this?”
That story is mainly for Christian readers. Others may not get it.
That’s okay. In my view, we need more stories “inside the club.”
And yet Christians can bless nonbelievers just with great stories.
They can reflect biblical truth, even gospel, yet have other goals.
These can serve as pre-evangelism, or common grace for them.
“Common grace” means the ways God blesses even nonbelievers.
He sends rain and sunshine, good government, widespread virtue.
And He enables good culture-making in a sinful world to bless us.
Great stories, even if they don’t “evangelize,” can help evangelists.
And either way, we follow both commands and glorify our Creator.

Com stationTop question for listeners Did a great novel help you get saved? Or draw closer to Jesus?*

Next on Fantastical TruthSummer has returned. That often brings seasonal vacations that give you downtime in a car or airplane, maybe on a nice beach somewhere. You already know that’s a great opportunity to catch up on reading. So what are some tips and tricks to refocus on reading, finding the best fantastical novels and gaining the most from these worlds?

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This week marks Ascension Day, May 14![1. Photo by Timo Volz on Unsplash.] So let’s rise to that occasion and survey at least seven notions about that place to which Jesus ascended—Heaven. Is it true that Heaven is only “spiritual”? Or that we can’t know about Heaven is like, so it’s best we not think much about that unchanging, un-earthly or very-earthly dimension where “time shall be no more” and where basically good people go? We’ll do our best to bypass modern myth and search the only certain Source.

Episode sponsors1. All that Glows by Lauren Smyth 2. Realm Makers 2026 Conference & Expo 3. Author Update from Novel Marketing 4. The Talismiths: The Secret Saboteur by M. L. Hodder

Mission update* New at Lorehaven: weekly reviews, recent website upgrades * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand Concession: Randy Alcorn just released a similar article last week. * By intention, I didn’t read the article, or my own previous material. * There’s a chance some of my myths (in no special order) overlap. * I do credit Alcorn’s Heaven* (2004) as a formative influence. * Yet here I’ll attempt to base my reasons straight on Scripture. * In the past I’ve rankled some folks with strange afterlife ideas. * Yet in the last 20 years more people have “discovered” New Earth.

Heaven is only a “spiritual” place.* This usually comes not from teaching, but memes and impressions.
Some of us also recall the phrase “spiritual body” (1 Cor. 15:44).
Since God is Spirit (John 4:24), isn’t this the same kind of spirit?
Won’t this mean we’ll have no body, becoming intangible, ghostly?
It’s true that God the Father is spirit, without a body. Yet not Jesus.
All resurrection ideas are based on His physical/spiritual nature.
Yes, Heaven today is for souls separated from bodies (2 Cor. 5).
It won’t stay that way after the final resurrection Jesus promises.
Paul in 1 Cor. 15 defines “spiritual body” as Spirit-powered body.
And in 2 Cor. 5 he promises we will be “further clothed,” not naked.
It’s best not to think about Heaven.* This too is not taught in Scripture, except from misquoted verses.
1 Cor. 2:9, “what no eye has seen…” doesn’t truly command this.
Even if this were about Heaven, it never discourages imagination.
But it isn’t anyway. It’s about “things God has revealed” (verse 10).
Scripture’s images encourage, not suppress truthful imagination.
I’m not sure why else God would inspire such fantastical imagery.
With biblical foundation, it’s impossible to think “too much” on this.
See also: nonsense about “being so heavenly minded…” Bad logic.
Being biblically “heavenly minded” helps us love “earthly good.”
We avoid that gnostic impulse the slogan was meant to counter.
“Time shall be no more” in Heaven.* People really do assume this phrase comes from the Bible.
It’s actually from the hymn “When the Roll is Called Up Yonder.”
That’s a partial quote from Rev. 10:6 (KJV), warning that time is up.
But the phrase got loose and reinforces vague, “spiritoid” images.
Maybe we could say time runs different in today’s Heaven.
Revelation describes events in sequence, as Heaven watches.
It references waiting martyrs (Rev. 6:11) and “half an hour” (8:1).
In either case, Scripture never implies time/matter has gone evil.
A possible rule: we need special proof for “X won’t be in Heaven.”
Unless the Bible says, don’t assume that thing won’t last forever.
Basically good people go to Heaven.* We hear this all the time, in pop culture, funerals, our own doubts.
A lot of time this myth isn’t specifically taught, only caught.
But I did hear a Mormon apologist Jacob Hansen teaching this.
In his view, basically only Hitler or “sons of perdition” go to Hell.
This notion will result in doctrine and fiction with bad views of evil.
Villains will become more “misunderstood” in reality and in stories.
Scripture never teaches this. Hell is real. Not all go to Heaven.
And if pagans saw Heaven correctly, they wouldn’t want to anyway.
Imagine an eternity of worshiping King Jesus in everything we do.
There can by definition be no perfect world apart from His reign.
Today’s Heaven looks like Earth.* Some years ago, we saw many books about “heaven tourism.”
One or two got discredited. One or two got made into movies.
Sometimes adults wrote the tell-all. But one little boy glimpsed it(?).
Whether or not they had visions, they do reinforce some myths.
For example, one book spoke of Heaven in many earthly terms.
On principle, I disagree—but not because earthliness is bad.
Rather, it’s premature. Heaven hasn’t yet united with Earth (Rev. 21).
Similarly, I hear Christians talking about believers now resurrected.
But unless they have their bodies back, resurrection is still future!
Heaven is fantastic now. Next comes the even better sequel.
We can’t know what Heaven is like.* Even if God never promised New Earth, Heaven would be great.
You get past death and suffering. You get to be with Jesus Christ.
You get to reunite with believing family, saints, heroes, and angels.
And even as you wait (accelerated time?) there are things to do!
Angels in Heaven now worship God all the time. What an epic sight.
You might get to witness a higher view of events playing on Earth.
And I’m sure we begin getting answers to many of our questions.
But also, see Revelation 6. Martyrs are still waiting for what’s next.
In fact, they know about terrible things and want God’s vengeance.
They get no “memory wipe,” only the start of greater perspective.

7. Heaven could never unite with Earth. Reckless words about Earth and bodies devalues God’s creation. * See: “that’s just her shell” or “she’ll never see him on this Earth.” * In fact, God promised she’ll get back that body and he’ll be back. * Nothing in Scripture condemns our body or the material world. * It doesn’t endorse myths like “the Earth gets forever destroyed.” * In fact, 2 Peter 3 speaks in terms of fire that refines* our planet. * Isaiah 60, 65-66 and Rev. 21 promise a Heaven/Earth reunion. * The word “new” doesn’t negate those nouns’ ordinary meanings. * Heaven is where God dwells. Earth is where we would have dwelt. * In this future God and Man all dwell together in one world (Rev. 21)!

Com stationTop question for listeners* What do you long for most in Heaven or the future New Heavens?

April wrote this for episode 303 about overseas tales:

K-dramas may have romantic clichés just like anime or manga, but they handle them better than many Western media. It’s a slow build-up, less sexualized, and focuses on emotions, sacrifice, and getting to know the other person, rather than how quickly you can get two attractive people into bed or make them kiss. Western romance is more about lust these days and that’s because it has such a bad reputation as a genre, while the old-fashioned romance of classic books is still considered respectable literature.

Next on Fantastical TruthThis Thursday, some Christians will observe Ascension Day. That’s the lesser-known sequel to Easter Sunday, honoring the time when Jesus Christ returned to Heaven. His disciples recorded His famous last words, including His command: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” How does this Great Commission affect our fantastical stories?

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Pragmata released to gaming consoles April 17. The new Capcom title promptly sold 1 million copies by its first weekend and provoked much discourse from fans and some haters. Why the hate? Because players everywhere, especially men, loved the key concept of an outer space soldier teaming up with a little android girl to fight robo-monsters. Gamers declared they would do anything to protect Diana. How do these stories help humans remember to restore our “factory settings”?

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The tale of a mecha-man and robo-girl Capcom announced Pragmata* nearly six years ago (June 2020).
The game was later delayed, with sporadic, apologetic teasers.
The pitch? Space marine finds orphaned android girl in moonbase.
They team up to fight rogue robots in hopes of returning to Earth.
Before it even released, Reddit banned one channel (TheGamer).
They said some people were sexualizing the little robot girl, Diana.
Which is unfortunately expected, and horrifying. More on this later.
Last month, the final trailer arrived, and the game itself (April 17).
After release, some men said they felt their “dad senses” awaken.

You all HATE escort missions

But make that NPC a cute kid, and suddenly you’ll burn the whole world down for them

Japan’s population is crashing. Capcom realized people wouldn’t listen to government mandates to reproduce, so they started making “Parent Simulators”

Pragmata feels like a psyop to make you want to have kids, a propaganda disguised as a game to boost the birth rates. And honestly it’s awesome.

The timeline is full of people saying Diana makes them want to start a real family. I love that we really fell for it.

—@‌TheRooster on X.com, April 20

Female players were also positively affected by Diana’s cuteness.
In response, critics blasted this positive response as closeted sin.
They saw nothing but evil motives in the male players’ enjoyment.
Single men, actual dads, and uncles alike said they’d die for Diana.
And the game’s fans began referring to human “factory settings.”
What we mean by saying ‘factory settings’ Stephen hasn’t yet played Pragmata* but wants to. Great reviews.
It turns out the idea of “factory settings” has great foundations.
This is just a pop-culture-y, meme-y way to say “human purpose.”
It’s a rebuttal to false purposes, e.g. “get rich” or “be an activist.”
In other words, the “chief end of man.” Let’s define this carefully.
In the biblical view, our “chief end” is to glorify and enjoy God.
To the Christian, our “chief end” is not to protect the innocent.
Our chief end isn’t even getting married and having families.
After all, in a sinful world, not everyone is blessed with this gift.
But … that doesn’t mean we deny that original human purpose.
It goes back to Genesis 1:27-28, God’s first command to people.
We worship Him first by acts of creation, including marriage/family.
This is our “factory setting.” By recalling the action, we get close.
The next step is to rediscover that original motive: to glorify God.

3.How these ‘factory settings’ can change us Stephen’s response is different. He’s not been blessed with kids. * Even those who are blessed with kids have rough family situations. * And of course, as some critics say, the game shows only positives. * Diana isn’t a real child, but a robot. (We don’t know spoilers here.) * Real small children have sinful natures and many challenges. * And yet… can’t a game “simulate” these with health and death? * You do “die” and respawn many times in a game, leveling up. * It’s a direct and often numbers-based “parable” illustrating reality. * That’s probably why many men love tabletop games and LitRPG. * This is not just a psychological trick. Not just a “dopamine hack.” * We may feel the same about beauty, knowing we’re made for more. * To capture this longing, C.S. Lewis used the German sehnsucht*. * We could recall this longing, but let it stay in the world of fiction. * Or else “translate” this (right or wrong) to our own human callings. * But we also hope gamers will follow through on marriage/parenting. * Not just to recover birth rates. Not just for high cultural influence. * The purpose of any creation—even of people—is to glorify Christ.

Com stationTop question for listeners* When did a simple story remind you of your purpose as a person?

Next on Fantastical TruthNext week marks Ascension Day, May 14! So let’s rise to that occasion and survey at least seven notions about that place to which Jesus ascended—Heaven. Is it true that Heaven is only “spiritual”? Or that we can’t know about Heaven is like, so it’s best we not think much about that unchanging, un-earthly or very-earthly dimension where “time shall be no more” and where basically good people go? We’ll do our best to bypass modern myth and search the only certain Source.

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You’ve likely met some Christians who emphasize safety for children rather than preparing them for spiritual conflict. That’s why some more genteel-churchy responses to pop culture have said “it’s useless” or else “stay away” from stories like Harry Potter, Doom, or Dungeons and Dragons. So is it any wonder that a top-selling subgenre among young male readers is LitRPG, often with totally epic and jacked soldier good guys (maybe with mech suits) who slay evil aliens and demons?

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Backstory: Jonathan Shuerger

Jonathan Shuerger is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who brings authenticity, faith, and a love of story to every page. His writing is marked by military precision, theological depth, and cinematic imagination. He’s the author of Devil Dog: A Marine vs. Hell, available on Royal Road. Find all his works at JonathanShuerger.com.

Warrior culture v. safety culture* Why we should train people for battle.
The martial art of Jiu Jitsu appeals to people.
Warrior culture seems to be dying.
Safetyism seems to be taking over.
How Christian culture responds to war stories* Some critics claim violent stories cause us to be violent.
What kinds of battles do we expect ourselves (or our kids) to face?
How young men long to level up* Exploring the quests young men want to take.
Jonathan’s new LitRPT book Devil Dog:
“A Marine wakes up in Hell. He’s confused by two things: he’s part of a Game where demons level themselves up, and he’s infused with holy energy in defiance of every infernal law. Time to regroup.”

Com stationTop question for listeners* What’s your favorite military story, whether from LitRPG or another genre?

Next on Fantastical TruthPragmata released to gaming consoles April 17. The new Capcom title promptly sold 1 million copies by its first weekend and provoked much discourse from fans and some haters. Why the gate? Because players everywhere, especially men, loved the key concept of an outer space soldier teaming up with a little android girl to fight robo-monsters. Gamers declared they would do anything to protect Diana. How does these stories help humans remember to restore our “factory settings”?

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“We are now approaching lunar sunrise, and for all the people back on Earth, the crew of Apollo 8 has a message that we would like to send to you. “‘In the beginning, God created the Heaven and the Earth. And the Earth was without form and void, and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters, and God said, “Let there be light.” And there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good, and God divided the light from the darkness.’”

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Mission update* New at Lorehaven: new reviews, upcoming super search * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild * Plus the Lorehaven Authorship to help terraform Christian fantasy * Stephen heads to Houston to hype space missions April 25 at Houston Christian University’s Wisdom & Wonder Conference

The crew of Apollo 8 in 1968 (NASA)

Past astronauts paid tribute to Christianity Dec. 24, 1968: Apollo 8*’s crew was the very first to orbit the Moon.
These astronauts were Bill Anders, Jim Lovell, and Frank Borman.
And they read from Gen. 1:1-10 (in the King James Version).
But the Judeo-Christian roots of NASA go even deeper.
General ideas: this is a generation still shaped by World War II.
Some call this “positive world,” when churches/faith were in vogue.
So was the actual gospel, co-mingled with “cultural Christianity.”
Rocket engineer Wernher von Braun was one confessing Christian.
These men did not just affirm Jesus as Savior but God as Creator.

“And God said, ‘Let the waters under the Heavens be gathered together into one place. And let the dry land appear.’ And it was so. And God called the dry land Earth. And the gathering together of the waters called he seas. And God saw that it was good.” And from the crew of Apollo 8, we close with good night, good luck, a Merry Christmas and God bless all of you—all of you on the good Earth.

Apollo 8 Commander Frank Borman, Dec. 24, 1968

Many early astronauts publicly acknowledged Christ or religion.
Among these were Captain Jim Lovell and Col. Buzz Aldrin.
Aldrin, a Presbyterian, took a secret Communion on the Moon.
During a pre-splashdown broadcast, he also read Psalm 8:3-4:

“When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou has ordained; What is man that thou art mindful of him? And the Son of Man, that thou visitest him?”

According to a 2019 Catholic Sun article:

It turns out Aldrin’s religious faith is not an anomaly. In fact, the 29 astronauts who visited the moon during the Apollo program were a generally religious cohort. According to NASA, 23 were Protestant and six Catholic, with a high proportion of them serving as church leaders in their congregations.

The astronauts didn’t talk publicly about their faith very much, but that’s largely because NASA started clamping down on public expressions of faith after the famous Christmas Eve Bible reading of Apollo 8, the first manned mission to the moon.

So we can’t ignore these 1960s-era acts of culture war.
People didn’t just get bored or naturally tired of public faith.
They got intimidated and silenced by angry atheistic activism.
Not the same as “classic humanism” mixed into scienctific pursuits.
That often has Christian-based virtue, just without God or Christ.
Ultimately this deconstruction kills the “science” it claims to love.
Which leads to present-day selection bias among astronaut heroes.

Captain Victor Glover, pilot of Artemis II in 2026 (NASA)

Present astronauts praise God, even Jesus “Good Earth.” Reading the Apollo 8* transcript, Stephen teared up.
We’ve also heard that phrase recently repeated around Artemis II.
Key point: you can’t get far off Earth without loving this good Earth.
You need to love God’s creation, natural law, math, and science.
And you must value knowledge, wisdom, adventure over comfort.
Regardless of personal faith, you must acknowledge higher Good.
This is what we saw most recently among Artemis II
Among these, Captain Victor Glover is the most recently famous.
You’ve likely seen his quotes circulating around social memes.
In the Orion capsule named Integrity, Glover said this for Easter:

I don’t have anything prepared. I think these observances are important. And as we are so far from Earth and looking back at the beauty of creation, I think for me, one of the really important personal perspectives that I have up here is I can really see Earth as one thing.

When I read the Bible and I look at all of the amazing things that were done for us, who were created [to be]—you have this amazing place, this spaceship. You guys are talking to us because we’re in a spaceship really far from Earth. But you’re on a spaceship called Earth that was created to give us a place to live in the universe, in the cosmos.

Maybe the distance we are from you makes you think what we’re doing is special. But we’re the same distance from you. And I’m trying to tell you—just trust me—you are special.

In all of this emptiness—this is a whole bunch of nothing, this thing we call the universe—you have this oasis, this beautiful place that we get to exist together.

I think, as we go into Easter Sunday, thinking about all the cultures all around the world, whether you celebrate it or not, whether you believe in God or not, this is an opportunity for us to remember where we are, who we are, and that we are the same thing, and that we’ve gotta get through this together.

After returning, Glover shared similar thoughts to his neighborhood:

Some of us have never met before and you know whose fault that is? Ours. So, let’s choose to do this. Let’s be this more. Let’s be neighbors. I don’t know if you heard me say it, but God told us to love Him with all that we are and love our neighbors as ourselves. I love you.

This too went viral. And many people said, “He’s sharing gospel!”
Back to our previous question: is this the gospel? Yes and no.
It’s part of the gospel. But not the whole thing. And that’s okay.
It’s okay to “preach” part of gospel if it’s part of the whole thing.
And assuredly, Victor Glover knows and confesses the gospel.
Source: this Focus on the Family Daily Citizen article (April 26, 2023):

Glover is bold and candid about the importance of his Christian faith in his life – and how we all need to see ourselves as sinners in search of hope and help.

“No matter how long we’ve been in this, whether you’re a preacher, an elder, or a deacon, brand new in your faith walk, we all need to be growing he told a Texas church audience last year. “We have a sin nature, and we need Jesus. Jesus is that bridge that spans sin.”

Captain Barry “Butch” Wilmore retired from NASA in 2025. (NASA)

Several other astronauts publicly confess Jesus as Lord and Savior.
These include Col. Jeffrey Williams and General Charlie Duke.
In 2025, Captain Barry “Butch” Wilmore was stuck aboard the ISS.
He’s since retired and now enters the Christian conference circuit!

Captain Wilmore retired from NASA on August 6, 2025, after an illustrious career spanning 25 years. He feels called to use his experiences as an astronaut and his passion for astronomy to share the good news of God’s Word. He joined fellow astronauts Colonel Jeffrey Williams and General Charlie Duke in speaking at the Astronaut Encounter, where the three shared their personal testimonies and incredible stories.

Captain Barry Wilmore, Answers in Genesis bio, undated

We can’t imagine the responsibility of practicing faith in this space.
And yet we know just soaring about Earth declares God’s glory.
Commander Reid Wiseman shared a similar story on April 16:

When I got back on the on the ship—I’m not really a religious person—but there was just no other avenue for me to explain anything or to experience anything.

So I asked for the chaplain on the Navy ship to just come visit us for a minute, and when that man walked in, I’d never met him before in my life. But I saw the cross on his collar, and I just broke down in tears. It’s very hard to fully grasp what we just went through.

Not all astronauts are Christians. Not even if they speak of God.
But they’re doing amazing work in God’s world for His good Earth.
Jesus might say, “You are not far from the Kingdom” (Mark 12:34).
Future astronauts need space for Jesus* Already we see “moon joy” that atheism cannot logically justify.
Moreover, Space Race 2.0 isn’t just trying to beat the enemy.
This version truly seems to be built on more sustainable energy.
At the very least it’s built on Christianity-derived humanism.
And it’s based on hard work leading to merit and real achievement.
If it’s infected by false humanism and Sexualityism, it will collapse.
Navelgazeitis will blind us, unable to gaze upon God’s heavens.
Astronauts can’t live on that stuff. They’d never get off ground.
For their jobs, they can certainly subsist on Christian principles.
Those will get them to the heavens, to moonbases, and to Mars.
But to gain New Heaven and New Earth, we need Jesus personally!

Com stationTop question for listeners Have you met faithful Christians working with a space program?*

Next on Fantastical TruthYou’ve likely met some Christians who emphasize safety for children rather than preparing them for spiritual conflict. That’s why some more genteel-churchy responses to pop culture have said “it’s useless” or else “stay away” from stories like Harry Potter, Doom, or Dungeons and Dragons. So is it any wonder that a top-selling subgenre among young male readers is LitRPG, often with totally epic and jacked soldier good guys (maybe with mech suits) who slay evil aliens and demons?

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In spring 2026, social media platform X field-tested a new feature. Thanks to AI advances, with little fanfare, we now have universal translators. And suddenly the “curse of Babel” was temporarily lifted. Americans, Japanese, and Koreans began sharing their love of foods, patriotism, and fantastical stories. But for decades already, people around the world have found the wonder of creativity from overseas—manga, anime, games, and music. Why do we love these stories?[1. Photo by Branden Skeli on Unsplash.]

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Today every story can become localized* To recap: God made people originally to act as one human family.
Sin broke those relationships (Gen. 3), leading to global corruption.
God’s global Flood rebooted the world (Gen. 6-9). Generations later one humanity shared in evil. So He confused languages (Gen. 11).
People now live with distinct cultures, all human yet divided.
Pentecost showed a glorious reversal of this division (Acts 1-2).
Radio and internet also shortened com distances between nations.
Side effect: this makes us feel all crises are equally important to us.
But, great benefit: this allows us to share in one another’s stories.
Auto-translate is not new, but recently on X it became default.
These “universal translators” with AI are erasing language barriers.
Japanese and Americans bonded over shared food, music, culture.
And now Koreans and others are joining the conversations.
So far it’s wholesome and humanist (in the best possible way).
People love their cultures most, and like others who do the same.
Yet many fans have liked Japanese and Korean media for decades.
Fans love Japanese manga, anime, music* Zack spent much of his childhood spent inside Japanese-created fantasy worlds.
Stephen grew up enjoying cartoons that turned out to be anime:
The original 1980s Superbook biblical fiction series 1 and 2
The lesser-known New Testament-focused The Flying House
All voiced by the English dub cast of Kimba the White Lion
Must credit televangelist Pat Roberton’s original CBN station
They worked with Tatsunoko Production before anime was cool
Stephen has also grown to love Miyazaki films and newer anime.
Manga makes half of graphic novel sales. Western comics rarely crack top ten.
Lots more manga get produced into anime, so it’s a dual format appeal.
American comics tend to focus on superhero reboots from DC or Marvel.
Meanwhile, manga spans nearly every genre of fiction.
Manga focuses on adventure and achievement, rather than vanity.
Manga focused on craftsmanship and audience, not sociopolitical agendas.
Japan has much less influence Christian, yet creators address biblical themes.
Many of them are at least familiar with the Bible as literature.
So you’ll get a Chrisitan missionary-focused plot arc in Rurouni Kenshin
Or late-breaking messiah motifs and a “pastor” character in One Piece.
Fans also love K-dramas and K-pop* Korean-made fantastical stories are also taking the world by storm.
Both our wives enjoy a Korean original export: K-dramas.
Many of them are whole-hearted tropey, romantic-dramedy.
And many have fantastical elements, like modernized mythology.
Then of course there’s the music. Many K-pop artists love
Bands like Stray Kids and A-Teez overtly tribute Western fantasy.
Stray Kids teamed up with Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool for “Chick Chick Boom.”
A-Teez has a whole post-dystopian dimension-jumping narrative.
And recently, A-Teez’s song “NASA” got used in Artemis II
Korea has more evangelical Christian influence than Japan.
That’s likely why K-Pop Demon Hunters felt almost Christian.
Certainly the movie well portrayed fallen “demons” and human redemption.
The Holy Spirit can take the Gospel across any language barrier.
Many Christians think “speaking in tongues” was for apostles only, now fulfilled.
Other thinks it’s a “private prayer language,” not actual languages spoken today.
Either way, we have stories and technological tools that help bridge cultures.
May the Lord use this to spread the best fantastical stories across the world
May we share the gospel to “all tribes and peoples and languages” (Rev. 7:9).

Com stationTop question for listeners* What are your favorite fantastical stories from other lands?

Next on Fantastical TruthThe late Captain Jim Lovell aboard Apollo 8 read Genesis 1 from orbit on Christmas Day. Col. Buzz Aldrin aboard Apollo 11 took secret Communion on the Moon. Captain Butch Wilmore spent time on the International Space Station and will speak at next month’s Teach Them Diligently conference. More recently Captain Victor Glover aboard Artemis II, en route to a lunar flyby, shared pre-gospel thoughts about God’s wonderful creation of planet Earth. Why do so many astronauts and faithful staffers of NASA take their biblical beliefs out of this world?

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Doctor Who is dead and not regenerating any time soon.[1. Photo by Krists Luhaers on Unsplash.] Star Wars is suspended in the bacta tank. Star Trek is redirecting all power to life support. Meanwhile, Netflix struggles to sing life into Narnia, bad philosophers stone Harry Potter, and goblins threaten to overrun all that was good in Middle-earth. But there were some who resisted. When studios keep killing great stories, could fans bring resurrection?

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Star Trek and Star Wars are on life support Star Wars*—everyone blames Disney, Kathleen Kennedy, streaming.
And of course The Acolyte all but ended fan interest in that galaxy.
Much ink has been spilled about that, so we needn’t do a remake.
Star Trek—everyone blames Paramount, Alex Kurtzman, streaming.
Recently even Project Hail Mary author Andy Weir called Trek bad.
Weir later semi-apologized, but only for a seeming personal slight.
And this just in: J.J. Abrams’ company is downsizing and moving.
Fantasy lands get slain by corporate orcs Rings of Power* stumbles on, seeming to promise a “good orc” plot.
Andy Serkis directs The Hunt for Gollum, a dubious “side quest.”
Then came the big news that Stephen Colbert is writing another.
This second side-quest movie hints at revisiting Fellowship events.
As for Colbert, he’s arguably an agitator and has no fantasy credits.
Meanwhile, no news is bad news re. Netflix’s “rock ‘n’ roll” Narnia.
Some fans are more optimistic. We wish we could be, but cannot.
Solution: fight joyously for stories you love* “If you don’t like it, don’t watch it.” Fair. But it’s okay to criticize.
Avoid the traps of “blackpilled” cynicism we mentioned last week.
Great stories go on, launching from big studios or small creators.
Even that trailer from Amazon/MGM’s He-Man looks refreshing!
But don’t lose hope for big franchises either. They may yet return.
Next for Ryan Gosling? Star Wars: Starfighter from Shawn Levy.
New owners could restore Star Trek and DC. Let’s pray for them!

Com stationTop question for listeners* Which dead or dying franchise would you love to see return to life?

Next on Fantastical TruthIn March 2026, social media platform X field-tested a new feature. Thanks to AI advances, with little fanfare, we now have universal translators. And suddenly the “curse of Babel” was temporarily lifted. Americans and Japanese conversed with joy about tasty barbecue, patriotism, and the stories we love. But for decades already, people around the world have found the wonder of Japanese-made fiction—manga, anime, games, and beyond. Why do we love these stories?

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This month’s Project Hail Mary film is being praised as a fresh, thrilling sci-fi take that is wholesome and sincere. As expected, we’re seeing more fantastical fans cry out for stories that celebrate the human spirit. Why do we love these stories? And how do different fan trends, even across whole generations, keep swerving between positive portrayals and other stories that may be called “cynical”?

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Optimistic stories celebrate common grace* Stephen read the book back soon after its May 4, 2021, release.
Don’t miss the audiobook read by narrator Ray “Darkseid” Porter.
Right from the title, Project Hail Mary honors human will and spirit.
Weir publicly eschewed inserting “the message” (leftist politics).
It’s a deeply humanist story (and not necessarily in a bad way).
Brett McCracken from TGC wrote that the film honors biblical virtues and “celebrates friendship, sacrifice, and self-giving love.”
Some vote blue. Some red. But everyone loves Grace and Rocky.
Cynical stories show sin—and to a fault* In response, many fans are freshly condemning cynical stories.
These make a show of hopelessness, grimdark, nihilism, despair.
But there are fewer of these obvious cynical stories in pop culture.
Their problem isn’t “show sin at all.” Their problem is lack of virtue.
Do note that some popular “optimistic” stories are just posers.
They’re just as cynical about virtue, yet may offer false “syncerity.”
One can almost see the memos. They’re trying to have/eat cake.
Many great stories rightly reflect both* “Realistic” stories aren’t always cynical, and “colorful” stories aren’t always optimistic; this is defined more by ideas than appearance.
Earnest and optimistic stories can be noblebright and nobledark.
In fact, Project Hail Mary (book and film) mixes both of these.
Even God gets a friendly shoutout—a hint at the morality’s origin.
Spoiler: Ryland is no hero. He’s effectively assaulted. That’s dark.
But desperate times call for Grace. He becomes a hero. That’s light.
These stories defeat both forced “syncerity” and cynical tales.

Com stationTop question for listeners What do you love about Project Hail Mary* and optimistic stories?

Next on Fantastical TruthUh-oh. That big new trailer from that big studio just hit for that big fantasy franchise remake/reboot/sequel. It’s too big to fail! And then fail it does. They got the cast way wrong. They hired a bad writer. And they’re going to ruin everything we loved about the original. What’s worse? These big studios don’t seem to care. Do they? Or do some big studios have big secret reasons for “improving” fantasy franchises?

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“And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.” That’s what the Lord Jesus promised His disciples. How does His word, with support from fantastical fiction, help us prepare for armed conflicts across our real world?

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Quotes and notes

The main relevant fact admitted by all parties is that war is very disagreeable. The main contention urged as fact by Pacifists would be that wars always do more harm than good. How is one to find out whether this is true? It belongs to a class of historical generalisations which involve a comparison between the actual consequences of some actual event and a consequence which might have followed if that event had not occurred.

“Wars do no good” involves the proposition that if the Greeks had yielded to Xerxes and the Romans to Hannibal, the course of history ever since would have been perhaps better, but certainly no worse than it actually has been; that a Mediterranean world in which Carthaginian power succeeded Persian would have been at least as good and happy and as fruitful for all posterity as the actual Mediterranean world in which Roman power succeeded Greek.

My point is not that such an opinion seems to me overwhelmingly improbable. My point is that both opinions are merely speculative; there is no conceivable way of convincing a man of either.

C. S. Lewis, “Why Am I Not A Pacifist”

Great stories show us that war is hell. Answer to Stephen’s earlier question: all great stories need conflict*.
Without any conflict, no fights, battles, war, sin, we’d have no story.
(Side thought: without the Fall, fiction as we know it couldn’t exist.)
Yes, we do love stories that are so focused on war that the word is right in the title: Star Wars, World of Warcraft, Warhammer 40,000.
But it’s vital for stories to show conflict/war as somewhat realistic.
People die and do not return. Wounds hurt. War-“glory” is fleeting.
And of course, folks start or fight in wars for very corrupt reasons.
Stories also show wars can be necessary.* God Himself, as Author of the Story, allowed/planned for conflict.
The very existence of fiction reminds us conflict serves a purpose.
Folks uncomfortable with war often find ways to like these stories.
This might indicate that even they know conflict has some purpose.
Few critics would reasonably dispute (by faithful in-universe terms) the justifiable causes of the Federation, Fremen, or Men of Gondor.
Deep Christian traditions of “just war theory” often supports them.
Villains have many motives, but often can be stopped only by force.
Best of all, stories help us long for peace.* Having shown war as hell, but also necessary, stories can do more.
The best ones remind us that all conflict and war is temporary.
At our best, we as fans aren’t mercenaries who live for the fight.
We do want that redemptive, happy ending for heroes, already!
… At least, until the next war-story reminding us that it’s not yet.
Most stories hold this happy end always out of reach, off the page.
Others, chief among these the biblical Story, directly promise this.

Com stationTop question for listeners What are your favorite war-stories and why?*

Fans like Luke liked exploring pros/cons of adaptation:Our kids usually prefer books to their screen adaptations, but were very disappointed by the Mary Poppins books. The Disney adaptation took a lot of liberties, but it also made Poppins more likeable and wisely left out pagan elements of the story.

Next on Fantastical TruthThis month’s Project Hail Mary film is being praised as a fresh, thrilling sci-fi take that is wholesome and sincere. As expected, we’re seeing more fantastical fans cry out for stories that celebrate the human spirit. Why do we love these stories? And how do different fan trends, even across whole generations, keep swerving between positive portrayals and other stories that may be called “realistic” or else “cynical”?

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Adaptations. Sometimes we act like we don’t like them. But sometimes we do. And sometimes each new version of a story—book to film or TV show—changes the original but adds something new and amazing. Today we explore the pros and cons of adaptations.

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Firebreak by Kathy Tyers

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Mission update New at Lorehaven: review of The Star-Blessed* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

When the film was better than the book(?) Zack believes The Lord of the Rings* films are better than the books.
He also finds The Hunger Games films better than the books.
Both Dune films are more accessible than the novels, at least so far.
When film versions make changes yet win One Piece* condenses/adapts a lot from the original, yet is beloved.
The Three Body Problem series wonderfully adapts the book.
Next week’s Project Hail Mary is being hailed as a faithful version.
When remade versions beat earlier versions Avatar: The Last Airbender* has flaws yet beats the 2010 film.
12 Monkeys the show is far better than 12 Monkeys the movie.
Many of the DC and Marvel new versions beat earlier adaptations.

Com stationTop question for listeners

Which of your favorite film versions beat or match original books?

Next on Fantastical Truth“And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.” That’s what the Lord Jesus promised His disciples. How does His word, with support from fantastical fiction, help us prepare for armed conflicts across our real world?

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Kaizoku ou ni ore wa naru! Today around the world, millions of fans who love Japan’s hit manga/anime series, One Piece, are rejoicing for many reasons, including today’s release of the live-action series season 2 on Netflix. Why do so many fans love these comical, earnest adventures of Captain Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates?

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Firebreak by Kathy Tyers

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The Hole-Man by Dan Daetz

The Lorehaven Authorship

Mission update New at Lorehaven: our book quest into fantasy Embergold* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes The hit manga just reached 600 million, matching Superman * After 1,170+ chapters and nearly 30 years, creator Eiichiro Oda’s pirates-with-powers story is sailing toward its final arcs. * The popular anime is ending hiatus to resume in April. * And today Netflix is christening the live series Season 2, after 2023’s Season 1 happily broke the “anime to live-action curse.” * Oh, and this just in: last week Oda and crew made the meme come true. * He really did write down the answer to “what is the One Piece,” the treasure sought by every pirate. * He locked this in a chest, buried it deep in the sea, and initiated a great fan-pirate era. * But spoiler alert: I think I know the secret of the One Piece*. And by the end of this episode, I shall spell out my grand fan theory.

Mission update New at Lorehaven: our book quest into fantasy Embergold* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

The Mugiwara (Straw Hat) Pirates of One Piece, with friends from Fishman Island.

One Piece plots with deep heroic ambition.* Plot summary: Luffy sets his goal of becoming king of the pirates.
He recruits a crew with other goals, yet following him as captain.
Over many years and arcs, their goals all begin to come together.
It’s a celebration of labor, pain, reward, and growing to maturity.
So it’s like “follow your dream” but much longer, deeper, complex.
After all, dreams/goals lead to disloyalty, idolatry, and overwork.
One day I had to stop watching One Piece for good reason.
Why? I had been overworked and needed more rest than ambition.
Altogether it’s a reminder of the great adventure that’s often hard.
In a world of “you’re great as you are,” this is a worthy challenge.
One Piece recruits a nakama pirate crew.* And yet this story isn’t just about individuals with selfish interests.
Everyone in the Straw Hat pirate crew grows in their relationships.
It’s much like a “found family” but not without natural family bonds.
Some of them have deep childhood trauma and must find healing.
Villains also have tragic pasts, but are also evil and must go down.
Trauma is serious, death is permanent, and personal loss will sting.
Many fans (myself included) find this “wacky realism” refreshing.
Oda wisely avoids and mocks the idea of romance among the crew.
And also wisely, the live-action series reflects all of these themes.
That’s one reason One Piece LA broke the live-action-anime curse.
One Piece sails to fantastical new worlds.* Fans praise Oda’s worldbuilding that is indeed massively creative.
Fantasy meets sci-fi meets horror, in land, sky, and deep oceans.
Each island brings new crises and often many evil leaders to fight.
Thus, Luffy and the Straw Hats have toppled multiple dictatorships.
It’s all part of Luffy’s strong views of loyalty to friends and freedom.
And now the Straw Hat Jolly Roger flag appears in real
Some fans recoil from Oda’s art style, reflecting well in the anime.
Characters often have wacky proportions, heavy on caricature.
And alas, manga/anime is fond of “comedic” nudity/sexual imagery.
Yet with cautions, you can now enjoy this story in many art forms.

BONUS: has Stephen found the One Piece? Some fans believe the One Piece is more of a traditional treasure. * Others claim a metaphor, e.g. “the friends we made along the way.” * But I think the series has given us plenty of clues to identify it. * For the treasure chest, Oda wrote, “As for the One Piece, it is …” * If fans found the buried paper, they’d read: (continued in episode!)*

Com stationTop question for listeners* What’s your favorite crazy story with wild action and heroic heart?

Next on Fantastical TruthAdaptations. Sometimes we act like we don’t like them. But sometimes we do. And sometimes each new version of a story—book to film or TV show—changes the original but adds something new and amazing. So next week, we’ll explore the pros and cons of adaptation, whether it’s One Piece, or The Pendragon Cycle, or the latest superhero retelling.

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Space is a dangerous place. Even recently we learned that the entire Artemis program has been rebooted, adding more rockets and risks! In other worlds and other galaxies, “space” is full of human life, music, adventure, romance, and fantastical new worlds. Just in time for Firebreak, book 1 of the Firebird Interlude Trilogy, we’re joined by longtime science fiction novelist Kathy Tyers to explore how the best space operas sing through this teeming expanse.

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Firebreak by Kathy Tyers

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Mission update New at Lorehaven: Andromache* review, weekly reviews * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild * You’ll get notified of monthly events, like last week’s livestream.

Backstory: Kathy (Tyers) Gillin

Kathy Tyers sold her first novel, Firebird, to Bantam Spectra in 1986. Since its initial 1987 publication, it has been rereleased by Bethany House Publishers, Marcher Lord Press, and Enclave Publishing, and was followed by further Firebird-universe novels Fusion Fire and Crown of Fire. Kathy finished the Firebird series in 2011 and 2012 with Wind and Shadow and the messiah tale Daystar. Enclave Publishing has also re-released her early novels One Mind’s Eye, Shivering World (Christy Award winner, 2019), and Crystal Witness. Now she’s returning to the Firebird whorl for a new series of novels. The Firebird Interlude trilogy begins March 10 with the release of Firebreak. Kathy is also known for her Star Wars Expanded Universe novels—The Truce at Bakura and New Jedi Order: Balance Point. She lives in Montana with her husband William T. Gillin.

KathyTyers.com
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What are the origin stories of space opera? 1818: Mary Shelley’s first sci-fi-ish/horror novel Frankenstein*
1830: British author Percy Greg’s poetical Across the Zodiac
Late 19th century: the prolific Jules Verne, across Earth and space
Late 19th/early 20th century: H. G. Wells brings the humanism
Early 20th century: Edgar Rice Burroughs shares pulp adventure
Other written tales and film serials helped create early space opera
This tradition focused not just on big ideas, but big human stories
Without these tales, we might not have stories like Star Wars
And that’s one way that today’s guest learned she liked sci-fi
Why do today’s fans love space opera? Kathy Tyers has written harder science fiction, like Shivering World*.
Spaceships are cool, but many fans like human drama even more.
For example, the Firebird Series is set in a far future galactic Whorl.
Readers resonate with Lady Firebird and her husband Brennan.
This, by the way, marks a rare example of married-couple heroes.
Similarly, Star Wars has spaceships, but focuses on human heroes.
Christians also see cool ideas and tech as means to human ends.
Without our humanity, we become “minds of metal and wheels.”
Even the best Star Trek episodes well understood this reality.
What might be the future of space opera?* More about the Firebird Interlude series—titles, dates, speculation.
Coming this June, Kathy Tyers gives a keynote at Realm Makers.
Meanwhile, we may expect to March onward into big space opera.
Project Hail Mary, based on Andy Weir’s novel, gets early plaudits.
Next up, actor Ryan Gosling and director Shawn Levy’s Starfighter movie (set in the Star Wars universe) is receiving a new hope from fans.
People do want futuristic, human-centric science-accented drama.
And yet Christians see this not as simply “hope in the human spirit” but hope of redemption, for grace-filled humans and a future age.

Com stationTop question for listeners* What space opera stories help you sing in joyful gratitude?

Next on Fantastical TruthKaizoku ou ni ore wa naru! Today around the world, millions of fans who love Japan’s hit manga/anime series, One Piece, are rejoicing. First, because after 1,170+ chapters and nearly 30 years since 1997, creator Eiichiro Oda’s pirates-with-powers story is sailing toward its final arcs. Second, because the popular anime is following soon after, breaking hiatus to resume in April. And third, because on March 10, Netflix is christening the One Piece live-action series Season 2, after 2023’s Season 1 flagrantly and happily broke the “anime to live-action curse.” Why do fans (like Stephen himself) love these comical, earnest adventures of Captain Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates?

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People want transparency! Or do we? If nothing else, public calls for revealing government secrets raise a lot of ruckus, especially when the secrets in question seem to be covering up aliens. Zack is our UAP/UFO expert. Stephen is intrigued yet skeptical. We’re both all over last week’s headlines. One former president claimed he knows aliens are real. Then the current U.S. president said he would declassify files. Whatever happens next, why do people want disclosure so badly?

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Firebreak by Kathy Tyers

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Interregnum by J. A. Webb

Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

Mission update New reviews: For The Good of All and Andromache* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild * Writing that next great alien-invasion novel? Join the Authorship.

Quotes and notes* Armies of the Aliens series on Fantastical Truth

Disclosure may expose human loneliness.* This news could upend members of the alien fandom.
We could all discover there were no aliens after all.
Instead we might hear about human technology.
And we might suspect we’re alone in the universe.
Disclosures can upset our metaphysics* Disclosure of extraterrestrial life could upend religion.
Or we could discover the “aliens” are interdimensional.
Some writers believe consciousness rewrites our understanding of the universe.
Maybe the twist on the Fermi Paradox means humans actually arrived first.
Zack posted this response on X:

“I definitely believe that sinister interdimensional beings directed many religious texts. And that the Bible was given by an interdimensional being. Just one that is supreme to all the others, and good.”

Worst, disclosures may promote demons.* This too could upend society’s “respectable” materialism.
That notion explains elite seances and messages from “aliens.”
This would be biblical, but seeing this exposed could be shocking.
It might even mean some of powerful leaders are controlled by demons

Com stationTop question for listeners* If we get “disclosure” at all, what secrets do you expect to learn?

Autumn Grayson wrote a whole essay about ep. 298:

… In general, when it comes to people’s political posts, there are some things I dislike, and some things that would be good to stay away from. It’s certainly best if people say things that have more substance than just expressing outrage or disapproval, because well thought out engagement on a topic is better. But I do respect people’s freedom and autonomy to say what they want to. I’ll agree with it or disagree with it as I see fit. I’ll get something out of it and learn from it either way, but what I may learn is that the content creator is someone I would not want to communicate or collaborate with. Or, the content creator ends up being an example of what NOT to do.

Whatever people do, they should remember that they’re showing something of themselves to the audience, and people have to ask themselves if that is truly how they want to come across and communicate to others. It may feel good to voice outrage in the moment or gain social clout for being on what some people call ‘the right side of history’, but is it really accomplishing anything constructive? Is this really the kind of person the author wants to be?

Next on Fantastical TruthSpace is a dangerous place. Even recently we learned that Artemis II rocket has suffered another fuel system-related setback! But that’s real life. In other worlds and other galaxies, “space” is full of life, risk, adventure, romance, and fantastical new worlds. Just in time for Firebreak, book 1 of the Firebird Interlude Trilogy, we’re joined by longtime science fiction novelist Kathy Tyers to explore how the best Christian-made space operas sing through this teeming expanse.

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For most of their lives, Stephen and Zack have kept their eyes to the stars and wondering if NASA or anybody else will ever again get serious about launching ships up there.[1. Image credit: SpaceX on X.com.] Now it seems that moment is upon us. Lord willing, next month’s launch of Artemis II will drive new great leaps back to the Moon, not only to orbit or put down boots, but to put down roots. Meanwhile, private firms build reusable rockets and plan satellite networks while setting their sights on Mars. So what other science fictions will come true in reality? Join us to discern and celebrate the God-exalting glories of human spaceflight to faraway lands for this landmark 300th episode of Lorehaven’s Fantastical Truth.

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The Restitching of Camille DuLaine by Lindsay A. Franklin

Realm Makers 2026 Conference & Expo

Interregnum by J. A. Webb

Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

Mission update* New at Lorehaven: reviews on break this very busy week. * Last week brought a bot swarm and other technical nonsense. * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild. * Authors, want to talk real sci-fi and beyond? Join the Authorship.

Quotes and notes* 72. When Our World Groans Under Sin, Should Christians Support Space Flight? * 121. Will Humans Colonize the Cosmos Before Jesus Returns? * 157. Will We Get Superpowers After the Resurrection? * 252. What if Space Missionaries Fought the Secular State? | Above the Circle of Earth with E. Stephen Burnett * 253. How Do Classic Sci-Fi Novels Explore the Planet Mars? * 255. What Are Space Westerns? | After Moses with Michael F. Kane * 256. When Have Newer Christian Authors Explored Mars?

Today, every space mission starts on Earth A brief summary of spaceflight: Sputnik 1 satellite (Oct. 1957), Yuri Gagarin (April 1961 aboard Vostok 1), Alan Shephard first American (May 1961), John Glenn first to orbit (Feb. 1962 aboard Friendship 1*), 1960s moon race, moon landing (July 1969), six moon landings
1980s to early 2000s: Space Shuttle program, ISS, many others
Alas, disasters: 1986 Challenger explosion, 2003 Columbia disaster
Late 2000s to present: private companies brings new energy
Elon Musk: classic humanist, entrepreneur, controversial, mess
But a genius billionaire, anyway, and pioneer in new rocketry
Same with Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, whatever else you think of him
These and more are winning goals to make ships less expensive
SpaceX rockets can now reverse themselves to land on platforms
2024: Space X “mechazilla” arms caught a returning rocket
This month, NASA postponed the Artemis II launch until March.
Last week, SpaceX routinely launched a new crew to the ISS.
And finally, Elon Musk revealed he’s prioritizing lunar missions:

For those unaware, SpaceX has already shifted focus to building a self-growing city on the Moon, as we can potentially achieve that in less than 10 years, whereas Mars would take 20+ years.

The mission of SpaceX remains the same: extend consciousness and life as we know it to the stars.

It is only possible to travel to Mars when the planets align every 26 months (six month trip time), whereas we can launch to the Moon every 10 days (2 day trip time). This means we can iterate much faster to complete a Moon city than a Mars city.

That said, SpaceX will also strive to build a Mars city and begin doing so in about 5 to 7 years, but the overriding priority is securing the future of civilization and the Moon is faster.

In years, new rockets will reach the Moon Artemis I* (Nov. 2022) tested the Space Launch System.
Notably, this system is developed separately from reusable rockets.
Artemis II (March 2026?) will launch astronauts around the Moon.
The mission will last four days and orbit the Moon’s far side.
The names of these absolutely real, nonfictional astronauts are:
- Commander Reid Wiseman
- Pilot Victor Glover
- Mission specialist Christina Koch
- Mission specialist astronaut Jeremy Hansen (CSA)
As memes foretold, we hope they come back with superpowers.
Artemis III will be a real moon landing, first since Apollo 17 in 1972.
That mission may launch as early as 2028. No crew announced yet.
Axiom Space developed new super-upgraded spacesuits for this.
NASA identified possible nine landing sites, all near the South Pole.
That region has stable daylight/temperatures plus crater water ice.
All said, the first lunar bases could be south polar settlements.
Many speculators suggest future lunar manufacturing in this area.
NASA, Department of Energy to Develop Lunar Surface Reactor by 2030
Materials include water ice, lunar regolith, and other metals.
Musk wants to make AI satellites there and launch them into space.
Elon Musk Wants to Build an A.I. Satellite Factory on the Moon
Risks: extra radiation could drive habitats under protective layers.
You could shield with thick ceilings or else use lunar lava tubes.

Listen to our March 2025 podcast series: Martian Month.

In decades, mankind may land on Mars* In the recent past, Musk and others thought the Moon was jejune.
After all, we’ve already landed there. Where’s the fun in returning?
But now the Moon seems more accessible. Walk before you run.
Last year for ACE’s launch, we shared a series: Martian Month.
Unlike the Moon, Mars has atmosphere and daylight cycles.
It’s a little “warmer,” with slightly more radiation protection.
Also, Mars has less known surface ice but more carbon dioxide.
How to get there? You need to wait about once every two years.
Possible transport: nuclear-powered rockets, now in development.
NASA administrator Jared Isaacman: nuclear-electric propulsion?
6 Things You Should Know About Nuclear Thermal Propulsion
That may reduce travel time by 25 percent (from 6 to 4 months?).
Timing: a matter of decades, perhaps the 2030s at the earliest.
So yes, you may live to see this happen, yet likely not travel there.
Speculators/rocketeers see philosophical, humanitarian motives.
For the Christian, our motives for spaceflight are a bit different.
After all, God made humans to steward the Earth and maybe more.
Alas, sin interferes with our purpose and our very human nature.
We’re mortal. Space couldn’t have killed us before. Now it does.
Personally, I see humanity’s future with limited spaceflight at best.
Yet after Jesus returns and we get New everything, who knows?
Either way, with cautious optimism, Christians can rejoice at this.
It’s healthy to stop navel-gazing and look upward and onward.
And someday, yes, missionaries may come to the Moon and Mars.

Com stationTop question for listeners What big spaceflight news, past or future, is your favorite? * Will you watch the Artemis II* launch, currently set for early March?

Jeremiah Friedli remarked about episode 298:

Excellent podcast episode, Stephen! Thanks for tackling these issues from a sound and biblical perspective. I’m looking forward to part 2!

Next on Fantastical TruthThree hundred episodes down. Who knows how many to go? Whether you’ve just found the podcast or have been listening since January 2020, we’re grateful for your support of this journey to escape bad books and find the best Christian-made fantasy for Christ’s glory. Let’s continue to seek and find His fantastical truth!

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Last week your solo host, Stephen, shared a hot take: that some authors’ sudden hot takes on political topics add more heat than light. These cringe political posts distract from the author’s job and confuse fans, and some go further into sinful slanders. Now that Zack is back, let’s re-engage this topic as fans and explore hope for biblical unity. Without telling anyone to “stop with politics!” or missing real concerns, how can authors post better about those topics, if they post at all?

Episode sponsors

The Restitching of Camille DuLaine by Lindsay A. Franklin

Realm Makers 2026 Conference & Expo

Interregnum by J. A. Webb

Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

Mission update New at Lorehaven: The Restitching of Camille DuLaine* review. * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild * Authors: sign up for the Authorship as a Creator or Pro Novelist

Top recent celebrity political wins and fails* Last week, Stephen should have predicted Grammy Awards cringe.
He feels sympathy for Billy Eilish and others who just say stuff.
Some celebrities can get away with this because they’re Big.
Example 1: J.K. Rowling, who lives in a castle and everything.
Example 2: George Clooney, legacy, leftist, but moderate in tone.
Example 3: Conservative actors who find other (often niche) work.
Authors who feel tempted to this openness: are you Big like them?
It’s like going out to buy a $10,000 suit before you can afford this.
If not, the cringe political post isn’t an upgrade, but a downgrade.
Personally, Stephen doesn’t mind politically outspoken celebrities.
Those who do this out of seeming grace/surplus tend to win.
Those who do this out of seeming vengeance/poverty tend to lose.
Big tip here for aspiring authors: you must give more than you take.
Otherwise they look kinda desperate for attention, or else insincere.
Engaging your responses to episode 298Our own Guildmaster, Ticia Messing, wants a refuge:

I have several indie authors I read or recently subscribed to their newsletters who all took part in a join political statement over the weekend with the same general idea. It was clearly to win political points for their side, and it was clearly a “If you do not agree with me, you are wrong,” and reading it I felt dirty and used. Even the author who tried to be more circumspect in how she talked about it because it was still clear what she was talking about.

My problem is I come to their newsletters not to read about politics; it is my refuge from politics. I read them to find out about how their writing is going, a quick glimpse into their life, some book recommendations, and maybe a snippet of their upcoming book.

Instead, all of these newsletters had paragraphs about Political Issue.

Jason Huff seeks to challenge cringepost motives:

What is difficult about social media in general is that most posts about politics aren’t about determining a side or discussing a moral issue but virtue signaling. It doesn’t matter if the viewpoint is left, center, right, or even a pox on all the houses. Most of the time, political posts are subtly saying, “I am a good and moral person for speaking out on X issue.” This is not usually the direct and overt intention, but it’s still there on another level.

When I say virtue signaling, I’m not saying that they aren’t actually morally correct in their address, but that there usually isn’t a lot at stake in doing so. Most people live, work, and play with people much like them, and they post things their friend pool is going to agree with. And so, when posting anything political, the question has to be, “What is the reason to be posting this?” It’s usually not to inform, because I’d say anyone aware of news right now has heard about Minneapolis. It’s to give a viewpoint. But unless you live in that area, does it affect your daily life right now? Not so much. The stakes are small.

So when I see authors and other creatives I follow giving political opinions, I generally tune out. I’m not there for that. I’m more interested in how you’re living out that belief, whether helping a local legal refugee family or befriending your local police force or however that issue plays out in your everyday life.

Peter Schott wants to re-hinge certain friends:

Personally, I have a couple of acquaintances who I disagree with politically. On some things, we can just discuss and let it go. In others – the posts are just unhinged. I just mute/snooze the guy for 30 days.

There was someone else who just went off the deep end – almost everything posted was hateful, cussing, and such. That earned a permanent block. It was sad to see someone go that far off the beaten path.

I did have one friend who started calling his own friends Nazis and such because they disagreed with him on politics – maybe 10 years ago. I called him out on that as a Christian brother and he was able to realize that he’d gotten a little too far down the path and took a break (and backed off).

Janie Brooks feels betrayed by political cringeposts:

“When your favorite authors suddenly post hot takes about the latest controversial headlines or violent acts, how do you feel?”

Startled. Annoyed. Betrayed. Hurt. Saddened.

Startled because the author doesn’t usually throw their hat into the political fray.

Annoyed because there are so many more topics to discuss.

Annoyed because Instagram or Facebook is my escape from the constant barrage of never-ending political opinions and current events.

Betrayed because I thought I knew who they were. Betrayed because they’ve shown me a side of themselves that goes against how they’ve always acted.

Hurt because they’ve broken my trust. Hurt because my loyalty is hard to gain and I’ve been blindsided by their vitriol.

Saddened because there are so many other topics in which I agree with them, but now I am anathema because of my politics.

Your hosts’ own political-posting rulesE. Stephen Burnett’s top ten guidelines:1. Basically, don’t. Don’t post about politics.
But if you do, don’t suppose you’re “above politics.”
And discern what that term “politics” actually means.
Carefully curate post subjects based on deeper reasons.
Be timely, yet beware the PETs, or Political Emotion Traps.
Stick with big themes that support your mission and novels.
Avoid the great sins of slander and casting false judgments.
Always rejoice with the truth and do not spread false reports.
For lesser-known topics, do not meddle in quarrels not your own.
“Never be cruel, never be cowardly. Remember hate is always foolish, love is always wise. Always try to be nice, but never fail to be kind.” (Steven Moffat via the Twelfth Doctor, Doctor Who)

Zackary Russell’s social post standards:1. I don’t want to wait until I “make it big” to say the truth. 2. I don’t talk about or reply to the posts of politicians. 3. Certain cultural, moral, and spiritual topics will inevitably overlap with a certain politician. That’s ok. I won’t avoid those topics. 4. I do not have to comment on everything nor defend everything a politician says or does. That way lies madness. 5. I try to find people to agree with, but comment in a way that adds something new to the conversation. 6. I am much more focused on the world of ideas, because ultimately that’s what we are battling. Not the flesh and blood conveyors of those ideas. 7. There is significant overlap between the battle of ideas and shaping moral imagination through stories. Although the former is reactive whereas the latter is proactive. 8. I don’t believe in cultural pacifism, but I do pick my battles carefully. 9. I also recognize that God calls people to directly take part in the political sphere. Same as he gives other callings. I simply have a different calling as someone working in full-time ministry. 10. But I also reject the practice of some Christians who put their heads in the sand when it comes to certain hot-button topics.

Com stationTop question for listeners

How do authors gain and keep your trust with their social posts?

Next on Fantastical TruthFor most of our lives, Stephen and Zack have kept their eyes to the stars and wondering if NASA or anybody else will ever again get serious about launching ships up there. Now it seems that moment is upon us. Lord willing, next month’s launch of Artemis II will drive new great leaps back to the Moon, not only to orbit or put down boots, but to put down roots. Meanwhile, private firms build reusable rockets and plan satellite networks while setting their sights on Mars. So what other science fictions will come true in reality? Join us to discern and celebrate the God-exalting glories of human spaceflight to faraway lands for this landmark 300th episode of Lorehaven’s Fantastical Truth.

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Happy Groundhog Day.[1. Photo by Marino Linic on Unsplash.] Maybe in these last weeks you’ve seen this same story repeat: Your favorite Christian author usually posts about whimsical life updates, pet photos, or upcoming release dates. But now she or he is suddenly and very fervently posting about politics. Words get heated. Light dims. And unwise statements share disastrous brushfires instead of book delights. What should a reader to do? Call for a ban on all such topics? Block the blighter? Or maybe seek deeper wisdom?

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The Restitching of Camille DuLaine by Lindsay A. Franklin

Realm Makers 2026 Conference & Expo

Interregnum by J. A. Webb

Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

Mission update New at Lorehaven: authors, debate this in the Authorship! * New review: The Lost Chick* by Andrew K. Johnston * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Chapter 1: A personal concession stand The best time might have been during a cooler period (if existent). * But the next best time is now. Many fans are already considering it. * This topic is broader, focusing on Christian authors in all genres. * And too big a topic for one episode. We’re splitting this into two. * Sure, some authors may listen and take note, or maybe get upset. * But I’m speaking as a fan, and I know many fans who agree. * We grieve this inflammatory rhetoric among Christian fantasy fans. * And we don’t want to see relationships broken by nasty slanders. * Background: I’ve kept up with politics since before I could vote. * I’ve retconned my first election as Nov. 2000 (before I was 18). * Campus newspaper columns, a little overt activism here and there. * Anti-fans made a “Stephen would probably hate me” FB group. * Today I stay atop news, and more importantly the deeper issues. * And I do post about politics, so don’t hear me saying “don’t do it.” * But here at Lorehaven we are not* first about politics. Morality first.

A positive note: Stephen’s developing post rules Personally, I post about certain topics that are, I hope, limited. * My rules: biblical conviction, topically focused, open engagement. * Example: my Jan. 30 post on activist Don Lemon being arrested. * To me this one’s easy. The man joined a mob to invade a church. * I like the church. I don’t like bullies. And this topic relates to ACE*. * Besides, I don’t like when professing Christians abuse the Bible. * That includes people who impulsively see other believers as bad guys and impulsively see anyone “protesting” them as good guys. * This is an absolute non-starter. You’re slandering your own people. * Unfortunately this is a nasty effect of some “missional” Christians. * They care so much about “the world” that they step on family. * Even then, however, I may step wrong or distract from my focus. * In the next episode, we’ll talk about the positive side of posting. * We need common ground! That is why this topic calls for care. * Otherwise, here are my personal consequences. Others may vary. * If authors post badly about politics once, I’ll “snooze” their feeds. * If they keep it up, I assume they are radicalizing and mute them.

Chapter 2: Five cringe and corrosive ways Christian authors post about politics1. They’ve never before posted about these topics.* The post breaks a pattern of trust between an author and readers. * Such a comment on hot controversies looks oddly out of place. * It’s often motivated by something other than longstanding interest.

The post has nothing to do with the author’s work.* What does a fantasy writer have to do with immigration debates?
This can also break trust. Fans didn’t follow him for political takes.
Authors who now only post politics signal they’re “switching jobs.”
They claim the post ‘isn’t political’ but it jolly well is.* On the surface, the post may seem to advocate simple morality.
With any human debate over ethics and law, politics are a factor.
“This isn’t political” misunderstands what politics actually are.
Authors may not even appreciate what politics are.* Some who claim to “hate politics” just don’t like defending ideas.
They’d rather hit a “win button” and thereby become always right.
“Politics matter because policy matters because people matter!”
Some foolishly try bringing ‘just love’ to law fights.* God bless them, but these sensitive souls lead first with feelings.
They mean well, but forget the very real realities of laws and policy.
Christians do grace stuff and law stuff. Government is law stuff.

Chapter 3: Five slanderous and sinful ways Christian authors post about politics6. The author exposes ignorance about the issues.* Ignorance is no sin, but willful ignorance of facts is no excuse. * If you don’t like politics, this effectively seeks unearned authority. * If you don’t care for real laws, you’re just meddling (Prov. 26:17).

Some follow influencers who take bribes (Ex. 32:8).* For clarity, paid influencers can take actual cash for their posts.
Others trade in alternative currencies: EmoCoin and TrendBucks.
In either case, they’re being steered, and they may also steer you.
Some try to foreclose discussion and just be ‘right.’* This is another “win button” attempt, but this time more foolishly.
You can’t put on a jersey and enter the field without consequence.
It’s absurd, even laughable, to get upset at opposing team players.
Even worse, authors slander their spiritual family.* I have personally seen Christian authors falsely accuse others.
Big studios do this in macro against critical fans, and they fail hard!
This is sinful behavior, not to mention personally self-destructive.
Worst of all, some pronounce threats of Hell itself.* This is the greatest sin so far. It bears special direct condemnation.
You will not threaten “God’s judgment” on believers who disagree on secondary issues, like how the civil magistrate enforces law.
Such threats often reveal this is about personal hatred, not truth.

Com stationTop question for listeners When your favorite authors suddenly post hot takes about the latest controversial headlines or violent acts, how do you feel?*

Next on Fantastical TruthThis is a heated topic, necessarily so. Now as we move toward spring, let’s attempt a thaw. Lord willing, Zackary Russell will return here for an interactive discussion about how we as fans can hope better from our favorite authors. Do we expect them to “shut up and write”? Or can we hope for more thoughtful, gracious engagement that will not divide the body of Christ but will bring us better together even if we do disagree?

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Allegories. Christians love allegories! That’s a story element of having a person, place, or thing meant a a direct picture of something else, like Jesus or moral virtues. Some people think Jesus did this in parables, or C.S. Lewis did this with Narnia. Others point to Pilgrim’s Progress as a prime example. Even if they’re right about that, might some readers and authors focus so much on possible “allegories” that we miss great stories’ deeper meanings?

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Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

Mission update* New at Lorehaven: the Authorship has launched! * Listen to last week’s episode, or read the companion article. * Also, join the Guild by Saturday, Jan. 31 for Stephen’s livestream: How to Sell a Sci-Fi Novel in Just Twenty-Five Easy Years * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes

Allegory is a form of literature in which material figures represent immaterial virtues or vices. So in Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress, the character Timorous represents fear and Mr. Worldly Wiseman represents worldly wisdom. In our day, distinction of genres has been muddled a bit, so we tend to regard any story with symbolic elements in it as allegorical, but it was not always this way. C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia, for instance, are not allegories, even as often as they are referred to as such, and Lewis himself said as much.

The parables of Jesus could be said to contain allegorical elements, some more than others, but they are not strictly speaking themselves allegories. Jesus definitely deals in the world of virtues and vices, but he is most immediately interested in the world of human beings, their hearts, their words, and their deeds.

“How Not to Read the Parables,” Jared C. Wilson

The reason for the long history of the misinterpretation of the parables can be traced back to something Jesus himself said, as recorded in Mark 4:10–12. When asked about the purpose of parables, he seems to have suggested that they contained mysteries for those on the inside, while they hardened those on the outside. Because he then proceeded to “interpret” the parable of the sower in a semi-allegorical way, this was seen to give license to the hardening theory and endless allegorical interpretations. The parables were considered to be simple stories for those on the outside to whom the “real meanings,” the “mysteries,” were hidden; these belonged only to the church and could be uncovered by means of allegory.

How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth by Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart

Jesus’s parables aren’t just allegories* Sometimes the Lord interpreted His tales this way. For example, He says the seed is like His word and different soils are like different hearers (see Mark 4:13–20; Matthew 13:18–23; Luke 8:11–15).
But we may miss His main point if seek out the Secret Allegories.
No less top church fathers seem to have started this trend.
Famously he read many allegories into the Good Samaritan tale.
But the central point is to answer, “Who is my neighbor?”
At other times He simply said, “The kingdom of heaven is like…”
Meaning the whole parable says something about His kingdom.
What follows might be a prophecy of doom in the end times.
Or it might be an illustration of human behavior fit for His reign.
His parable may be about groups, individuals, morals, or salvation!
In either case, “he who has ears to hear, let him hear.”
Pilgrim’s Progress is allegory; Narnia is not* Many readers fondly remember John Bunyan’s classic quest tale.
The allegories start simple but accessible, especially for Puritans.
“Christian” is a Christian. “Evangelist” is. Apollyon is just a demon!
Then as we’ve previously explored, the allegories get complicated.
God, angels, the Bible, and Heaven are literal. So are good and evil.
At one point Moses himself cameos as a Law-enforcing antihero!
Altogether, Bunyan is both less and more creative than we thought.
However, we needn’t impose our view of Progress
For instance, many Christians learned to like Narnia by accepting the common belief that Lewis put “allegories” into his fantasy tale.
Stephen recalls one article around the movie release in 2005.
The writer meant well, but made up all kinds of silly “allegories.”
He believed the Pevensies are apostles and weapons are prayer.
Lewis himself specifically says outright that he did not do this.
Aslan isn’t an “allegory” for Jesus. He is Jesus, working his good will in many worlds across a fantastical barely glimpsed multiverse.
One’s view of “allegory” shouldn’t overturn clearly stated words.
Otherwise we’d all end up reading our own ideas into the Bible too!
Forced allegories may ruin some stories* Frankly, forcing allegories into stories risks rejecting their real truth.
With limited allegories, Jesus made sure His parables carry layers.
With mixed/complex allegories, Pilgrim’s Progress has aged well!
By avoiding direct allegories, Narnia can be subtle yet also overt.
And for new Christian-made fantasy, we can expect the same.
Kids and grown-ups can lose themselves in the story, not pulling it apart for useful parts, but being surprised by deeper meanings.
History shows this is a far more powerful way to read stories.
Instead of making them into Teaching Tools, as if stuff we make up could replace God’s word, stories help us see our own responses.
This is a far more human emphasis closer to imagination’s purpose.
And for new writers out there, we encourage going deeper.
Allegories look like ultimate meaning, but they’re really 101 level.
Example: any sword may evoke Ephesians 6. But it’s first a sword.
You don’t have to limit this idea to the word of God or even prayer.
Swords have more resonance in Scripture than just one text.
They’re tools of men and angels alike to defeat or restrain evil.
So don’t reduce the concrete object to some spiritual abstract.
Really this comes down to how we see the world. Do we expect a bodiless “spiritoid” eternity? Or one where matter itself matters?
Scripture promises a union of tangible New Earth and New Heaven.
Ultimately our stories must hearken to this reality. So study deep!

Com stationTop question for listeners* How do you look for deeper meanings in the Bible and stories?

Next on Fantastical TruthNext week is Groundhog Day, and we’ve already seen this story: Your favorite Christian author, who usually talks about book updates and inspirational life anecdotes, is suddenly posting about controversial political stuff. Should readers impose “no politics! no religion!” rules on story creators who feel strongly about a topic? Or might we expect more from authors posting or not posting hot takes?

How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth: Fourth Edition

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This podcast and other resources from Lorehaven focus on readers. That’s why, when aspiring writers post questions like, Where can I find an agent? or Will you look at my unpublished manuscript?, we don’t have much to share in that department. Until now. We’re journeying into new lands. This month we’re launching the Lorehaven Authorship within the Lorehaven Guild on Discord. Let’s explore how these new digital channels with pro livestreams and a fan-focused Book Festival will help writers cultivate their God-given imaginations.

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Mission update Discern the Top Three Negative Evangelical Myths about Popular Culture by E. Stephen Burnett * Gabriel’s Song*, new review by Sierra Simopoulos * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

How to join the Lorehaven AuthorshipHosted in the Lorehaven Guild, the Authorship offers three member levels:

Creative ($3.99/month). Fight for your calling. Enjoy livestreams with the pros. Discover why God created us to make stories for His glory and our joy.

Pro Novelist ($9.99/month). All benefits for Creative members, plus your own “booth” to seek new readers in our virtual fan-centered Book Festival!

Terraformer ($29.99/month). Get all above benefits plus more perks. Help invest in the future of fantastical fiction and expand the Lorehaven mission.

How to join? Subscribe free to Lorehaven. (Or in January 2026, just click here.) We’ll send you the Guild invitation. Once you’ve entered the Guild, look for the LOREHAVEN AUTHORSHIP channels. Then click one to see your options.

Pro tip: To avoid added fees, avoid signing up for the Authorship on Apple devices. Instead, use the desktop app or browser version.

Why our Author gives us imaginationsHow can writers sometimes fall into ‘writicism’ traps?* For a while, many Christian fantasy writers seemed hyperfocused.
Blogs and conferences focused mainly on the craft of writing.
And some complained about publishers not being interested.
Some did try these books. Only a few succeeded. How come?
My take for 20-ish years: not enough writer focus on our
Only in the last decade-ish have we gotten better at fan outreach.
We’ve also seen more writers get serious about their faith in Jesus.
They’ve earned trust with more readers and therefore succeed.

Do fantasy fans like writing more than other fans? Still, we’ve found that unlike other genres like biography, mystery, and historical romance, fantastical fans enjoy the craft of writing. * Some write fanfiction or other stories just for fun. * Others share their stories with friends or family. * Still others have aspirations for indie or traditional publication. * But writers must not hope publishers or fans will make them happy. * The best authors are already* happy, or joyous, for other reasons. * Maybe they’re simply really ambitious or gifted, as non-Christians. * Or maybe they’re Christians and find their joy/happiness in Christ.

How does fantastical creation give us joy in Jesus? In any case, if you’re a Christian, create stories for Christ’s glory! * God has called you to worship Him. Only in this can we be happy. * Worship* includes biblical practice of His gift of imagination. * That’s why we make things for His glory and for our happiness. * This joy can begins today, yet is also practice for eternal joy. * And this pursuit is our “chief end”—before all the challenges of plotting vs. pantsing, or whether to seek agents vs. indie-publish.

How will the Lorehaven Authorship help you find joy?

In the Authorship, published pros will train creatives in the craft of writing. However, we’ll also help you discover your purpose for your imagination. Why did God create you? And why do we feel this drive to create other stuff? If you sense the need to know this greater godly mission, welcome aboard!

How we grow His gifts into writing skillsHow has this biblical joy kept us going over decades?* To repeat: God gives us creative imagination to glorify Him.
So His divine purpose empowers us for creative challenges.
Personally, Stephen can testify that I’ve been renewed by this biblical mission for over 25 writing years of minor wins and major losses.
Even when the day job boss says, “We need to lay you off”?
Even when the editor says, “This project isn’t right for us?
Often Stephen has asked himself, “If I never got published as a ‘pro novelist,’ could I still write, if only for my joy in Christ?”

How will the Authorship help writers grow their craft?

I’ll put my 25+ years of creative struggles to work here. So will other pro novelists. This reflects our shared need for training. After all, you can’t go directly from “Let’s write!” to “Let’s change the world with our stories.” Don’t skip that big step in between—the step of Christians helping one another grow our creative gifts.

For example, later this month I’m hosting a fully public livestream:

How to Sell a Sci-Fi Novel in Just Twenty-Five Easy Years

Saturday, Jan. 31
6 p.m. Eastern (3 p.m. Pacific)
exclusively in the Guild

Future livestreams will be available for all Authorship members.

Apart from livestreams, we’ll share this training in every room of the Authorship—from C.S. Lewis’s three-stage view of story-making, to creative challenges like the “Christian” label, to the thorny issue of whether fictional characters can curse.

How will authors reach fans at the Book Festival?

Lorehaven has spent years connecting authors not just with other authors, but with faithful readers. So the Authorship will also feature the Lorehaven Book Festival.

Anyone in the free Guild can visit the Book Festival to browse virtual booths. Yet only members at the Pro Novelist level can host their own booth spaces. They can recruit readers, share links, or host Q&As—for any length of time.

How ‘terraformers’ can change this worldWhat’s the state of the Christian fantastical world?* We’d love to see more Christian-made novels in sci-fi and horror.
As reality-observant persons, however, we must admit the truth.
Teen/YA women’s fantasy continues to rule these worlds.
A day may come when all subgenres live in harmony and success.
But it is not this day. Bad publishers? No. Limited/quiet readership.

Why do we need not just writers, but “terraformers”? To fulfill this future, we need spaces to help these genres grow. * Lorehaven is generational. That’s why we call for terraforming*. * Maybe the Lord has blessed you with success you’d like to share. * Or maybe you’re not a writer, but you want to support writers. * You can become an Authorship Terraformer, sponsoring this work. * (Only after supporting family, local church, and faithful groups!)

How will the Authorship grow fantastical fiction?* Our ultimate purpose: offer even more resources from Lorehaven. * More library titles. More reviews. Digitally published book quests. * Perhaps even more episodes of this very podcast, shared to all. * Right now our main limitation is not willingness or skills, but time. * Thank the Lord, Lorehaven is a sponsor-supported digital mission! * Still, if He brought other supporters our way, we’d be glad to grow.

Com stationTop question for listeners If you write, which groups and mentors have helped you grow?*

Comment from @‌johnfollis2357 about episode 219:

I am forever grateful to these people for putting this wonderful drama together. I won’t spoil it much here, but there is a part in Glorious Appearing that had me convicted of my sin and my need for a savior several years ago. And as a result, I was converted to Christianity. A follower of Jesus Christ. God saved me. And I did not do anything to earn it. It is all his doing.

Next on Fantastical TruthImagine, if you will, that Christian Author X creates a futuristic tale in which cyborg detectives explore the boundaries of good and evil. That seems cool. But how does that compare with, say, Christian Author Y’s fantasy story in which verses and prayer are like magic, people and place names are anagrams for virtues, and the king represents Jesus Christ? Many fine Christians get confused by Author X’s story but get impressed by Author Y’s story—because, after all, it’s allegory! Is this kind of allegory, however, really a more “Christian” kind of story?

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“In one cataclysmic moment, millions around the globe disappear.” Jesus returned thirty years ago. Or rather, He sort of pre-returned, the warm-up act, if you will. Many faithful Christians believe in this kind of “rapture.” And in December 1995, two authors teamed up and used this idea to create the most successful biblical end-times thriller we’ve yet seen. In summer 2024 we overviewed the series. Yet now we’ll ask how that first Left Behind novel has aged, thirty years after its release.

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Mission update Review: Sons of Day and Night* by Mariposa Aristeo * Behold Our Top Most Anticipated New Books and Movies for 2026 * New article releases this Thursday: Discern the Top Three Negative Evangelical Myths about Popular Culture * Next week, Lord willing: we announce the Lorehaven Authorship * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notesFantastical Truth podcast series: Left Behind Legacy* 216. Why Do Christians Fight Over End-Times Prophecies? | E. Stephen Burnett vs Zackary Russell * 217. How Did Publishers Steward the Blockbuster Left Behind Series? | with Dan Balow * 218. How Did The Kids Get Left Behind? | with Chris Fabry * 219. How Did GAP Digital Turn Left Behind Into Cinematic Audio Drama? | with Todd Busteed * 220. How Did the ‘Left Behind’ Kids Audio Drama Speed-Run the Tribulation? | with Darby Kern * 221. How Did The Left Behind Series Enrapture Millions of Fans? | with Jerry B. Jenkins

Other Lorehaven resources on the Left Behind series Lorehaven.com search keyphrase: LEFT BEHIND * Left Behind* (1995) in the Lorehaven Library * From the archives, Stephen’s article series: Twelve Reasons the ‘Left Behind’ Series is Actually Awesome * How to Make a ‘Left Behind’ Streaming Series That’s Actually Awesome, Daniel Whyte IV

Secular endorsements of the Left Behind series

“This is the most successful Christian fiction series ever.”
―Publishers Weekly

“Combines Tom Clancy–like suspense with touches of romance, high-tech flash, and biblical references.”
―New York Times

“Call it what you like, the Left Behind series . . . now has a label its creators could have never predicted: blockbuster success.”
―Entertainment

Back cover of Left Behind, book 1, published in late 1995:

A novel of the Earth’s last days.

In one cataclysmic moment, millions around the globe disappear.

Vehicles, suddenly unmanned, careen out of control. People are terror stricken as loved ones vanish before their eyes.

In the midst of global chaos, airline captain Rayford Steele must search for his family, for answers, for truth. As devastating as the disappearances have been, the darkest days may lie ahead.

Left Behind proclaims gospel truth** Let’s start with the true. This book really wants to get you saved.
It’s a product of deep Biblical Christian desires to redeem souls.
Two authors (largely) make this work: the nonfiction author Tim LaHaye (The Act of Marriage) plus fiction author Jerry B. Jenkins.
Both men, however, are evangelicals who want the gospel spread.
So the novel shares a goal with others thriller based on possible futures: to tell a plot-driven story yet also provoke reader action.
At times the threat of sin does feel lesser than that of Antichrist.
All biblical Christians agree to repent and receive Jesus as Savior.
Yet not all biblical Christians agree with “pray the sinner’s prayer.”
And certainly only some Christians accept this end-times scenario.
The late LaHaye, and Jenkins as well, would surely agree with this.
Let readers, then, always discern what in the book is gospel truth and what are opinions (however deeply studied) about prophecy.
The story has unbelieving ‘good’ heroes Left Behind* is underrated for this—its protagonists are good guys.
Buck Williams has high ethics in his newsmagazine journalism.
Rayford Steele has been (until now) a loving husband and father.
Chloe Steele is a young college student free of remarkable sin.
And finally, Bruce Barnes is a decent pastor at his local church.
And yet … all these men lack Jesus, and they’re drifting into sin.
The novel’s opening spells out the lurking evil in one man’s heart:
“Rayford Steele’s mind was on a woman he’d never touched.”
It seems that Rayford’s family-man decency only lasts so long.
For the authors, then, the Rapture is as much a warning trumpet blast to his heart as it is a measure of mercy for existing Christians.
Many fans reacted strongly to this theme. How could such good people, even a pastor at a church, be left out of any pre–Second Coming event? Weren’t they by all accounts decent people?
Conversely, lest any Christians suppose unbelievers are all wanton sinners, Jenkins answers that no, we can root for these people.
Even without the label, Left Behind shows common grace in action.
Common grace can make you decent, but only Jesus will save you.
Left Behind stays functional and practical* This novel is written, by design, to be as widely read as possible.
Jerry B. Jenkins has spoken on this as the authors’ express goal.
This isn’t literary fiction. Chapters are short. The style is simple.
The original Left Behind is a rather thick book at 468 pages, but with large font face, wide margins, and lots of white space.
All these invite as many readers as possible; this story is populist.
Therefore, critics who fault the book for not meeting the goals they have migrated over from other books are revealing their ignorance or possibly elitism. Left Behind isn’t trying to be a timeless classic.
In fact, many of the original moments quickly felt very timebound.
Characters use dial-up modems; cell phones show up sporadically.
Later revised versions updated the technology. Yet as Jerry B. Jenkins told us in 2024, he’s content to leave the series as it is.
However, Left Behind also feels oddly distant from some moments.
Rayford’s finding of his vanished family is an emotional high point.
Other scenes, like a car bombing, get summarized at a distance.
This creates plot accessibility, but not so much character access.
With some exceptions, then, Left Behind values truth (and its own strong opinions) and goodness in substance over beauty in style.
Again, this was likely by intention on the creators’ part.
Sometimes what the prosaic style sacrifices for speed still creates deep emotions because the momentum draws in more readers.
Later volumes, like book 6, delved deeper into emotional journeys.
You feel (even in passing) the weight of hero deaths and struggles.
Ultimately, Left Behind offered a different kind of beauty—brisk and efficient pro writing, repetition, and popular accessibility, all of which set a course for this runaway successful late-1990s series.

Com stationTop questions for listeners Do you expect the Rapture at any moment? Or some other event? * What did you (or your parents?) think about the novel Left Behind*? * Email us podcast@lorehaven.com or tag as on the social medias.

Mandi W. wrote in reply to an unspecified episode:So I am not really a sci-fi/dystopian reader, but follow LH/Enclave for my veracious teen readers. My shocking love was The Chaos Grid and Crier Stone books from Lindsey Llewellyn. Well done!!! I actually read them each in 1 sitting and stayed up WAY too late doing so. ;o)

Lydia sent this about last week’s episode 294:Your point about sci-fi/fantastical exploration and dominion-taking being a huge part of our future in the new heavens & new earth reminds me of my favorite quote from Wayne Thomas Batson’s Door Within trilogy: the last chapter of the last book ends with the hero asking the God figure, the King, if there will be adventures in His kingdom. The King smiles and says, “More than you can possibly imagine.” That line changed my perspective on eternity completely. Several educational years later, I’m a postmillenial and eager for stories that can transcend time and inspire generations to take dominion of the world for Christ’s kingdom. Here’s to an increase of that in the years to come!

Next on Fantastical TruthThis podcast and other resources from Lorehaven focus on readers. That’s why, when aspiring writers send us questions like, Where can I find an agent? or Will you look at my unpublished manuscript?, we haven’t had much to share in that area. Until now. This month we launch the Lorehaven Authorship in the Lorehaven Guild on Discord. Let’s explore how these new digital discipleship channels, pro livestreams, and fan-focused Book Festival will help authors cultivate their God-given creative purpose.

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Last year brought many challenges for Christian fantasy fans. From flops at the theaters now threatened by streaming slop, to creators making more events for Christian storytelling, to the continued growth of biblical fiction as the top genre of Christian-made entertainment—let’s survey the top ten fantasy-related headlines from last year.

Episode sponsors

Edmund Spenser’s The Faerie Queen

The Case of the Heart Stone by Tulli Cole

Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

Mission update

New at Lorehaven: many features over the holidays!

We announced our new book quest in the Lorehaven Guild: Taliesin

Onscreen: ‘Stranger Things’ Season Five Gives Weight to Parents’ Fears, A. D. Sheehan

Onscreen: ‘David’ Creators Answer all Your Questions About the Animated Hit Movie, Josh Shepherd

Engage: Alleged ‘Rock and Roll’ Soundtrack Incites Suspicion of Netflix’s Narnia Movie, newcomer Sierra Simopoulos

Sierra Simopoulos also reviewed Sons of Day and Night

My own article: Why Christians Need Fantastical Stories

Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Stop by the homepage for many upgrades, especially the Library.

Soon: discover the Guild’s new wing, the Lorehaven Authorship.

Superheroes failed to save ailing cinema* Marvel movies, despite their strengths, all flopped at the box office.
Personally I did like Fantastic Four: First Steps, but didn’t love it.
Lorehaven folks were generally positive about some hero movies.
‘Captain America: Brave New World’ Labors to Save a Struggling MCU, Marian A. Jacobs
The Antiheroes of Thunderbolts* Preach to Marvel Itself, Daniel Whyte IV
‘Superman’ (2025) Will Make You Believe a Man Can Be Earnest, Josiah DeGraaf
However, audiences were tepid; none of these films broke even.
The greatest foe of superheroes? Flippancy. Next: lack of family.
MCU reached its apex with creators who at least feigned sincerity.
DC’s nobledark tone was winning fans, until the studio freaked out.
Disney’s ‘Snow White’ remake bombed* Sticking with cinemas, this one might be the year’s greatest fail.
‘Snow White’ (2025) Isn’t the Fairest of Adaptations, Parker J. Cole
I didn’t see it. Few people did. More people saw YouTube roasts.
This whole nonsense was an ugly reflection of three terrible trends ruining films: “woke” checkboxes, cynicism, and corporate gloss.
Fans abandoned legacy sci-fi franchises Once a Doctor Who* hero, Russell T. Davies has ruined that series.
Star Trek is adrift, desperately trying to hail imaginary “new fans.”
Of course, Star Wars keeps failing to please its own alienated fans.
The greatest culprit here: Godless, sex-obsessed progressivism.
One can’t correct from this without visibly rejecting “woke” politics.
K-Pop Demon Hunters owned the summer* We haven’t had a genuine pop-culture movie phenomenon in ages.
Then along comes this little giant animated movie on Netflix.
‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ Pits Singing Heroines vs. Monster Idols, Marian A. Jacobs
Kids sang catchy songs. Adults found deeper themes to explore.
YouTube reactions and covers on Instagram/TikTok exploded.
For the first time, Netflix had a true four-quadrant hit on its hands.
And dear Lord, may they learn only the right lessons from this, and not turn this into another streaming slop like so much other stuff.
‘Woke’ stories stepped back, yet persisted* 251. Could a Cultural ‘Vibe Shift’ Advance Christian-Made Fiction?
Due to political events we won’t detail, that agenda is on the wane.
At least the Sexualityism religion is seen as stale and unstable.
Many are still trying to figure out what, if any, ideas will replace it.
A. D. Sheehan had to critique Brandon Sanderson, a late arrival to the “woke” content scene: Brandon Sanderson’s New Fantasy ‘Wind and Truth’ Summons a Postmodern Cringestorm.
Oddly enough, we keep seeing Christian parents posting about the random books they find, after which they ask “Is it woke?”
Pro tip: yeah, it’s probably woke, especially with a cover like that.
By now we surely have enough Christian-made novels to help?
Corporate slop threatens human stories* 274. Why Shouldn’t AI-Generated Content Replace Human Stories?
This is partly about AI-generated slop, but not always.
Skeptical fans now refer to anything bad with “this looks AI.”
Why? Because the problem goes deeper than technology amok.
Long before AI, corporate studios began relying on algorithms.
I believe that’s when these stories began feeling less, well, human.
1. Can We Save Cinema from Sloppy Stories?
Instead of human hunches, stories get greenlit by metallic minds.
Reference: the short-lived run of Robert Zemekis mocap movies.
At first people express curiosity, but eventually they get bored.
Prediction: this too shall pass. We’ll see a lot of forced “firsts,” like “the first fully AI-generated movie.” They may even succeed. But the novelty will quickly wear off as it did before Mars Needs Moms.
Still, Christian creators must dig deeper to defend organic human stories with philosophies deeper than “AI destroys the Earth.”
Conservative TV is trying more fantasy We greatly anticipate the DailyWire+ show The Pendragon Cycle*.
Based on Stephen Lawhead’s novels, seven episodes drop Jan. 22.
Christian showrunner Jeremy Boreing actually stepped down from being Daily Wire co-CEO, it seems, to ensure finishing this series.
Political hot takes scarcely outlast the day. Great stories last long.
Alas, there’s the constantly controversial Magician’s Nephew movie
Marketing for this is dreadful, with publicly floated nonsense about an actress playing Aslan or the movie featuring “rock and roll.”
1. By Aslan’s Mane, is Netflix Really Casting a Lady as the Lion?
Meanwhile, platforms like Angel (run by LDS members, yet with freedom for Christians) released The Wingfeather Saga season 2.
We also saw a new angel-heroes show, Gabriel and the Guardians.
‘Gabriel and the Guardians’ Echoes a Golden Era of Saturday Morning Cartoons, Jenneth Leed
Alas, any sci-fi-ish efforts seem restricted to dystopian dramas.
We need higher budgets and risks to widen those genre limits.
Realm Makers unites Christian creators* 265. How Can We Shine the Gospel at the Realm Makers Expo?
1. How Do You Assemble a New Expo for Christian Fandoms? | with Scott Minor
Last year’s conference in Grand Rapids marked an experiment.
Can this organization blend creator training with a public expo?
Results were mixed-positive, mainly because of the venue choice.
For me, a debut sci-fi novelist, results may have skewed better.
Yet our primary audience must be Christian fans and families.
A semi-major downtown is difficult for these folks to access.
Next year’s new venue in St. Louis looks much more promising!
And it sounds like the public Expo will be easier for fans to access.
For Christian fantasy to grow, we must unite over common interest.
Yet this unity must be based on love for the true Jesus, our Author.
Biblical fiction is the top Christian genre* There’s no contest. Amish and historical fiction is dethroned.
Christian fantasy (mostly romantasy) remains confined to books.
Amazon’s ‘House of David’ Anoints an Intriguing Biblical Epic, Michael Allen
‘House of David’ Is Crowned King of Amazon Prime, Jenneth Leed
Fantasy for teen/YA women continues to rule the Christian-made fantastical worlds* This might well be the repeat headline from previous years.
Facts are facts. Teen girls and women outread everyone else.
When they like fantasy, they prefer female heroes/relationships.
Romantasy is the queen. And her handmaiden is royal drama.
1. What is ‘Romantasy’? | with Parker J. Cole
And the new princess on the block? Time-travel romance, for sure.
1. What is Time-Travel Romance? | Every Hour Until Then with Gabrielle Meyer
These books get the most attention on Instagram and elsewhere.
Is it true that “men don’t read”? Not necessarily. Men do read.
But they tend to read nonfiction about culture, theology, history.
And for fantastical fiction, these readers have unique expectations.
Christians here favor proven legacies, especially Lewis/Tolkien.
One can’t complain about the reality. Instead, meet the standard.
Frankly, that’s my hope for Above the Circle of Earth and beyond.
Of course I support teen/YA female-focused fantasy stories!
Yet that’s not my genre; it doesn’t help me, personally, grow in joy.
Surely there are more readers who favor other kinds of stories, maybe deeper, maybe in underdog genres like sci-fi and horror.
Christians must expect a true joyous sci-fi future under King Jesus.
And we uniquely understand supernatural realities/horror today.
But making new stories isn’t enough. We must cultivate readers.
That’s our mission at Lorehaven with our new mission statement: Escape bad books. Find the best Christian fantasy and sci-fi!
Watch this space for more about bad books, reader cultivation, and new resolutions to avoid scroll traps and level up your imagination.

Com stationTop question for listeners What was your top fantasy story or least-liked story in 2025?*

Next on Fantastical Truth“In one cataclysmic moment, millions around the world disappear.” Jesus returned thirty years ago. Or rather, He sort of pre-returned, the warm-up act, if you will. Many faithful Christians believe in this kind of “rapture.” And in December 1995, two authors teamed up and used this idea to create the most successful biblical end-times thriller we’ve yet seen. Last summer, we overviewed the series. Yet now we’ll ask how that first Left Behind novel has aged, thirty years after its release.

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Earlier this month, and just in time for Christmas, Focus on the Family made a fun announcement: an upcoming theatrical adaptation of Adventures in Odyssey. Dubbed Journey Into The Impossible, this 3D animated film will explore the town of Odyssey before the establishment of Whit’s End. What kinds of adventures will a young John Avery Whittaker enjoy? (This special episode was recorded live.)

Episode sponsors1. Edmund Spenser’s The Faerie Queen 2. A Faie Tale by Vince Mancuso 3. MYTH: Reign of the Immortals by J. F. Nickens

Mission update* ‘Stranger Things’ Season Five Gives Weight to Parents’ Fears, A. D. Sheehan * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes* ‘Adventures in Odyssey’ Goes to the Movies? , Lorehaven, Dec. 4

‘Adventures in Odyssey’ Goes to the Movies? Adventures in Odyssey is releasing a new animated feature film. * The working title is Journey into the Impossible. * It’s scheduled for a theatrical release in fall 2026. * Unlike previous video releases, this film is canon to the audio drama timeline. * It serves as a prequel set years before the main series. * The film will focus on a younger John Avery Whittaker (Whit), his wife Jenny, and their son Jason. * The movie will feature 3D animation stylized with a “2D storybook appearance.” * Creators say this will blend modern production quality with a nostalgic visual aesthetic. * The project is led by long-time Adventures in Odyssey* showrunner Dave Arnold. * It also features work by former Disney animator John Pomeroy, ensuring faithfulness to the show’s legacy. * A major goal of the film is to introduce the franchise to a new generation of families who may not be familiar with the 1,000+ episode audio drama. * We discuss Whit’s enduring appeal as a “positive patriarch.” * He is a wise, capable, and gentle male role model, contrasting with many father figures in modern media. * The creators are prioritizing a theatrical release to encourage families, churches, and homeschool groups to watch it together as a community event, rather than just streaming it individually.

Next on Fantastical Truth“In one cataclysmic moment, millions around the world disappear.” Jesus returned thirty years ago. Or rather, He sort of pre-returned, the warm-up act, if you will. Many faithful Christians believe in this kind of “rapture.” And in December 1995, two authors teamed up and used this idea to create the most successful biblical end-times thriller we’ve yet seen. Last summer, we looked back on the Left Behind series legacy. Yet now we’ll ask how that first Left Behind novel has aged, thirty years after its release.

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“We do not celebrate Christmas that way.” “We do not read those kinds of books.” “We ‘do not handle, do not taste, do not touch.’” We know our world is full of rebellion against God’s law. But many people overreact to moral license with a strict imposing of out-of-context or made-up laws. Faithful saints call this legalism, and Christian fantasy fans know plenty about this. When that influencer or relative rebukes your fantastical interest, how you can respond with grace and truth?

Episode sponsors1. Edmund Spenser’s The Faerie Queen 2. A Faie Tale by Vince Mancuso 3. MYTH: Reign of the Immortals by J. F. Nickens

Mission update New at Lorehaven: reviews of Ruthless and Shadowcast* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes* What Is Fiction Legalism?, E. Stephen Burnett * Even If We Like Fantasy and Sci-Fi, We Can Still Practice Accidental Legalism, Marian A. Jacobs * 50. Do Christians Really Need Fiction? | Fiction’s Chief End, part 1, Fantastical Truth podcast

Legalism denies the word of God itself.* We’ve heard and experienced many stories of judgy legalists.
Some are worse than others. Some comments are snide asides.
I heard one author’s work dismissed as “not in the real world.”
And yes, I’ve had people challenge Lewis, Tolkien, other stories.
Others rail more on social media against metal music or pageants.
But don’t confuse these false teachers with people they deceive.
Your family members may be confused and repeating memes.
In either case, work to overcome defensiveness or bad feelings.
Your firm foundation: legalism is anti-gospel; the Bible rejects it.
So study the word of God. Don’t let legalists ruin that for you!
Get into the gospel with the epistles, Romans, and other epistles.
Focus on texts like Romans 14, 1 Cor. 8-10, and all of Galatians.
Legalism denies the good of God’s gifts.* Moving to legalistic teachers, they often escape to fantasy worlds.
They like alternative realities where people don’t like/need stories.
You can (kindly) hit ’em with that little rejoinder, see how it works.
In either case, be sure you study up on God’s creative purpose.
Start in Genesis and take this text seriously: it’s history in poetry!
Pay special heed to the “cultural mandate” in Gen. 1:27-28.
Any ignorance of this call also overthrow God’s call to family.
So no one gets to do preaching or “ministry” minimization here!
From this text, learned theologians discern that God is and loves three virtues in no particular order: beauty, goodness, and truth.
God also loves to give good gifts to evil men and His children.
We get this truth directly from texts like Matt. 7:11 and James 1:17.
Sin ruin gifts? Not for studying, praying believers (1 Tim. 4:1-5).
And legalism denies God’s real world.* It is not Christianity, but gnosticism, to despise God’s creation.
Get your eschatology right, after all the charts and controversies.
It’s simply flawed to suggest we’re bound for a bodiless world.
Scripture constantly hints, then promises, a renewed planet Earth.
Heaven will come down here, rather than replacing all of our world.
Let’s get the end of Revelation right about New Heavens and New Earth, Christ’s eternal and holy kingdom that restores paradise!
For Stephen, this doctrine was key to debunking fiction legalism.
It helps me avoid the responses of depression or deconstruction.
On good days I feel sympathy and love for sincere fiction legalists.
With this solid foundation we can “swashbuckle” them with smiles.
We can affirm the need for truth and holiness, but show how it is in fact made-up laws, not God’s actual word, that forbid good gifts.
And we can show how these stories help us grow to be like Jesus.

Com stationTop question for listeners When did you confront a fiction legalist? How did you respond?*

tallgrant liked ep. 290 on YouTube:

Happy to see this covered, and even happier to get the other half in the Abolition of Man at least touched on!

The position Lewis takes about a very small ruling class who make decisions about all of morality for everyone who comes after very much aligns with the ultimate revealed mission of the N.I.C.E. Not to mention the issues being raised about where a potential soul can come from. I find his look at the outworking and consequences of post-modern thought and reasoning really intriguing, considering that this was all put to paper before the conclusion of the second world war and the mass dissemination of those ideas outside the academic world.

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Well, we recently talked about the first Chronicle of Narnia … the book! Yet many fans found or rediscovered this series thanks to the Disney-distributed, Walden Media–made film from director Andrew Adamson. Want to feel old? That was two decades ago! So now we shall look back at Narnia’s journey to the box office with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, which released twenty years ago on Dec. 9, 2005.

Episode sponsors1. Edmund Spenser’s The Faerie Queen 2. A Faie Tale by Vince Mancuso 3. MYTH: Reign of the Immortals by J. F. Nickens

Mission update New at Lorehaven: Netflix’s New ‘Frankenstein’ Reveals Why a Time-Shifted ‘Magician’s Nephew’ Film May Work , Daniel Whyte IV * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild * Coming in January: our book quest through Stephen Lawhead’s fantasy novel Taliesin*

Backstory: Mark Joseph

Mark Joseph is a music and film producer, author, columnist and founder of MJM Entertainment Group, a multi-faceted entertainment company with interests in film, publishing, music, TV production and film consulting.

Joseph got his start in television as an anchor for NHK and CNN’s The Entertainment Report in the 1990’s and his company MJM produced documentaries and supervised the international release of over a hundred albums by various pop and rock artists.

In addition to producing his own films, he oversees a marketing team that has marketed 75 films since 2001. From 2000-2005 he worked in development and marketing for Walden Media and Crusader Entertainment and oversaw a grassroots marketing team.

He has served as a producer on 15 films, including Max Rose starring Jerry Lewis, The Vessel starring Martin Sheen, America, Japan: Searching For The Dream, Frank vs. God and others.

Joseph is the author of four books including The Lion, The Professor & The Movies: Narnia’s Journey To The Big Screen and has been a regular contributor to publications like Forbes, The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, USA Today, The Huffington Post and FoxNews.com.

He is currently a senior columnist for Newsweek and hosts the podcast The Mark Joseph Show.

Most recently, he produced the film Reagan, starring Dennis Quaid and published the book Making REAGAN: A Memoir from the Producer of the REAGAN Movie. He also produced the film’s two soundtracks including songs from Bob Dylan, Clint Black, Gene Simmons of KISS, Tanya Tucker and others.

Mark and his wife Kara have six children and reside in Southern California.

YAF.org: Mark Joseph
Facebook: MJM Entertainment Group
Instagram: @markjoseph00
The Lion, The Professor & The Movies: Narnia’s Journey To The Big Screen
Making REAGAN: A Memoir from the Producer of the REAGAN Movie
Narnia’s journey from book to screen … The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe* got one TV animation (1979)
Then the story (plus two more) came to live-action BBC TV (1988)
Yet it was the Walden Media–made film that went bigger (2005)
That film released just twenty years ago in the U.S., Dec. 9, 2005
Mark Joseph’s role from those early days as Narnia pre-producer
… Through the winter of production … Stephen first learned this was official in a NY Times* ad Dec. 2003.
Early rumors included Disney aid (true), Kidman’s Witch (untrue).
Director: Andrew Adamson. Early casting. Scriptwriters and team.
In the afterglow of LOTR, Narnia also filmed much in New Zealand.
WETA Workshop did armor work. Other studios did visual effects.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe film released Dec. 9, 2005.

… And into the spring of fan acclaim* Teasers and trailers pleased fans, with only a few early hiccups.
Against a $180 million budget, earned $745 million worldwide.
Led to two sequels that earned less. Ended. Restart didn’t work.
Now we have Greta Gerwig starting with The Magician’s Nephew.
Any informal shared advice, constructive criticism, final memories.

Com stationTop question for listeners How did you first see The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe* (2005)?

Terri Hamilton recalls her Narnia origin tale (ep. 289):

I found the Narnia series in my school library when I was in 4th grade, and yes, they were in the proper order. It was a watershed moment for me. I bought myself a boxed set a few years later. Boy, did I look for portals! When I get into a discussion about the book order, I point out The Magician’s Nephew is a prequel, explaining the back story of the first book.

Next on Fantastical Truth“We do not celebrate Christmas that way.” “We do not read those kinds of books.” “We ‘do not handle, do not taste, do not touch.’” We know our world is full of rebellion against God’s law. But many people overreact to moral license with a strict imposing of out-of-context or made-up laws. Faithful saints call this legalism, and Christian fantasy fans know plenty about this. When that social-media pastor rebukes your favorite sci-fi, or that relative raises a judgy eyebrow at holiday dinners, how you can respond with grace, truth, and love for legalists?

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Long ago, before the great lion Aslan bounded onto bookshelves, C. S. Lewis wrote a science fiction novel set on mythological Mars. From there, the sequel carried Dr. Elwin Ransom by angels to the sister planet Venus. And from there … the Ransom/Cosmic/Space Trilogy descended to the dull world of corrupt college boards, inner-ring politics, and a secret technocracy bent on world domination with the aid of mad science and demons and everything. Eighty years after That Hideous Strength, we explore why C. S. Lewis created this earthbound and weird and wonderful pre-political supernatural thriller.

Episode sponsors1. Sons of Day and Night by Mariposa Aristeo 2. A Faie Tale by Vince Mancuso 3. Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

Mission update* New at Lorehaven: Josiah DeGraaf’s Sun Eater series article * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

That hideously obscure front cover image.

The temptations to wield inner rings* The Ransom Trilogy really includes all three fantastical genres.
It starts with sci-fi, continues to fantasy, ends in supernatural.
Stephen would have appreciated knowing this before this book!
Because that fact, plus the cover, will affect your expectations.
More than the other two, Hideous Strength feels a weird hybrid.
For instance, it begins on Earth and feels “grown-up,” even dull.
Who is Mark Studdock and Jane? Why do we care about them?
And where is Dr. Ransom and the creatures of books 1 and 2?
But here Lewis is addressing some deep and personal enemies.
One of them is the “inner ring” villain he writes about elsewhere.
Call this “the room where it happens,” that seat of power.
Right now some conspiracists claim to “expose” secret inner rings.
Yet more often they’re trying to make new “rings” themselves.
This “normal,” subtle threat marks the first real evil of the story.
Mark, a social-climbing sociologist, craves to reach this influence.
Then he gets there … and discovers it’s run by the greater threat.
A not-so-N.I.C.E. secular technocracy* Enter the National Institute for Co-ordinated Experiments.
It’s a social movement, an actual autocratic state bent on power.
They’re all about science, social engineering, efficiency, machines.
These theorists take the worst of evil ideologies and mix them up.
And for Lewis, this represents the worst corruptions of academia.
They destroy natural land like Saruman. Hijack history like IngSoc.
And they take over newspapers in plain sight like any petty tyrant.
Some have different aims/ideas, such as a truly scary revelation about what exactly has gone wrong with the sterility of the Moon.
Others are so poisoned by elitism that they “naturally” fall into evil.
That’s why we call this a pre-political story. Yes, it’s about politics and has overlapping theme, but is about the ideas beneath this.
N.I.C.E.’s goal: the subjugation of the human race to macrobes.
From here, Lewis finally explains the recurring visions of Jane Studdock (revealing the conspiracy) and a holy resistance order.
And, lest there be any doubt, we soon learn the worst threat of all.
Devils vs. power to demolish strongholds* At last, Dr. Ransom enters the story, leading a small diverse group.
He’s recruited Christian fellow academics, sure, but also one rather sympathetic skeptic, leading women, and working-class folks.
Their enemy is not just flesh and blood, but dark spiritual powers.
That’s why we call Hideous Strength a true supernatural thriller.
Astute readers will discern demonic activity behind the veil.
That’s no surprise for the author of The Screwtape Letters.
Yet the activity is more subtle, in allusion, not overt like Peretti.
Ultimately we discern the demons/humans spread their evil ideas in an area Lewis knew very well: the corruption of language.
Words, meanings, symbols, translations are vital to this story.
And perhaps it’s no surprise that the ultimate battle is won not by weapons or even direct intrusions of magic, but by word powers.
Clearly the author had in mind a certain Genesis 11 narrative!
By the end, one hero utters this divine judgment: “Qui Verbum Dei contempserunt, eis auferetur etiam verbum hominis.” (Kee vehr-boom Deh-ee kon-temp-seh-roont, eh-ees ow-feh-reh-toor eh-tee-ahm vehr-boom ho-mee-nees)
Translated: “They that have despised the word of God, from them shall the word of man also be taken away.”
These villains “have pulled down Deep Heaven onto their heads.”
Holy agents unite from the planets and the past to empower good.
Lewis also brings in, quite overtly, his love for medieval cosmology and the planetary influences that are crucial to this universe.
And now (with a reread) Stephen has experienced this story with delight like he had hoped, particularly with Lewis’s latter head-hopping and fun-poking at the expense of N.I.C.E.’s evildoers.
That Hideous Strength ends with startling eucatastrophe and celebration of biblical and based virtues, from cosmic to familial.
It’s no wonder the story has gained new fans in these similar days.

Com stationTop question for listeners Do you prefer demonic evil in fiction to be overt or subtle?*

Next on Fantastical TruthWell, we just talked about the first Chronicle of Narnia … the book! Yet many fans found or rediscovered this series thanks to the Disney-distributed, Walden Media–made film from director Andrew Adamson. Want to feel old? That was two decades ago! So now we shall look back at Narnia’s journey to the box office with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, which released twenty years ago on Dec. 9, 2005.

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“Suddenly Aslan came bounding into it.” That is how C. S. Lewis described the plot twist in his creative process for The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. “I don’t know where the Lion came from or why He came. But once He was there, He pulled the whole story together.” And in turn, this story has pulled together the imaginations of millions across the world. Now, 75 years after the first Chronicles of Narnia book was published, let’s explore how this changed fantasy forever.

Episode sponsors1. Sons of Day and Night by Mariposa Aristeo 2. A Faie Tale by Vince Mancuso 3. Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

Mission update New at Lorehaven: our retro review of Kathy Tyers’ Firebird* * The Sun Eater Series is the Modern Sci-Fi Epic Christians Have Been Awaiting, article by Josiah DeGraaf * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes: exploring Narnia The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe* review at Lorehaven * The Chronicles of Narnia series review at Lorehaven, March 2020 * Fantastical Truth episode 24. How Do We Defeat the Top Seven Myths about The Chronicles of Narnia? Part 1 * Episode 26. How Do We Defeat the Top Seven Myths about The Chronicles of Narnia? Part 2 * Episode 35. Did C. S. Lewis Say It’s ‘Pure Moonshine’ to Create Stories that Teach Christian Truth? * Episode 261. Why Do We Love The Magician’s Nephew?

Quotes and notes: the creation of Narnia

Some people seem to think that I began by asking myself how I could say something about Christianity to children; then fixed on the fairy tale as an instrument; then collected information about child-psychology and decided what age-group I’d write for; drew up a list of basic Christian truths and hammered out ‘allegories’ to embody them. This is all pure moonshine. I couldn’t write in that way at all. Everything began with images; a faun carrying an umbrella, a queen on a sledge, a magnificent lion. At first there wasn’t even anything Christian about them; that element pushed itself in of its own accord.

—C. S. Lewis, “Sometimes Fairy Stories May Say Best What’s To Be Said,” (1956)

All my seven Narnian books, and my three science-fiction books, began with seeing pictures in my head. At first they were not a story, just pictures. The Lion all began with a picture of a Faun carrying an umbrella and parcels in a snowy wood. This picture had been in my mind since I was about sixteen. Then one day, when I was about forty, I said to myself: ‘Let’s try to make a story about it.’

At first I had very little idea how the story would go. But then suddenly Aslan came bounding into it. I think I had been having a good many dreams of lions about that time. Apart from that, I don’t know where the Lion came from or why He came. But once He was there He pulled the whole story together, and soon He pulled the six other Narnian stories in after Him.

So you see that, in a sense, I know very little about how this story was born. That is, I don’t know where the pictures came from. And I don’t believe anyone knows exactly how he ‘makes things up’. Making up is a very mysterious thing. When you ‘have an idea’ could you tell anyone exactly how you thought of it?

—C. S. Lewis, “It All Began with a Picture,” 1960

[Narnia’]s beauties often get blunted or made lukewarm by the persistent myth spread by well-meaning readers, including many Christians, that the Narnia books are merely “allegorical.” (For example, one author even wrote that Professor Kirke’s mansion “is symbolic of the church” while the wardrobe “symbolizes the Bible.”)

But the “allegory” label ignores the stories’ true purpose according to Lewis, who insisted on calling his world a supposal. In one letter, Lewis wrote that his Narnia stories answered the question, “What might Christ become like if there really were a world like Narnia and He chose to be incarnate and die and rise again in that world as He actually has done in ours?” Lewis then concluded, “This is not allegory at all.”

Case closed. And Aslan be praised that it is closed, because if we turn these stories into mere allegory, we might end up using Narnia like a mere code or container pointing to “higher” ideals.

—The Chronicles of Narnia series review, Lorehaven, March 2020

Early 2000s edition, with cover based on the classic Pauline Baynes illustration.

The Lion …* Lewis took great care to model Aslan’s behavior on our true Lion.
When the kids hear of him, they have deep heartfelt responses.
(That’s why this is book 1, because Aslan must be a surprise to us.)
We love this hero because he’s “not a tame Lion, but he is good.”
And in this story, Aslan directly repeats the death and resurrection.
Lewis in another famous essay disclaims a popular Christian idea.
It goes like, “To make fantasy ‘Christian,’ it must be allegory.”
But the series isn’t allegory, and Lewis found deep meaning later.
Nor is Aslan a simple allegory for Jesus; in this world, Aslan is
In modern terms, imagine if Jesus were active in a “multiverse.”
Yes, it’s still imaginary. This idea wouldn’t work in serious theology.
That’s the beauty of fantasy; this needs no “allegory” for support.
… The Witch …* Somehow the White Witch has become nearly as famous as Aslan.
There’s of course the Snow Queen inspiration that ties her to myth.
Yet oddly, Lewis also references the myth of “Adam’s first wife.”
Beaver states this as fact, but we later learn her true origin.
Here, however, it’s enough to see her as the iconic evil ice queen.
Jadis is an overt inversion of the “nurturing” mother-figure.
In modern terms she may seem shallow—no motive, no backstory.
But as Lewis has said, the fairy tale’s beauty is partly in its brevity.
The White Witch is a Satanic-level foe who corrupts the seasons.
Lewis, at heart a medievalist, likely built Jovian motifs in the story.
That is, a kingly and joyous victory over forces of cold and death.
Remember, unlike the film, it is Aslan who wins, not the Pevensies.
(Yet major shoutouts go to Tilda Swinton for defining this villain!)
… and the Wardrobe* When Stephen was a kid, he read the Narnia series all wrong.
Those first four books’ “portal” moments felt most fascinating.
g., the wardrobe, the train station, the painting, the moor door.
There is a genuine thrill to the idea of stepping into other worlds.
Yet to this day, perhaps the Wardrobe is the best way into Narnia.
Children then as now can hide in real closets and deeply imagine.
If we grew up with Narnia, who hasn’t thought it could be true?
This seems a great gift of God, to micro-“believe” these fantasies.
Perhaps even Father Christmas, on some days, feels possibly real.
And then, when the fantasy ends, you must re-face the real world.
Lewis abruptly and almost tragically ends this story in England.
Later books expand the world and the deeper meanings of Narnia.

Com stationTop question for listeners How did you first read The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe?*

Next on Fantastical TruthLong ago, before the great lion Aslan bounded onto bookshelves, C. S. Lewis wrote a science fiction novel set on mythological Mars. From there his hero Dr. Elwin Ransom was carried by angels to the sister planet Venus. And from there … the Ransom/Cosmic/Space Trilogy descended to the dull world of college board meetings, inner-ring politics, and a secret technocratic society bent on world domination with the aid of mad science and demons and everything. Eighty years after That Hideous Strength was published, we explore why C. S. Lewis created this earthbound and weird and wonderful pre-political supernatural thriller.

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We still believe in cultural engagement. That’s the Christian mission to share our faith in the real world, seeking to win souls to Jesus. These souls naturally seek biblical influences in stories, songs, and beyond. So why do some believers claim that they want “cultural engagement” but then, when angry or manipulative anti-Christian critics engage us right back, throw up their hands and call for pietistic separation?

Episode sponsors1. Maxine Justice: Galactic Attorney by Daniel Schwabauer 2. A Faie Tale by Vince Mancuso 3. The Pop Culture Parent

Mission update New at Lorehaven: new book quest for A Study of Shattered Spells * Also new: reviews for Lord of Winter and Picked Up Pieces* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

How ‘cultural engagement’ started* Christians inherited a legacy of sheltering, e.g. “fundamentalism.”
That term also gets associated with “separation from the world.”
From there other Christians moved to broader “evangelicalism.”
That newer term is more about living in (but not of) the world.
Yet this “evangelicalism” had a particular missionary emphasis.
We wanted to adapt what’s good about the world for ourselves.
And we sought to make comfortable places for unbelievers.
This also get associated with “Christian versions” of stories/songs.
Now new generations want to reject the first, modify the second.
First, they rightly see sin and harm in cultural fundamentalism.
Second, they see greatness in many secular stories and songs.
Third, they want to make great stories/songs that aren’t terrible.
Results? Much content about genuinely bad church dysfunctions.
Many reviews and articles praising secular stories and songs.
And now, finally, Christian-made stories/songs that are great!
How ‘cultural engagement’ is going* Now that we’ve identified the graces, let’s talk about the idols.
(In this we follow two of the five engagement steps in TPCP.)
You see, some “engagement” folks forget that third creative stage.
Many got stuck in ranting (supposed) cultural fundamentalism.
Yes, our old pal Church Back Home Syndrome reappears here.
Others got stuck finding greatness in secular stories/songs.
They forgot the part about finding idols in those “cultural artifacts.”
They grew so positive that they failed to perceive the real world.
For instance, some ignore real hatreds of Christians in the world.
We’ve heard from big-name creators who encountered this.
They were as “winsome” as could be, but got soft-persecuted.
“Engagers” especially neglect finding ways to create new stuff.
Perhaps they miss the purpose of “glorifying/enjoying God.”
Without spilling tea, Stephen has seen this among some writers.
They wanted to “engage” “for nonbelievers” their favorite stuff.
So you got articles about Scorsese movies and art-house films.
English majors had a particular like for engaging non-pop culture.
But regarding actual pop culture, memes, politics, etc.? Ugh, no.
A few “engagers” ended up bitter, confused, even deconstructed.
Their view of culture is bad; their view of social issues is worse.
It’s like they expected “engagement” would not involve conflict.
But the very concept includes challenges—of worldview idols!
Any creative work will involve creative differences, e.g. conflict.
This may explain why some are reverting to cultural insularity.
We see the return of pietistic slogans about culture, esp. politics.
They speak much of their own discomfort, fear, “piety,” holiness.
And they call for separation from implied-bad “worlds” like politics.
More often than not, they create nothing new, only more critiques.
This is “fundamentalism” all over again—anti-cultural engagement.
How we do actual ‘cultural engagement’* Go back to the Bible’s best examples of this method by apostles.
Find these in the book of Acts, especially Acts chapter 17.
In this keystone text, Paul engages the culture of Athens.

So Paul, standing in the midst of the Areopagus, said: “Men of Athens, I perceive that in every way you are very religious. For as I passed along and observed the objects of your worship, I found also an altar with this inscription: ‘To the unknown god.’ What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you. The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything. And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, that they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, for

“‘In him we live and move and have our being’;

as even some of your own poets have said,

“‘For we are indeed his offspring.’

Being then God’s offspring, we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man. The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.”

Acts 17:22–31

Paul isn’t bothered by those bad Christians somewhere else.
He also doesn’t cite his “provoked” sense about idols (verse 16).
He’s deeply human but also disciplined and rational to engage.
Here in the public square, his ideas and challenges are welcome.
He praises the Athenians, with a hint of backhanded compliment.
Is there humor in his description of the “unknown god” altar?
Paul “appropriates” the phrase plus the words of Greek poets.
And he re-contextualizes them while assuming God’s word is true.
His goal is the specific conversion of heathen nonbelievers.
Paul does a lot of setup before later discussions continue.
This is an overt pre-evangelistic (Other chats vary.)
However, Paul isn’t in this cultural engagement “mode” all the time.
Other times it’s better to defend one’s own rights or get tough!
If even a top Gentile missionary does this, how much more do we?
Perhaps the apostle (also tentmaker and citizen) knew wisdom.
We’re not always pro missionaries or pastors. We have vocations.
Application: we don’t need less cultural engagement, but more.
We still believe in cultural engagement. These other guys do not!
Some of them, perhaps, wanted “engagement” as more of a cope.
Like their forebears, they find comfort in hating/loving “the world.”
That’s simply not a sustainable motive, nor is it a biblical motive.
It’ll send you right back to false pietism/bad “fundamentalism.”
And it’ll send us back to assume “everything is about evangelism.”
Remember again our chief end: not to defeat sin, and also not to impress the neighbors, but to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.
That’s why it’s so important to make new stories for that reason.
Thus our purpose here: we occasionally do a cultural engagement.
But more often we seek the stories under the secular stories.
And more often still, we share fantastical Christian-made stories.

Com stationTalena Winters, author of The Rise of Grigori series, wrote this in response to Episode 284. How Would Any Real Aliens Actually Invade Earth?:

Just a note about your recent episode about aliens, and the theory one of you proposed about “supernatural tech”. I actually agree with this…Besides what you mentioned about Elijah being caught up in a “chariot of fire,” there are some excellent and interesting passages in the non-canonical Book of Enoch that talk about a Watcher (one of the angels, not necessarily a fallen one, usually described as Uriel) who takes Enoch on a “tour of heaven” in a craft that sounds a lot like a flying ship or craft he describes as a cloud or as being made of spirit…I have a whole lot more I could say about this, with my beliefs being informed, in part, by the work of Michael Heiser. The point is, do I think these demons (and fallen Watchers, though most of them are trapped in the Abyss until judgement) have physical technology, and can they appear in physical form as aliens? Absolutely. Do I think they may be “leaking” technology to humans for our detriment? It absolutely fits their M.O.

Top question for listenersHow do you culturally engage secular stories and songs?Next on Fantastical Truth“Suddenly Aslan came bounding into it.” That is how C. S. Lewis described the plot twist in his creative process for The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. “I don’t know where the Lion came from or why He came. But once He was there, He pulled the whole story together.” And in turn, this story has pulled together the imaginations of millions across the world. Now, 75 years after the first Chronicles of Narnia book was published, let’s explore how this changed fantasy forever.

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To fight real monsters, we don’t need toxic empathy or the notion that exorcisms can resolve all demonic problems. Instead we start with the gospel of Jesus Christ that alone brings holiness. Yet how do we also train our imaginations with better stories to help us battle the beasts? Geoffrey Reiter returns to the studio to explore how great literature reflects God’s grace that helps us defeat the darkness.

Episode sponsors1. Maxine Justice: Galactic Attorney by Daniel Schwabauer 2. A Faie Tale by Vince Mancuso 3. Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

Mission update New at Lorehaven: reviews for Lord of Winter and Picked Up Pieces* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Backstory: Geoffrey Reiter

Geoffrey Reiter is Associate Chair of Arts and Sciences and Coordinator of Humanities at Lancaster Bible College. He is also an Associate Editor at the website Christ and Pop Culture, where he frequently writes about weird horror and dark fantasy. As a scholar of weird fiction, Reiter has published academic articles on such authors as H. P. Lovecraft, Arthur Machen, Bram Stoker, and Clark Ashton Smith. His poetry and fiction have previously appeared in Spectral Realms, StarLine, Psenumbra, ParABnormal, The Mythic Circle, 34 Orchard, and Black Wings VII. His book The Lime Kiln and Other Enchanted Spaces* was published by Hippocampus Press earlier this year.

Geoffrey Reiter at Christ and Pop Culture

The Lime Kiln and Other Enchanted Spaces from Amazon

The Lime Kiln and Other Enchanted Spaces from Hippocampus Press

Behold the monsters we may see in reality.* Last week critics were discussing when to “deplatform” monsters.
Today’s popular memes and franchise stories portray evil demons.
Others talk about human “monsters” who abuse and manipulate.
Some victims or bad counselors advise empathizing with real evil.
Others leap straight for exorcisms or aggressive countermeasures.
But secular folks may have limited success with combating evil.
As one Spider-Man 3 poster said, “The greatest battle lies within.”
First we must address the problem of our own monstrous hearts.
Our solution is true repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Only then can we truly begin fighting back against other monsters.

Listen to this episode from our first year.

How to fight back: the weapons of saints

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

—Romans 12:21
Our battle often depends on our unique callings and vocations.
For instance, some battle evils mainly in their families or churches.
Others may be called to move outward to engage the wider world.
If we fight back with sinful tools, we risk reversion to monsters.
This legacy haunts many Christians, but we needn’t be slaves to it.
Nor need we focus solely on the problems amongst ourselves.
Behind the gospel, we have many great tools to identify monsters.
An underrated tool: great stories that also happens to expose evil and illustrate biblical ways to defeat these monsters in reality.
Lately there’s grown a divide between folks who want to “win culture wars” and those who fancy literature. Why not both? A wise “culture warrior” needs reason and imagination. And a wise “literature scholar” must consider real-world applications.
These are among the “weapons” with “divine power to demolish strongholds” (2 Cor. 10:4) built by enemies who are not human.
Defeating the monsters of The Lime Kiln Geoffrey has previously joined us to explore Stoker’s Dracula*.
This brilliant book explores a monster of many potential elements: the suave seducer, the toxic male predator, the foreign conqueror.
Geoffrey’s new book The Lime Kiln and Other Enchanted Spaces collects “weird stories” and poems that feature various spooks such as ghosts, a killer robot, a vampire, and unpleasant beasties.
These aren’t just pulp favorites, but enduring imaginations.
Each monster reveals a particular kind of real-world analogue.
We find evil lurking in surprising places, challenging assumptions.
And we also find surprising heroes who survive or defeat evil.

Com stationTop question for listeners Which real monsters have you met, survived, or even defeated?*

Next on Fantastical TruthWe still believe in cultural engagement. That’s the Christian mission to share our faith in the real world, seeking to win souls to Jesus. These souls naturally seek biblical influences in stories, songs, and beyond. So let’s explore a growing challenge: why some believers claim that they want “cultural engagement” but then, when angry or manipulative anti-Christian critics engage us right back, effectively surrender and call for pietistic separation.

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Demons do bad things in the Bible and in the modern world. But how does a fallen spirit get around its limitations as an immaterial being? Meanwhile, how do creators of movies about demons get around the obvious budget limitations and need for showing not telling? Answer in both cases: demons “possess” people. Even in sci-fi the bad “entities” do this. But is this really the best word to use for how these Satanic agents can really influence, provoke, or oppress human beings?

Episode sponsors1. Audio-Epic.com: “1232” podcast 2. The Seekers series by J. A. Webb 3. Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

Mission update New at Lorehaven: review for Sara Ella’s Glass Across the Sea * Coming next: reviews for Lord of Winter and Picked Up Pieces* * Also new Onscreen: Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Cuts a Careful Line Between Evil and Redemption by A. D. Sheehan * Finally, @‌jenbooth.author won the Cultural Engagement Giveaway! * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

People love scary stories about demons.* Jesus and the apostles often cast demons out of their victims.
Acts has further accounts of what we call “demon possession.”
Rumors of demons in society or the wild forests persist in history.
Such supernatural narratives have long captured our imaginations.
In all history, the present, and in fiction, we often blame demons.
And we have many accounts and legends about possession.
Christians make whole ministries about “spiritual warfare.”
Frank E. Peretti memorably dramatized such encounters.
Even pop culture loves the image of priests and exorcisms.
Many movies, like Fallen with Denzel Washington, explore demons.
A more Christian example is Nefarious, with its possessed killer.
Even sci-fi gets in on the spooky, with tales of incorporeal entities
Many a Star Trek story hosted these critters from a creepy storm planet, alternate dimension, and/or mystery nebula of the week.
These inform our imaginations when we see horribly evil actions.
People will say, “that’s demonic” or even “that is demons’ work.”
Yet this habit goes way back in the Church—for good or ill.
‘Demon possession is an unfortunate term’

The term demon possession is an unfortunate term that has found its way into some English translations of the Bible but is not really reflected in the Greek text. The Greek New Testament can speak of people who “have a demon” (Matt. 11:18; Luke 7:33; 8:27; John 7:20; 8:48, 49, 52; 10:20), but it never uses language that suggests that a demon actually “possesses” someone.

The problem with the terms demon possession and demonized is that they give the nuance of such strong demonic influence that they seem to imply that the person who is under demonic attack has no choice but to succumb to it. They suggest that the person is unable any longer to exercise his or her will and is completely under the domination of the evil spirit. While this may have been true in extreme cases such as that of the Gerasene demoniac (see. Mark 5:1–20; note that after Jesus casts the demons out of him, he was then “in his right mind,” v. 15), it is certainly not true with many cases of demonic attack or conflict with demons in many people’s lives.

—Wayne Grudem’s Systematic Theology, p. 423
Grudem carefully reserves the term “demonized” for severe cases.
He adds that all 13 instances of that Greek term are in the Gospels.
Evil spirits also harass and “torment” people, like Saul (1 Sam. 14).
This does not mean they are possessed, but deeply afflicted.
Sam Storms’ Spiritual Warfare attributes a lot to demon influence.
He does not attempt to sort demons’ power “sets” or ability levels.
And he’s incurious about real issues like trauma and mental illness.
We don’t yet know how these issues may mix with demons’ work.
Stephen’s theory: demons may find troubled people less resistant.
In other words, demons target people vulnerable from this trauma.
That doesn’t mean these people “demonized” or “possessed.”
In fact, it means they need repentance and faith like anyone.
After that, demonic influence will be weakened if not eliminated.
Such is the testimony of many people who played with evil spirits.
When they called on Jesus, demons left and their healing began.
Spiritual warfare begins with our holiness.

Not All Evil and Sin is From Satan and Demons, but Some Is. If we think of the overall emphasis of the New Testament epistles, we realize that very little space is given to discussing demonic activity in the lives of believers or methods to resist and oppose such activity. The emphasis is on telling believers not to sin but to live lives of righteousness. For example, in 1 Corinthians, when there is a problem of “dissensions,” Paul does not tell the church to rebuke a spirit of dissension, but simply urges them to “agree” and “be united in the same mind and the same judgment” (1 Cor. 1:10).

—Grudem, p. 420
We love biblical exorcisms best because they’re absolutely true.
When our Lord drives out a demon, that critter is gone
A true Christian will still struggle with personal sin, trauma, illness.
Unrepentant sin could still lead to some influence by demons.
But nothing in Scripture indicates demons could “take over” us.

Since the term demon possessed is a misleading one to use in all cases, especially when referring to Christians, I would prefer to avoid it altogether. It seems better simply to recognize that there can be varying degrees of demonic attack or influence on people, even on Christians, and to leave it at that. In all cases the remedy will be the same anyway: rebuke the demon in the name of Jesus and command it to leave …

—Grudem, p. 424–425

At the same time, one wonders if we too have this same authority.
John MacArthur, no “spiritual warfare” guru, suggests we may not.
He tells of meeting a demon-oppressed girl with the classic signs.

I don’t think that demon was afraid of me humanly. I don’t have any human power to deal with demons. In fact, Jerry and I didn’t know what to do. We started trying to send the demons away. We sent them everywhere you could think of, the pit, the abyss, Phoenix, anywhere hot, you know. And the bottom…the bottom line is they didn’t go anywhere and so we just were praying and saying, “You know, this isn’t working, this casting out thing isn’t working. I’m not Jesus and we’re not apostles and we don’t have authority over that kingdom.” There’s only one way that this girl will ever be delivered and that is when Christ delivers her in the act of salvation. So we wrestled, literally physically trying to restrain her and get her in a chair and she was so exhausted physically and finally calmed down and we gave her the gospel. And she confessed her sin. I’ll never forget it, just really gushed out her sin before the Lord and embraced Jesus Christ and then it was just this calm that came everywhere. There was deliverance. Nothing to do with me, nothing to do with a formula, nothing to do with an exorcism, nothing to do with that at all, that…that is not what deals with demons. She needed to be delivered from the kingdom of darkness, you understand that? And she was. She was.

—John MacArthur sermon transcript from Grace to You, “Jesus’ Authority over Demons, Part 2,” July 16, 2000

Many saints, however, have told of their authority over demons.
Why didn’t that work with MacArthur? or in other situations?
And even Peretti acknowledges some demons can whoop saints.
Are these the “edge cases”? Or did MacArthur need more training?
Again, Stephen’s theory: mental illness may give demons an edge.
Christian cast exorcism! Demon used bipolar! Exorcism ineffective!
But if the Holy Spirit moves into the “house,” there’s no room left.
That’s why healing must begin with the gospel, which leads to our journey toward constant repentance, recovery from trauma, etc.
For those with mental illness, certain therapy and meds may help.
Either way, casting out demons won’t redeem a soul. Christ will.
Open discussion

Com stationTop question for listeners What real or fictional accounts of so-called “demon possession” or demonic oppression have you heard?*

Next on Fantastical TruthTo fight real monsters, we don’t need toxic empathy or the notion that exorcisms can resolve all demonic problems. Instead we start with the gospel of Jesus Christ that alone brings holiness. Yet how do we also train our imaginations with better stories to help us battle the beasts? Geoffrey Reiter returns to the studio to explore how great literature reflects God’s grace that helps us defeat the darkness.

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Many fans love the idea of demon hunters, whether they are Dr. Abraham Van Helsing’s warrior band, hyper-disciplined young shonen slayers, immortal elves, or K-pop stars. But in response to these righteous crusades, some fans find themselves defending the monsters. Are they really that bad? Shouldn’t we find ways to empathize with them? Today we explore the thorny problem of fans who won’t just defend but actually liken themselves to demons.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Glass Across the Sea by Sara Ella 2. The Seekers series by J. A. Webb 3. Cultural Engagement Giveaway: The Pop Culture Parent, On Magic and Miracles, and Above the Circle of Earth

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: Hideous Beauty, next: Glass Across the Sea* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand (demon hunters edition) If you’re new, we approach this topic from a biblical worldview. * “Demon” definitions get fuzzy when speaking in fantasy worlds. * Eastern portrayals get closer to neutral “spirits” or even like fae. * But that’s very different in Frieren*’s East-looks-West fantasy tale. * For more biblical explorations of demons, wait until next week’s ep.

Quotes and notes* “Killing Demons is Awesome, Actually,” Master Samwise on YouTube, Oct. 17, 2025 * When Can Deconstructionism Threaten Christian Fiction? | with Michael Young aka ‘Wokal Distance’, Lorehaven podcast, March 14, 2023

In some tales, ‘demons’ are neutral/broken. For this, we must* concede fictional redefinitions of “demons.”
That goes double for stories with moral, yet not Christian, beliefs.
Howl’s Moving Castle (book and film) describes a “fire demon.”
But in other tales, demons are more like corrupted human beings.
They only have a particular bent toward physical acting-out of evil.
Demon Slayer is one franchise that presents demons this way.
So does that smash hit of last summer, K-Pop Demon Hunters.
Even the Count Dracula gets some sympathy at the very end.
Basically they’re more like fantasy monsters, e.g. metahumans.
These by design help us reflect on our own monstrous natures.
But … that self-directed empathy must lead to desire for change.
And in many hero stories, demons must change or else be slain.
And in Frieren, demons are evil deceivers. Setup for Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End* manga/anime season 1.
This world is directly inspired by DnD/RPG tropes, the classic kind.
It’s a thoughtful/action sequel to the monomyth fantasy narrative.
What happens after mortals die and the noble elf-mage lives on?
Frieren trains a protege and recruits friends to take smaller quests.
Along the way, they encounter a main series villain: demons.
These demons look like humans but have supernatural powers.
Moreover, they’re anti-empathetic. No tragic backstory. No hope.
Unlike sinful humans or other villains, these can’t be redeemed.
All that they claim, weep about, or do at all is meant to fool you.
“Demons are simply monsters who have learned human speech.”
“For them, words are just a way of deceiving humans.”
This is much closer to the biblical picture of these fallen angels.
It’s also a challenge to constant broken/tragic villains in fiction.
But some fans actually identify with evil. In response, some fans took umbrage to Frieren*’s all-evil demons.
Many welcomed this as a helpful corrective to overdone tropes.
Others pushed back, looking for any “why couldn’t …?” loopholes.
One dismissed this with materialistic excuses, “proving” too much!
And some refused to acknowledge the existence of absolute evil.
To them, any “demon” must be “empathized” with, and that’s all.
Worst of all, some got in there and made this all about themselves.
They saw themselves in the story not as heroes but as demons.
Or they tried a hero-complex with a sociopolitical class evasion.
They projected into the story “the marginalized” or “minorities.”
A strange thought, this; most of us were just thinking of monsters.
But folks often use a “political issue” as performative cosplay.
The styling of one’s self as a “defender of oppressed” can make a fun distraction from realistic reflections of absolute evil.
Christians see this as more than resistance to trope subversion.
Such disputes reveal a terrible human affliction: hatred of truth.
It’s an instinctive and sinful flinching at being called at all “evil.”
Perhaps our Lord is using even “secular” stories to reflect His Law.
No, we are not demons. But unless we repent we’ll share their fate.
It would be just for God to destroy us. Thank Him for His mercy!

Com stationTop question for listeners Do you prefer fictional demons as broken or else totally evil?*

Next on Fantastical TruthDemons do bad things in the Bible and in the modern world. But how does a fallen spirit get around his limitations as an immaterial being? Meanwhile, how do creators of movies about demons get around the obvious budget limitations and need for showing not telling? Answer in both cases: demons “possess” people. Even in sci-fi the bad “entities” do this. But is this really the best word to use for how these Satanic agents can really influence, provoke, or oppress human beings?

View Details

Thanks to all the human drama of this year, you may have missed the news about even more professional military men been sharing testimonies about their witnessing unknown aerial phenomena blasting through the laws of physics. These sightings are not going away, forcing us to reckon with some truly potential scenarios. If aliens really invaded Earth, where from and how would they do it? And how do we discern these invasions and fight back?

Mission update* New at Lorehaven: weekly(ish!) reviews of the best Christian fantasy * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Listen to last year’s previous episode entry in our Armies of the Aliens series.

Quotes and notes: Armies of the Aliens series* 22. How Do Christians Discern UFO Accounts in Light of Scripture? * 47. Why Do Some People Long for Escape to a Galactic Community? * 63. Did God Create Aliens and Would Jesus Need to Save Them? * 73. Does the Pentagon’s UFO Report Expose Unidentified Aerial Phenomena? | with Colin Samul * 80. What if Satan is Planning Alien Conspiracies for the End Times? | The Jake Muller Adventures with Darby Kern * 119. Will Congress Disclose the UFOs Our Favorite Alien Stories Ask Us to Believe In? | with Colin Samul150. Is the U.S. Government Covering Up Spy Balloons or Alien Spaceships? | with James R. Hannibal * 175. Are the Aliens Liars, Lunatics, or Lords? * 235. What Are the Scariest Stories About Aliens Among Us?

Aliens ascend from Hell beneath us2. Devils descend from the sky above us3. Devils deceive us with mind invasionsCom stationTop question for listeners* From where do you think aliens could invade—above, below, or within?

Next on Fantastical TruthMany fans love demon hunters, whether they’re Dr. Van Helsing’s band of brothers, hyper-disciplined young shonen, immortal elves, or K-pop stars. But in response to these righteous crusades, many other fans find themselves defending demons. Are they really that bad? Shouldn’t we find ways to empathize with their plight? We will explore the thorny problem of fans who won’t just defend but actually liken themselves to demons.

View Details

How often does this happen to you? You’re a plain, ordinary, gorgeous heroine, who’s suddenly abducted by aliens and taken to Planet Gladiator Violence VI. There you encounter a bull-headed man with piercings in all his massive muscles, and various events ensue, and if we kept up this description the grown-ups would not let you listen to this podcast episode. And that’s probably the tamest version of what’s now called “romantasy.” These kinds of monster stories are winning legions of female fans. What manner of perversity is this?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Singularity by Shannon McDermott 2. The Seekers series by J. A. Webb 3. Cultural Engagement Giveaway: The Pop Culture Parent, On Magic and Miracles, and Above the Circle of Earth

Mission update New at Lorehaven: new Embergold review, Monster Month returns * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild * Our current book quest is This Present Darkness*

Quotes and notes* Lorehaven podcast ep. 149. Why Do Christian Fiction Fans Love So Much Romance? * Lorehaven podcast ep. 249. What is ‘Romantasy’? | with Parker J. Cole * Here Be Dragons: What Christians Need to Know About Romantasy, Kathryn Butler at The Gospel Coalition, Feb. 28, 2025 * Ep 1240 | TikTok’s Spicy Novels Are Warping Women’s Minds, Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey, Sept. 10, 2025

Backstory: Parker J. Cole

Onscreen writer Parker J. Cole is a USA Today Bestselling author of historical romance as well as a speaker, podcast host, and CEO of the podcast network PJC Media. As an author, Parker enjoys exploring history through the vehicle of romance. Her speaking topics focus on inspiration for aspiring authors. For over a decade, she has interviewed authors from all over the world via her podcast network. Consumed with a plethora of interests that keep her life busy, she lives in Detroit, Michigan. Visit her website at ParkerJCole.com.

Explore romantasy’s love and monsters* Review of the original better purposes of romantic fiction.
Overview of the hazards of romance (like escapism and sensuality).
Romance often hints at fantasy, and fantasy often includes romance.
Now we see the rise of a new genre nickname called “romantasy.”
These stories include the dark and lurid stuff we described earlier.
Yet many Christians do this wholesomely, such as perhaps Embergold.
Why real women chase the worst boys* Stephen recalls this trope in fiction (even comic books) and reality.
Harley Quinn, originally The Joker’s lover/victim, might be most famous.
Zack brought the news stories of women defending literal assassins.
For example, the assassin of the United Healthcare CEO in Dec. 2024.
Meanwhile, some fans aggressively and self-righteously defend porn.
Even a gentle presentation of “no spice” romantic fantasy angers them.
Parker J. Cole shares why this “bad boy” trope was already so popular.
Now it’s further evolved from monstrous men to actual monster-men.
Romans 1:22 may reflect this perversion involving images of beasts.
Verse 26 further describes “[relations] that are contrary to nature.”
How our Lord affirms/subverts this genre* In the real world, male/female relationships are so often dysfunctional.
Men behave passively, women want strength, yet also undergo abuse.
Or else either side confuses male strength for “abuse” and vice-versa.
Readers may crave to experience power and danger but in a “safe” way.
Christians must reflect Jesus in reality and fiction as absolutely powerful.
However, He is real, and He is not actually safe, but He is truly good.
We are (or were) literally dead slaves to sin, and Jesus sets us free.
In other words, all human beings start out as monsters loved by Him.
That means men and women are His captives or servants for good!
Yet our purpose goes beyond carnal indulgences, thrills, and dangers.
He sets us free to serve Him, join His Church, and await eternal joys.

Com stationTop question for listeners When have you seen real or fictional monsters actually redeemed?*

Next on Fantastical TruthIn all the wildness of this year, you may have missed a stunning bonus feature. Even more professional military men have been sharing testimonies on Capitol Hill about their witnessing unknown aerial phenomena blasting through the laws of physics. These sightings are not going away, forcing us to reckon with some truly potential scenarios. If aliens really invaded Earth, how would they do it? And how we discern these invasions and fight back?

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Distortionists in the real world corrupt the beautiful, good, and true.[1. Photo by Bree Anne on Unsplash.] Some individuals who fall into such a dark side might make themselves beyond repentance—that is, reprobate. We might call them “ghouls.” … And such were some of you. We wanted to talk about monsters today, and we’ll start next week. First, let’s turn from the darkness and into the light, keeping our eyes open for hazards as we head into an exciting, messy, promising season of … spiritual revival and renewal for the souls of men and women?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Singularity by Shannon McDermott 2. Cultural Engagement Giveaway: The Pop Culture Parent, On Magic and Miracles, and Above the Circle of Earth 3. The Tixie Chronicles by Jack Borden

Mission update New at Lorehaven: This Present Darkness* book quest * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Backstory: Bethel McGrew

Bethel McGrew has a doctorate in math and is a widely published freelance writer. Her work has appeared in First Things, National Review, The Spectator, and many other national and international outlets. Her Substack, Further Up, is one of the top paid newsletters in “Faith & Spirituality” on the platform. She has also contributed to two essay anthologies on Jordan Peterson. When not writing social criticism, she enjoys writing about literature, film, music, and history.

FurtherUp.net
Bethel McGrew on X: @‌BMcGrewvy
Life on the Silent Planet: Essays on Christian Living from C.S. Lewis’s Ransom Trilogy
WORLD Magazine (Oct. 2025): “A tragic vision of the world: Three books that shaped my thinking“
WORLD Opinions: “Shocked by evil: the surprising seekers going to church in the wake of Charlie Kirk’s murder“

Quotes and notes

“The salvation of a single soul is more important than the production or preservation of all the epics and tragedies in the world.”

—C. S. Lewis, “Christianity and Literature,” in Christian Reflections, page 10

Real revivals are genuinely exciting.* Don’t be cynics based on people trying to make Revival just happen.
What they do for man-centered pseudo-events, God does for real.
And the fact is: this revival (with renewal) has been developing a while.
Zack and I explored this in our episode about the cultural “vibe shift.”
Pastor Costi Hinn on a recent podcast discerned between revival for non-Christians and renewal for discouraged or low-energy Christians.
On a personal note, Stephen feels that sense of renewal this month.
This despite the real grief over great evil (and ghouls celebrating this).
Unlike previous efforts that brought mainly renewal, this one is revival.
However small or large, people are getting “Christ-curious” and more.
They’re reading Bible, going to church, posting tips and testimonies.
Moreover, wiser Christians are giving all the gospel, repentance too.
Stephen sees the fusion of cultural conservatism, early fundamentalistic revival fervor, and the best and simplest version of doctrinal precision.
When even the Secretary of State gets New Earth right, praise the Lord!

Listen to our episode 136 about keeping politics in their rightful place.

But even true revivals can get messy.* Previous revivals (or so-called revivals) often brought mixed results.
The Great Awakening was fused with colonial spirit and patriotism.
But the results were largely positive across generations in the U.S.
The “second great awakening” was dubious, with a lot of emotivism.
Billy Sunday blended evangelistic fervor with cultural legalism.
And yes, even the martyred Jim Elliot had some real pietism issues.
The Jesus Movement had odd personalities, cults, and dysfunction.
Stephen witnessed “Young, Restless, Reformed” who emphasized the centrality of the gospel yet largely divided on applications in culture.
And yet across all these messes, the Holy Spirit regenerated hearts.
This new movement will have a lot more flags than church influencers guessed. Naturally that’ll bring some hazards of Kingdom confusion.
But we remain bullish. Let’s not silence these risks, but talk them out.
It’s so healthy to air out our differences as Christians or “Christ-curious.”
How we respond to real revival or renewal* As we mentioned, avoid cynicism but also emotivism or legalism.
Look for faithfulness in preaching and Jesus Christ specifically exalted.
Beware generic God-talk, focus on morals, mantle-grabbers, and fiends.
But don’t confuse secondary disagreements for substantive critique.
Know that every time a new person confesses Christ, that’s a miracle!
Let the energy and messiness affect you personally in every calling.
If you’ve a day job, do it faithfully, even if you can’t do the “big stuff.”
Pray for renewal (as we should we doing) and extra energy for holiness.
Read your Bible (a good one). Go to church (a good one). And pray.
See every good thing as a means to Jesus Christ, not vice-versa.
Look for great art, music, and fantastical stories by Christian creators.
If you are one, recognize that these may be your own future readers!
Don’t skip the enthusiastic folks before you in search of a “modern audience.” That’s ungrateful for God’s work, and foolish marketing.
See these great gifts as a foretaste of eternity here on New Earth.

Com stationTop question for listeners When have you enjoyed true revival or renewal in your life or church?*

Caleb, a hero of the Lorehaven Guild, tells us:

I met Charlie [Kirk] on multiple occasions and listened to his daily show religiously. I have never met a more humble, gracious, generous person who consistently sought to elevate those around him.

The first time we met was in 2020 when my wife and I flew down to Phx from Fargo in order to attend the Protect the Count rally the week of the election. After the rally, we were able to tour the headquarters and met him there. We prayed with him, then he invited us to stay, bought us dinner and let us sit in the studio to watch the livestream. While we were there, we also met his pastor Rob McCoy who was coming on the show to speak.

Charlie and TPUSA so impressed us, we became supporting members and unofficial ambassadors. We attended every event we could. Anytime he saw us in the audience, he would call us out by name! I once corrected him on some Bible fact, and he was gracious, saying, “A wise man loves correction.”

Three weeks before the assassination, we saw him at event in South Carolina. We were invited into the green room backstage at the theater. He jumped up to welcome us, fondly introduced us to the host of the event as his “superfans,” complimented me on the email feedback that had sent him. Then, he put me on the spot. “What’s on your mind, today, Caleb?” I asked a question about how Christians should Biblically view the current physical nation of Israel. So, he suggested that myself and the hosting pastor, who was wearing an Israel/America flag pin, have a quick debate while he himself moderated. He supplied clarifying Bible verses and facts about the current Israeli state. He was very kind to elevate me rather than himself in that situation. He gave me a great compliment, “When Caleb speaks, I listen.”

Next on Fantastical TruthHow often does this happen? You’re a plain, ordinary, gorgeous heroine, who’s suddenly abducted by aliens and taken to Planet Gladiator Violence VI. There you encounter a bull-headed man with piercings in all his massive muscles, and events ensue, and if we kept up this description the grown-ups would not let you listen to this podcast. And that’s probably the tamest version of what’s now called “romantasy.” These kinds of monster stories are winning legions of female fans. What manner of perversity is this?

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Since the late 2000s, children and grownups have been getting drawn into their mobile devices and tablets. Before then, some were also hooked on TV and video games. Yet how could anyone create those devices without training their imaginations on great works of art? Carolyn Leiloglou, author of The Restorationists fantasy series, returns to help us recall the biblical purpose of art and stories, and how we help children learn to love them.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Beneath False Stars by S. D. Grimm 2. Outlaw Blood by Noah J. Matthews 3. The Tixie Chronicles by Jack Borden

Mission update New at Lorehaven: review of Augmented and more every Friday * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild * We’re finishing Echo Nova and moving to This Present Darkness*

Carolyn Leiloglou

Backstory: Carolyn Leiloglou

Carolyn Leiloglou (lay-LAW-glue) is the author of the middle grade fantasy novels Beneath the Swirling Sky and Between Flowers and Bones as well as the picture book Library’s Most Wanted. Carolyn is the granddaughter of art collectors, daughter of an art teacher, and homeschooling mom to four wildly creative kids. She’s an award-winning author whose poems and short stories have appeared in children’s magazines around the world, including Clubhouse Jr. Carolyn also reviews her favorite children’s books on her platform, House full of Bookworms. Her newest book, middle-grade fantasy Beyond the Far Horizon, released this month.

CarolynLeiloglou.com
TheRestorationists.com

Listen here to our first episode with Carolyn Leiloglou.

How to resist the digital screen takeover* Stephen recalls life before computers and certainly mobile devices.
Even TVs were guarded in his young age, with mixed-positive results.
Yet now screens are everywhere, creating dependency and addictions.
Overuse of devices can damage children’s developing imaginations.
Christians with other parents and leaders consider more screen rules.
Zack gives his kids “digital training wheels” at different ages to learn proper use of technology, rather than an all-or-nothing approach.
How books can restore kids’ imaginations* Great artworks remind us that God, not man, is our ultimate Creator.
They often reflect Jesus in their celebrations of sacrificial heroes.
And they echo the Holy Spirit who changes people to worship Him.
Such artworks also reflect God’s world, with beauties and challenge.
They also reflect people with all their complexities and simplicity.
Creating the Restorationists fantasy series* Quick origin recap of this series, starting with book 1’s 2023 release.
In book 1, Vincent finds he can leap into paintings to save their worlds.
Then in book 2, Vincent and his cousin Georgia fight the Distortionists.
Book 3 ends this trilogy, yet more might lie beyond that artful finale.
Final homeschooling and imagination-training tips from Carolyn.

Com stationTop question for listeners* When the distortionists attack, how do you fight for restoration?

Next on Fantastical TruthDistortionists in the real world corrupt the beautiful, good, and true. Some individuals who fall into such a dark side might make themselves beyond repentance—that is, reprobate. We might call them “ghouls.” Ultimately that is God’s decision, not ours. Yet we discern their actions and beliefs that are ghoulish. Nonfiction tells us this. Great stories, however, have a different purpose: to show this truth. Bethel McGrew returns to explore with us how Christian creatives can best combat the worldview ghouls among us.

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Last week, an assassin’s bullet ended the earthly life of Christian brother, husband, father, and popular political activist Charlie Kirk. Thousands were watching on the campus of Utah Valley University in the early afternoon of Sept. 10, 2025. Millions more prayed for an hour that Kirk would somehow survive. And then we mourned his death. Lorehaven is not a political group. But we do join in this public lamentation. And we look to fantastical stories of great villains and greater heroes to explore the bigger and pre-political questions beneath this tragedy: how we must fight evil in the world.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Beneath False Stars by S. D. Grimm 2. Outlaw Blood by Noah J. Matthews 3. The Tixie Chronicles by Jack Borden

Mission update New at Lorehaven: reviews of Suspended in the Stars and Augmented* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notesOur episodes about “culture war” vs. culture creation:* 40. How May Fantastic Stories Help Us See Politics in Biblical Perspective? * 136. How Did Politics Become King of Evangelical Popular Culture? * 178. Should We Weaponize Fantastical Stories To ‘Own the Libs’? * 188. Can Political Pundits Create Fantastical Stories? * 251. Could a Cultural ‘Vibe Shift’ Advance Christian-Made Fiction?

Psalm 7:12–17

If a man does not repent, God will whet his sword; he has bent and readied his bow;
he has prepared for him his deadly weapons, making his arrows fiery shafts.

Behold, the wicked man conceives evil and is pregnant with mischief and gives birth to lies.

He makes a pit, digging it out, and falls into the hole that he has made.

His mischief returns upon his own head, and on his own skull his violence descends.

I will give to the LORD the thanks due to his righteousness, and I will sing praise to the name of the LORD, the Most High.

Ecclesiastes 3:1–8 (ESV)

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
a time to kill, and a time to heal;
a time to break down, and a time to build up;
a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
a time to seek, and a time to lose;
a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
a time to tear, and a time to sew;
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
a time to love, and a time to hate;
a time for war, and a time for peace.

2 Corinthians 10:3–6 (ESV)

For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.

Screenshot from The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002).

‘Ride with me. Ride out and meet them.’* Our personalities influence how we initially respond to great tragedy.
Many people need a lot more time to heal, to weep, to embrace.
Yet others (myself included) want to grieve while charging forth.
Understand, the martial metaphors we use are not literal.
That’s not our place, as podcasters and fantastical fans.
But it may be your place in the vocation you’re given.
Some listening may literally enforce law and order.
You may be a soldier who literally rides out.
Either way, we may follow Aragorn’s call.
More importantly, we follow Christ.
‘For death and glory.’* But why do we ride? Some find more comfort in ideas dying for Christ.
Stephen resonates with this, but would much rather live for Christ.
If martyrdom occurs, that’s a bug, not a feature, yet redeemable.
Even risking one’s life for the good is better than killing others.
Théoden King, in the quote, is willing to risk his life in battle.
But make no mistake, the Rohirrim also want to slay orcs.
Here we use the “orcs” as bad ideas, not real persons.
But for the men of Rohan, their orc-slaying is justice.
Orcs are more like demons, irredeemable invaders.
They’re disordered, scavengers, and parasites.
Just like any evil that infects this good land.
What is glory? Only death worthy of song?
The Christian must hear, “God’s glory.”
‘For Rohan. For your people.’ We love how Aragorn does not correct* Theoden King, yet clarifies this.
Their ride forth is not for their own personal satisfaction and pride.
Instead they ride for their families, their people, their nation.
This good impulse is often slandered as “nationalism.”
It’s healthy patriotism. All of us should have it.
Patriotism overlaps with simple love and loyalty.
We should want all to love “their own” homes.
Brits most love Britain. Indians love India.
Americans should most love America.
And all should respect others’ loves.
Aragorn loves Gondor over Rohan.
And yet he also loves the Rohirrim.
Yes, loves can become disordered.
Better to risk this than shun love.
‘Forth Eorlingas!’ … ‘To the King!’* Finally, our “Rohan” is ancient and forever, all good places in one Home.
Someday all the saints will ride forth from the sky, led by the final Hero.
He will perfectly avenge all evil, pour out their blood over the Earth.
No one can question Him, change the subject, or excuse their evils.
He will damn to Hell the Dragon, the Beast, and the False Prophet.
And there everyone would also be doomed, apart from His grace.
Charlie Kirk honored Jesus as Lord and Savior, and so shall we all.
He wanted to build a world of heroes and good stories. Us too.
That’s why Lorehaven isn’t political. We are instead pre-political.
Now more than ever, we need fantastical hero stories to enjoy.

Revelation 19:11–21 (ESV)

Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself. He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God. And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.

Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and with a loud voice he called to all the birds that fly directly overhead, “Come, gather for the great supper of God, to eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of captains, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and their riders, and the flesh of all men, both free and slave, both small and great.” And I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies gathered to make war against him who was sitting on the horse and against his army. And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur. And the rest were slain by the sword that came from the mouth of him who was sitting on the horse, and all the birds were gorged with their flesh.

Com stationHow does tragic evil spur you to ride forth for action?Next on Fantastical TruthSince the late 2000s, children and grownups have been getting drawn into their mobile devices and tablets. Before then, some were also hooked on TV and video games. Yet how could anyone create those devices without training their imaginations on great works of art? Carolyn Leiloglou, author of The Restorationists fantasy series, returns to help us recall the biblical purpose of art and stories, and how we help children learn to love them.

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To become a hero following your God-given destiny, you’d best stay out of jail.[1. Photo by Saad Chaudhry on Unsplash.] Yet some Christian heroes do get caught in bad habits that keep them pacing in their tiny cells rather than practicing wise discipline as they go on adventures. How do Christian creators, in particular, fall into the traps of “cage stages”?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Beneath False Stars by S. D. Grimm 2. Outlaw Blood by Noah J. Matthews 3. The Tixie Chronicles by Jack Borden

Mission update New at Lorehaven: weekly reviews, Jenneth’s Light of the World* review * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand Some people and personalities are more prone to certain obsessions. * Here we make no judgment about motivations; these things happen. * Seeing someone in a “cage” should prompt pity, not anger or mockery. * Still, you may want to keep a distance from cages or* point the way out.

‘Everything is about my distinct doctrines’!* This is the original “cage stage,” referring to folks who find “Calvinism.”
That’s a nickname for a particular Christian view of God’s sovereignty.
It’s often tied with strong beliefs about local church leadership.
The late R. C. Sproul, himself a Reformed teacher, wrote in 2013:

My friend Michael Horton often comments on the phenomenon of “cage-stage Calvinism,” that strange malady that seems to afflict so many people who have just seen the truth of the Reformed doctrines of grace. We’ve all known one of these “cage-stage Calvinists.” Many of us were even one of them when we were first convinced of God’s sovereignty in salvation.

Cage-stage Calvinists are identifiable by their insistence on turning every discussion into an argument for limited atonement or for making it their personal mission to ensure everyone they know hears—often quite loudly—the truths of divine election. Now, having a zeal for the truth is always commendable. But a zeal for the truth that manifests itself in obnoxiousness won’t convince anyone of the biblical truth of Reformed theology. As many of us can attest from personal experience, it will actually push them away.[1. R. C. Sproul, “Escaping the ‘Cage Stage’,” Ligonier Ministries, Nov. 24, 2013.]

But we’ve known folks who found any new beliefs and became intense.
Sometimes it feels like a fandom, often associated with famous leaders.
In fact, you may have this story when you found Jesus or a new church.
But what feels new and thrilling to you may be dull or familiar to others.
It’s a challenge to preserve our enthusiasm while also respecting others.
‘Everything is about this fandom I found!’* This one covers a wide spectrum, including Christian doctrine fandoms.
But this also covers fantasy franchises, authors, worlds, games, hobbies.
Stephen recalls finding the amazing wide world of adventure anime.
Even back then he compared this growing awareness to a “cage stage.”
Others get trapped in talking about their feelings or personality types.
Some won’t stop talking about psychology or self-studying buzzwords.
Often this overlaps with a tendency to slap labels on all the things: not just story genres and tropes but also personality codes and conditions.
This is a form of creativity, yet also might require some self-”caging.”
That way we can better integrate the new fandom with all of reality.
‘Everything is about my political causes!’* Finally, this one may be the worst and the most annoying stage.
In our view, this certainly requires some “caging” until folks cool off.
Many creative Christians feel very deeply about issues like injustice.
When some recently discover, say, “Government is bad,” they go nuts.
They’re often vulnerable to alarmism, fake news, and emotive-ism.
Some merely dabble in “political” issues, or rather, ideological notions.
But if you’re in for a penny, you’re in for a pound. This stuff is totalizing.
And that’s why many talk more about politics than their creative work.
This, above all, marks a grave threat to faithful Christian creativity.
Sociopolitical causes are certainly part of Christians’ work in the world.
But if you talk about nothing else, even on socials, that’s a cage stage.
That goes double if you anger easily at legitimate policy disputes.
Allie Beth Stuckey says, “Politics matter because policies matter because people matter.”
So prove that you first value people, then policies, then the politics.
If you don’t value people, then you’re forgetting our human purpose.
With doctrines, fandoms, or politics, you’d confuse the means for ends.

Com stationTop question for listeners:* Which ‘cage stages’ have you managed to escape?

Next on Fantastical TruthSince the late 2000s, children and grownups have been getting drawn into their mobile devices and tablets. Before then, some were also hooked on TV and video games. Yet how could anyone create those devices without training their imaginations on great works of art? Carolyn Leiloglou, author of The Restorationists fantasy series, returns to help us recall the biblical purpose of art and stories, and how we help children learn to love them.

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Here in the U.S., we just had Labor Day, meant to mark the actions of hard-working Americans. And right now many Christian families honor the work of Christian heroes who are now at rest, such as pastor John MacArthur and Focus on the Family founder Dr. James Dobson. Many fantastical stories wouldn’t be here without faithful Christians. When they pass on, and people discuss and debate their legacies, how can we best honor their labors?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Beneath False Stars by S. D. Grimm 2. Outlaw Blood by Noah J. Matthews 3. The Tixie Chronicles by Jack Borden

Mission update Lorehaven new reviews: The Heart of the King and Beneath False Stars* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes “John MacArthur, Fiery Preacher and Culture Warrior, Dies at 86,” Ruth Graham at The New York Times, July 15, 2025 * “James Dobson Was My Horror, and Yours,” Sarah Jones at New York* Magazine, Aug. 27, 2025 (only six days after Dobson’s Aug. 21 death)

Naiveté is not a trait to be cultivated in our children. Prudishness is foolish immaturity. It leaves our children gullible and vulnerable. The naïve are the easiest targets for the seductive wiles of temptation. Throughout the book of Proverbs, the naïve (“simple” in many translations) are held up as negative examples. It is a grave mistake to think of our children as little angels who need to be handled delicately so they don’t get corrupted. Rather, they are corrupt little sinners who need to be led to righteousness.

“Treating the Symptoms, Not the Sin,” John MacArthur sermon dated May 8, 2015

It began as an experiment. In 1986 Dr. James Dobson of Focus on the Family wanted to produce a high-quality drama series for the radio. He hoped that it would appeal to Christians looking for alternatives to Saturday morning cartoons or simply families in search of wholesome entertainment. Steve Harris and Phil Lollar, the show’s creators, brainstormed what the series could be. They decided that it should be set in a small town (called Odyssey) somewhere in the Midwest and hearken to the golden age of radio without sounding dated.

In 1987, a 13-week test series was aired on the Focus on the Family broadcast. It was called Family Portraits and chronicled the lives and times of Odyssey residents — including John Whittaker and a special “soda shop and discovery emporium” called Whit’s End.

Audience response was so favorable that Focus went one step further and created the weekly radio program that would eventually be called Adventures in Odyssey.

“The History of Adventures in Odyssey,” WhitsEnd.org, undated article now archived

We love ‘small’ and ‘big’ Christian heroes* Big heroes take big risks to meet big needs during big moments.
They’re truly multi-talented, often skilled with speaking and writing.
Best of all, despite their flaws, they truly love our Lord and Savior, Jesus.
Our Lord uses few “big” heroes to benefit many churches and believers.
Example: big heroes of the Bible, reflected in many fantastical heroes.
Even better, He uses leagues of “small” heroes to build up communities.
Example: side characters of Scripture (unnamed?), and fantastical NPCs.
Yet we may also debate heroes’ legacies.* This is less expected after quietly faithful or lesser-known Christians die.
During grief, funerals, and mourning, negative responses are less public.
That’s less so with big Christian heroes who often get criticized outright.
Critics say that MacArthur and Dobson both had blind spots at best.
But some go further, accusing them of enabling bad sins against them.
Some blame popular Christians for not preventing abuse or hypocrisy.
Effectively, “If you had not been here, I would have never suffered this.”
How can we best discuss heroes’ legacies?* Like Harry Potter with Prof. Dumbledore, we grow by discerning nuance.
Stephen suggests honest loyalty with Christian heroes, similar to Harry.
We admit blind spots and flaws; we do not expect leaders to be God.
We wisely recognize that God alone is good, and He uses flawed men.
The same is true of flawed yet faithful Christian individuals who pass on.
Obituaries could acknowledge controversies about popular Christians.
Yet wiser obits leave wider discussions for later, theme-based content.

Com stationTop question for listeners Who was the last “big” or “small” hero whose death you grieved?*

Next on Fantastical TruthHeroes are born (in God’s view!) yet also built (in man’s view!). To become a hero following your God-given destiny, you’d best stay out of jail. Yet some Christian heroes do get caught in bad habits that keep them pacing in their tiny cells rather than practicing wise discipline as they go on adventures. How do Christian creators, in particular, fall into the traps of “cage stages”?

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So many books, so little time, space, and money. Many fans love collecting physical copies of their favorite stories, often so much that they run out of bookshelf space. (Stephen and Zack are in this situation!) Now that we have audiobook and digital copies, isn’t book collection a waste of resources?

Episode sponsors1. Oasis Family Media presents “1232” dramatic audio podcast 2. The Waymaker’s Foresight by Dan Megill 3. The Pop Culture Parent by Ted Turnau, E. Stephen Burnett, Dr. Jared Moore

Mission update New at Lorehaven: reviews for The Heart of the King and Beneath False Stars* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concessions:* This is about culture in general, not Christian families or homeschoolers. * Not focused on this episode about the recent trends of books that are turning away prospective male readers.

Physical books make a wise investment.* Judas Iscariot, kinda: “These books could have been sold and the money given to the poor.”
Reading a book is more work than watching a movie or enjoying some other form of entertainment, so people have high expectations. And too many books have disappointed, browbeat, or lectured them. Many people are right to be skeptical that a book will be worth their money.
“We’re basically after Joe’s beer money, and Joe likes his beer, so you better make sure that what you give him is at least as pleasurable to him as having his six-pack of beer would be.” — Jerry Pournelle
You can always make more money, though. And more importantly, you can make a book budget. There’s also the library.
Another concern is that reading books, especially speculative fiction, will not help us get the jobs that make enough money.
But every job requires communication and people skills, and this is a skill best learned through a novel.
“According to the neuroscientist Maryanne Wolf, so-called deep reading—sustained immersion in a text—stimulates a number of valuable mental habits, including critical thinking and self-reflection, in ways that skimming or reading in short bursts does not.”

Zackary Russell’s central bookshelf, as of August 2025

Physical books really should take up space.* Why own physical books when you can erase any “carbon footprint” they would take up by owning them digitally?
People who move frequently—for work, ministry, or personal reasons—might find that owning a large physical collection challenging.
Even at my daughter’s college, the first floor of the library is a computer lab. The book stacks are in the basement.
Digital books can go in your pocket and you can read them any time you have a spare moment. But of course, you can do a million other things on your phone.
Space is more limited but you can usually find room for a new bookshelf or else hang a new shelf or two.
Bookstagram and BookTok and “Shelfies” are a thing because people like beautiful physical items.
Holding a physical book, especially without any digital devices within reach, helps you more fully immerse yourself in the story.
You also remember things more easily from a physical book reading experience.
Physical books are well worth your time.* This is harder to address, because you can never get back any time that is spent.
I certainly didn’t read all the books assigned in high school English class.
But do you berate yourself for spending time remembering the past or imagining the future?
Or trying to understand someone else?
Or picturing a potential course of action?
These are all things the imagination helps with, and we train our imagination through fiction. We can’t simply impart life skills or decision-making criteria. We learn those best through stories. Even the book of Proverbs uses stories.
“Being bored has become unnatural.” This is the real blight of our time. Smartphones have given us a constant ache for a dopamine rush. And if you’re just reading a book for pleasure, why not read things on social media for pleasure?
The real problem is the FOMO from everything digital media offers us.
Maybe new laws like Texas cell phone ban will reverse this.

Com stationTop question for listeners Will you share with us pictures of your physical book collection?*

The Adaptation Stationmaster commented on ep. 276:Real rainbows in nature have lovely, soft, delicate colors. The rainbow flag looks tacky by comparison.

Next on Fantastical TruthHere in the U.S., we’re about to have Labor Day, meant to mark the actions of hard-working Americans. And right now many Christian families honor the work of Christian heroes who are now at rest, such as pastor John MacArthur and Focus on the Family founder Dr. James Dobson. Many fantastical stories wouldn’t be here without leaders like this. When they pass on, and people discuss and debate their ministries, how can we best honor their labors?

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Over summer and school seasons alike, many Christian parents want books for their kids that don’t have things like “Agenda” or “Wokeness.”[1. Photo by Steve Johnson on Unsplash.] But in our zeal to keep bad, poisonous content out of books, might we miss our children’s more important need to enjoy good, nutritious content in our fantastical fiction?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Winter’s Chill by Morgan L. Busse 2. The Waymaker’s Foresight by Dan Megill 3. The Pop Culture Parent by Ted Turnau, E. Stephen Burnett, Dr. Jared Moore

Mission update New at Lorehaven: reviews of Illuminary and The Heart of the King* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Yes, kids need books that repeat truth!* No one should pretend many general market books aren’t “woke,” etc.
There has been a vast effort to get this ideology into content for kids.
So it’s a great starting point to ask about “agenda.” But don’t stop there.
If you do stop there, then you might accept books that share half-truths.
Or they may be free of one “agenda” while smuggling in other deceptions.
Rainbows may hide lies, but black-and-white stories may do the same!
But kids also need books that are good.* If we want books that are “free of poison,” that’s a very low bar to clear.
What about books that are well-made? Timeless or have potential to be?
Ask if any book also has quality level matching what kids want or need.
Consider: books made by honest creators, not committee-generated stuff.
Also: books that show real heroes, yet with realistic (kid appropriate) flaws.
Rainbows might be used for evil ends, but look for good reflections of light!
And kids need books that celebrate beauty.* Good books have truth/goodness; great ones also honor God’s creation.
If “beauty” seems too high-falutin’, just hear that word as healthy emotion.
Great books capture all the human experience, with sufferings and joys.
They’ll also show the wonders of God’s world and our creations in here.
Even better, they’ll hearken to the restored paradise awaiting His people.
Rainbows get used to honor ugliness, but God made them for His glory!

Com stationTop question for listeners What truthful, good, and beautiful books did you enjoy growing up?*

Next on Fantastical TruthSo many books, so little time, space, and money. Many fans love collect physical copies of their favorite stories, often so much that they run out of bookshelf space. (Stephen and Zack are in this situation!) With the availability of audiobook and digital copies, isn’t book collection a waste of resources?

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We’ve just seen the end of this year’s summer blockbuster movie season, such as it was. Most of the drama was about the movies rather than in the movies. Fans debate whether stories should be lighter, focusing on “fun” with simple virtues, as opposed to heavier stories with “serious” ideas. Right now it seems Team Light Stories is winning over Team Heavy Stories—and yet nobody is really winning at the box office. How can Christian fans engage stories that are light versus heavy?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Winter’s Chill by Morgan L. Busse 2. The Waymaker’s Foresight by Dan Megill 3. Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

Mission update New at Lorehaven: Marian’s article about K-Pop Demon Hunters * New reviews: Unfixed by Amy L. Saunders, Illuminary* by Chawna Shroeder * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes* “The Operating System Of Cyberpunk Fiction,” Zackary Russell * “Screwtape Wants You to Think Only Horror is Real, but Joy is Sentimental,” E. Stephen Burnett

Many fans favor light or fun colorful stories* By “light” or “fun,” we mean simpler/popular morals, lots of jokes, color.
We don’t mean flippant or crude stories, though some can tend this way.
These stories often embrace or lampshade long-familiar genre tropes.
They often get praised by fans and critics, but fail to set many records.
Lots of people liked the new Superman movie (but not Stephen or Zack).
And many people liked the new Fantastic Four (but it’s also struggling).
Neither film did better than most DC or Marvel films of the past, pre-2020.
And yet more of the big franchises are choosing this creative direction.
Critics who want “realism” must recall that real people like lighter stories.
Maybe these fans tend to like simple reminders about simple ideas/truths.
When real life is a struggle, these fans like to escape into simpler stories.
These fans prefer plain “inspirational” figures over “aspirational” heroes.
Other fans enjoy heavier or serious stories* And by “heavier” or “serious” stories, we mean challenging, realistic tales.
We don’t mean nihilistic or deconstructive, though some tend this way.
These stories often embrace human tradition (a better version of “trope”).
They often find praised and criticism by fans and critics, and set records.
Fans loved the Star Wars Andor series and more-serious Marvel/DC stories.
And many people like Christopher Nolan’s many films, Dune, and similar.
But these stories (in books or cinema) often prove high-risk for many fans.
So they are playing better on less-expensive media, such as streaming TV.
Critics who want “fun” must recall that life isn’t like a shallow movie-land.
These fans may like complex reflections of many challenging ideas/truths.
When real life is a struggle, these fans like stories that provide answers.
These fans prefer “aspirational” heroes over plain “inspirational” figures.
More fans embrace light and heavy stories* A surprising amount of franchises insist on both approaches all at once.
Some moments are comedic/whimsical; others are dark, challenging, heavy
Many manga and anime stories do this, such as Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece.
Recent OP plot: “pastor” turns pirate cyborg to save his adopted daughter.
Even the smash hit K-Pop Demon Hunters reflects light and heavy ideas.
Fans love the teaser for Project Hail Mary adapted from Andy Weir’s novel.
The original Star Wars films as well as Rogue One are both light and heavy.
Alas, studios struggle with these balanced films, but books may do better.
Perhaps these stories best reflect our reality of plain and complex ideas.
Real fans like both light ideas/truths and heavier, more challenging themes.
This may better match real life, with times to escape and seek out answers.
These stories show “inspirational” figures like us and aspirational heroes.

Com stationTop question for listeners During hard times, do you tend to favor light or heavier stories?*

Next on Fantastical TruthOver summer and school seasons alike, many Christian parents want books for their kids that don’t have things like “Agenda” or “Wokeness.” But in our zeal to keep bad, poisonous content out of books, might we miss our children’s more important need to enjoy good, nutritious content in our fantastical fiction?

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Last month at the Realm Makers Expo, we met many skilled Christian creators who are making amazing stories in books, games, and the visual arts. Yet some people believe all this stuff is pointless or outdated and will soon be replaced by so-called “AI art.” Are they right? Will computer-generated content outpace art made by humans? And is such a belief even biblically defensible?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Winter’s Chill by Morgan L. Busse 2. The Waymaker’s Foresight by Dan Megill 3. Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

Mission update New at Lorehaven: reviews of Winter’s Chill, upcoming Unfixed * Also new at the site: Josiah DeGraaf’s take on the recent Superman* movie * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes

“When you meet anything that’s going to be human and isn’t yet, or used to be human once and isn’t now, or ought to be human and isn’t, you keep your eyes on it and feel for your hatchet.”
—Mr. Beaver from C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

“Ginny! … Haven’t I taught you anything? What have I always told you? Never trust anything that can think for itself if you can’t see where it keeps its brain?”
—Arthur Weasley from J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

… Joshua did not draw back his hand with which he stretched out the javelin until he had devoted all the inhabitants of Ai to destruction.
—The Bible, Joshua 8:26 (ESV)

Ep 170. Will Artificial Intelligence Destroy Human Creativity?

Showrunner: the “Netflix of AI” that would let people make their own TV shows

Build AI or Be Buried By Those Who Do

Concession stand* This is a conversation for story fans, yet with some application for creators. * Stephen has and will use AI for databases and limited nonfiction research. * However, he still insists this “search engine” give reliable primary sources. * We at Lorehaven promote stories #MadeByHumans, covers and content. * We may debate using AI generations in marketing for novels and movies. * Stephen opposes this; we already have anti-human marketing now, thanks! * AI can shape directions of outreach, yet fans want personal connections. * Any justifications for generated marketing can easily apply to the stories. * We’ll particularly speak below to critiques of “AI will level the playing field.”

AI ‘art’ dishonors popular creators* Fans, authors, and publishers are debating how/whether to use AI tools.
Some take some anti “big corporation” postures against Hollywood, etc.
This frankly ignores the common grace in big companies across the world.
It promotes a false notion of “democracy” that ignores wisdom and skill,
This is the exact notion promoted by Screwtape with “I’m as good as you.”
It’s more famously promoted by Syndrome from The Incredibles (2004):

“Oh, I’m real. Real enough to defeat you! And I did it without your precious gifts, your oh-so-special powers. I’ll give them heroics. I’ll give them the most spectacular heroics anyone’s ever seen! And when I’m old and I’ve had my fun, I’ll sell my inventions so that everyone can be superheroes. Everyone can be super! And when everyone’s super (evil laugh) no one will be.”

AI ‘art’ dishonors faithful Christian artists* For years we at Lorehaven have extolled God’s gift of human imagination.
We’ve carefully critiqued stories that exchange realism with sentimentality.
And we find top storytellers, including last week’s guests, the Bancroft Bros.
AI-generated “replacements” will make a mockery of human imagination.
If we accept them, we may as well accept “generated” morals and themes.
Haven’t we already rejected imposter realities from bad Christian movies?
AI ‘art’ can involve sins like lies and theft* Big companies let their databases “scrape” creative works under copyright.
Now we’ve seen that studios like Disney and Universal are filing lawsuits.
Stephen says: good, we need ways to show our societies value imagination.
Meanwhile, we go back to biblical ethical views of credit for creative works.
Do we believe in books that don’t credit ghostwriters, human or computer?
Yes, AI is here to stay, but will likely serve as a novelty, mostly for memes.
Clearly some creators will incorporate AI into animation and other films.
And for Stephen’s part, if a Christian story did this, he will avoid that work.
It’s bad enough out there with bad human-made stuff. Time is too short.

Com stationTop question for listeners Would you enjoy a full-length AI-generated book or movie?*

Next on Fantastical TruthWe’ve just seen the end of this year’s summer blockbuster movie season, such as it was. Most of the drama was about the movies rather than in the movies. Fans debate whether stories should focus on “fun” stories with simple virtues as opposed to “serious” stories based on “aura” and myth. Right now it seems Team Fun is winning over Team Serious, but also, nobody is really winning the box office. How can Christian fans engage stories that are fun versus serious?

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For decades the Bancroft brothers have animated classic characters across many realms, including this fall's new movie about our greatest Hero.

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We need no automatic loyalty for big-budget movies that fall into made-up moralities, flippant franchises, and scandalized or sillified superheroes.

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Faithful gamers are finding fertile soil in digital worlds, leading to this year's crossover between Realm Makers and Christian Game Developers.

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Let’s heed the Narnia author’s wise warnings against pacifism or violence, and his praise for biblical courage and defense of good causes.

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Christian fans often hear warnings about fantasy stories' temptations, but Scripture shows differences between real occult and fictional spellcraft.

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Inspired by Jesus's parable of the two sons, Perry Wilson and Landon Hawley have created this new audio adventure from the Christian ministry Cru.

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Men may defend their families and nations by flying amazing airships, yet struggle with the temptations and tough decisions of earthly callings.

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Hear the backstory of Realm Makers, from its 2013 origin as a fantastical writers conference to the new 2025 Realm Makers Expo coming this July to Grand Rapids.

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Christian-led conferences attract saints as well as nonbelievers who like wholesome stories, making them fantastic fields for creative missions.

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God likes the physical world He created, and that’s why He will redeem human subcreations for eternity, including fantastical novels we enjoy for His glory.

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Some heroines need no machines or solar slingshots to awaken in a romantic past and discover true love or deeper truths about the Lord.

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Just in time for graduation season, the Houston Christian University president tells of stories that really matter to children and students.

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Seventy years after C. S. Lewis’s sixth Chronicle of Narnia released, we recall the reasons we love this tale of magic rings and other worlds.

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Shallow fictions insult the work of Christ by implying we can cheapen the law to make ourselves better, or cheapen grace to save others.

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Christian critics toss tomatoes at this newly popular genre. But biblical fiction isn't meant to preach, only to illustrate the Scripture we honor.

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After fractured fairy-stales, flippant super-capers, and “Stalled” Wars, here's how we could rebuild the fallen castles of this media Babylon.

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The headline sounded like an April Fool’s prank. Then others confirmed it and fans raised the uproar. Here’s why it matters that Aslan is male.

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From a wheelchair-wielding robo-pioneer to the Ares 10 mission and other astronauts, many faithful storytellers settled on our sister planet.

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After the first age of rocketry, some cowboy heroes traded their six-shooters for rayguns and rode beyond Earth to settle a new genre frontier.

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Fantasy has magical beasts while science fiction has fantastical vehicles, and both have their biblical redemptive qualities. Now, let them fight.

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Earth’s neighbor is a frozen desert, but it has inspired many fantastical stories—from adventures to big ideas, hard science, and human nature.

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Stephen and Zack explore the Christian heroes, challenging ideas, and speculative science of this possible future when oversheltered believers resist a one-world CAUSE.

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Storytellers who hope for gospel witness to the world must discern today's rising audience of cultural conservatives who like some biblical ideas.

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When readers treat the Bible as a resource for carving out doctrine-blocks or extracting shiny morals, we miss the Hero and true gospel Story of the Scripture.

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Though all their friends thought them enemies, fantasy and romance have grown into lovers, and now bear the new ship name of "romantasy."

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For centuries readers have loved to re-read, retell, or research the classic stories of magical lands where Christlike good defeats evil.

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Since 2018, Lorehaven.com creators have explored fantastical stories for God’s glory, and now we’ve upgraded our Library book search.

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Some harder sci-fi treats humans as spectators to science, while softer sci-fi may use "handwavium" to explain tech while focusing on heroes.

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Castles with knights and wild lands full of creatures remind us of real-life European history, often with one added fantastical ingredient of magic.

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As we launch our 2025 podcast season, we celebrate legacies of the original website that boosted many authors and Lorehaven itself.

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Merry Twelve Days of Christmas Season! After last week’s break, we return with our first New Year’s Eve special. Which top ten Fantastical Truth episodes and Lorehaven.com articles did readers love most in the last year? We’ll survey all of these, and give fun updates, to close our 2024 season.

Mission update* Christian-Made Stories Got Even Better in 2024, Jenneth Dyck * Later this week: new Onscreen articles from Parker J. Cole * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Memoria by J. J. Fischer 2. E. Stephen Burnett: Above the Circle of Earth 3. Lorehaven: share the Fantastical Truth podcast with a friend!

The Christian Roots of Fantasy, R. J. Anderson

On one Saturday evening at the women’s Bible conference, I’d just sold my last book. I was heading to the auditorium for my keynote talk when a nervous-looking young woman plucked my sleeve.

“Excuse me,” she stammered. “Could I ask you why you write books”—her voice dropped to a whisper—“like that?”

“You mean fantasy?” I asked, smiling at her.

She nodded, eyes wide with anxiety and fear.

I didn’t have much time to spare, but my heart went out to her. It wasn’t hard to guess what she believed: that fantasy stories glorify witchcraft, paganism, and the occult, and no serious Christian should have anything to do with them. Especially not one of the main speakers at a Bible conference!

Yet I didn’t feel defensive, because I didn’t need to. Instead, I was happy to tell the young woman why I love fantasy, because this genre offers an opportunity to illustrate biblical truths in a fresh way, and speak to people who might never have listened otherwise.
What Can First-Time Guests Expect at a Christian Writers’ Conference? | with J. J. Johnson, podcast

We’re partners with Realm Makers, the leading fantastical conference for Christian creatives. Recently organizers shared that over 40 percent of registrations for this July’s event are first-time guests. This brings back memories! So we thought we’d share them with you. What’s it like at a writers’ conference? And what should first-time guests expect at Realm Makers and beyond?
Listeners love behind-the-scenes episodes about how books are made.
That’s how we do them, when we do them; we’re not a writers’ podcast.
Still, many fantastical story fans also love to create their own stories.
Duke Leto of ‘Dune’ Shows How Christians Can Live with Nobility in a Hostile World, Josiah DeGraaf

When we’re living in a hostile world, we’re often tempted to adopt our enemies’ methods and do whatever it takes to win. After all, if they’re using vicious tactics that bring victory, don’t we need to adopt similar strategies to survive?

Leto shows the example of a better path.

To some extent, I’m unable to explain with words how we should emulate Leto. Situations vary. Stories shouldn’t be reduced to specific theses. The best way we can enjoy Dune: Part One and grow as people is to reflect on Leto’s character, hold his example in our mind, and use this as inspiration to act likewise.
This was a 2021 article, but still very timely because of Dune and culture.
Josiah did a two-part series; the second part is: Duke Leto Also Shows How Christians Can Practice Shrewd Wisdom in a Hostile World.
Next year, Josiah releases his fantasy novel A Study of Shattered Spells.
Should We Get Mad When Christians Scorn Fantastical Fiction?, podcast

If you’re a Christian fantastical fan, you’re gonna have a bad time. That’s because some critics accuse you of special sin by liking that “entertainment” stuff. So when that popular religious leader, or that random comment, or even your own trusted family member or pastor, warns you against popular culture and fantastical stories, how should you respond in wisdom?
No guest, not even a current topic at the time
Just a theme that many listeners really resonated with
‘The Chosen’ Creator Dallas Jenkins Responds to On-Set Pride Flag Criticism, E. Stephen Burnett

The Chosen is not a church or ministry. Yes, the show has ministerial goals. Some are calling the production a “Christian production,” but what does this mean? They don’t have group prayers or a faith statement. They’re a business that makes Christian content. Believers can disagree about this approach. But they must remember The Chosen is a for-profit company. Just like Solomon built the Temple using help from “pagans” or nonbelievers. Even people who print Bibles may not be Christians.
This news article was from back in June 2023.
It may prove that people felt a shortage of current-year controversies
Inarguably, The Chosen fetches headlines and Christians who love/hate it
How Should Christians Fight to Love a Declining Disney? | with Josh Shepherd, podcast

‘Tis the season for love and enchanted princesses and handsome princes and such-like. But lately, former fans of these ideas just aren’t feeling it, especially from the Disney side of our magical fandoms. When the Big Mouse keeps getting into big trouble, how’s a Christian fan to respond? Josh Shepherd brings a balanced biblical perspective into the studio.
Since this article, Inside Out 2 restored some fans’ faith in Pixar.
Then of course Deadpool and Wolverine slashed through skepticism.
But now fans are still roasting Snow White and the “live action” Mufasa.
The Chosen Succeeds Where ‘Woke’ Stories Fail, Jenneth Dyck

… “Woke” projects fail and The Chosen succeeds for a more nuanced reason. Wokeism is not simply the inclusion of diverse or underprivileged characters. In fact, stories that show many ethnic backgrounds, lifestyles, and situations demonstrate a realistic reflection of God’s creation. I think Hollywood often fails, however, when they take these realities and force them to be something else.
What if a False Christ Started a Cult in Your Town? | The Visitation, podcast

What if the spirit of antichrist came to your town? Burned-out pastor Travis Jordan is on break from ministry after the death of his wife. But then his small city of Antioch faces great signs and wonders from a new prophet who claims to be a better christ than the true Jesus Christ. Just in time for our next summer book quest, challenge your faith and seek the true Savior for the 25-year anniversary of Frank Peretti’s supernatural thriller The Visitation!
Shasta’s Meeting with Aslan in The Horse and His Boy Helped Me Embrace God’s Sovereignty, Elijah David

I can remember the first time I read this scene, and felt confusion about the truth that Aslan harmed someone. But I also felt certain he had been right to do so. And I knew the beauty and terror of how intimately Aslan had been involved in Shasta’s life—yes, as protector and comforter, but also as one source of pain and trouble.

How could I reconcile these varied thoughts and emotions?
Aslan’s talk with Shasta is one of the most beautiful Narnian moment.
This was actually a 2022 article that has really appealed to many readers.
It’s part of Eli’s seven-part series: I’ll Never Grow Too Old for Narnia.
Should Stories Minimize Morality to Advance Personal Liberation? | with Thomas Umstattd Jr., podcast

Once upon a time, more literary heroes pursued virtue, or at least knew that they should. But in more modern stories, main characters aren’t motivated by being good, but by being right. They exchange the truth and Law of God for the lie of “personal liberation.” In a world of abuse and tyrants, this can feel appealing. Yet how does this exchange ultimately make stories worse?
This may be the top notable “nerd news” of 2024: fans are rejecting this.
More makers of such film, streaming shows, and video games are failing.
Fans prefer “classical morality” stories over “personal liberation” stories.

Com stationTop question for listeners What was your favorite Lorehaven podcast episode, article, or review?*

Next on Fantastical TruthHappy New Year! Lord willing, we’ll return next week for a look back at a website with a legacy that predates Lorehaven. Way back in 2006, several Christian fantasy creators started a team “blog” called Speculative Faith. Let’s look back on project that led to thousands of great articles from dozens of creators, and then later grew into the Lorehaven mission and this podcast.

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What’s the most annoying slogan from Christian critics of fantasy? That may be, “We’re not meant to enjoy stories; instead we must Preach the Gospel.” But what may be the second most annoying slogan about Christian fantasy? One surely is, “We don’t need newer stories if we have Lewis and Tolkien.” How then can we as fans respond with grace to Lewis-and-Tolkien-Onlyism?

Episode sponsors1. Audio-Epic.com: “1232” podcast 2. E. Stephen Burnett: Above the Circle of Earth 3. Lorehaven: share the Fantastical Truth podcast with a friend!

Mission update* Article: I Tried to Read the Original Wicked Book But Did Not Finish * Onscreen: Dear Santa Presents Satan as Another Misunderstood Villain * Onscreen: ‘The Rings of Power’ Season 2 Ran Aground Because of Constant Character Shipping * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Why are Lewis and Tolkien absolutely fantastic?* If anyone else has grounds for confidence in these fandoms, we have more.
Here’s our podcast series with guest “Rilian”: Looking Back on ‘Lord of the Rings’
1. What Are the Best Books by C. S. Lewis?
1. How Did Lewis and Tolkien Celebrate and Critique Christmas? | with David Bates
1. Why Do Modern Fans Love Middle-Earth Mixing? | with Evan Cooney
1. Why Don’t Christian-Made Arts Top Secular Charts?
Where do we see Lewis-and-Tolkien-Onlyism?* Casual conversations, often with certain Christian/conservative dads.
“Theobros” have told Stephen, “Why even bother with the new stuff?”
“We have Lewis and Tolkien, so we don’t need any modern stories.”
Many parents also consider these authors “safe” for all readers.
How do we rebut Lewis-and-Tolkien-Onlyism?* Similar to translation debates, this “freezes” a particular era as the “best.”
Ecclesiastes 7:10 cautions the wise against such impulsive nostalgia.
Fans likely wouldn’t apply the same standards to translations or music.
If they did, then they’re not doing their job as Christians or parents.
Would they really restrict their sons or daughters from any other stories?
What about stories loved by teenage girls, such as YA romantasy/cozy?
What about stories loved by young boys, such as heroic graphic novels?
Finally, Lewis and Tolkien themselves would reject such an “idealism.”
Tolkien made new stories with modern flourishes, such as Bree spycraft.
As we shared last year, Tolkien had fun making Father Christmas stories.
For example, Lewis read widely on both old books and new books.
It’s clear from obscure essays that Lewis was even fond of pulp sci-fi!
Lewis would have counted his own books as “new books,” not classic:

“It is a good rule, after reading a new book, never to allow yourself another new one till you have read an old one in between. If that is too much for you, you should at least read one old one to every three new ones.”

—C. S. Lewis

These men, however, are not even “church fathers.” God Himself says:

Oh sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth!

—Psalm 96:1

The best reason against this reading limit: God’s culture call is dynamic.
Never does Scripture hint at “freezing” our creativity at a certain point.
Readers of varying ages, peoples, and personalities love different stories.
New Earth will have the honor and glory of all the nations (Rev. 21:26).

Com stationTop question for listeners Have you ever drifted into a Lewis-and-Tolkien-Onlyism view?*

Caleb Cooke emailed about episode 241 on Christmas stories:

Loved your discussion on Christmas Movies.

I would like to submit for your consideration, Little Women 1994 version. It came out at Christmas time, it features Christmas dinner and Christmas carols, and amazing music and Christmas themes. I like to watch it around Christmas time even though you could watch it anytime.

Other comments: Santa Clause is Coming to Town is the best of the Classic animated Christmas TV specials. It wonderfully tells a story of bravery, love, and redemption.

A Muppet Christmas Carol is probably my favorite version of that story, although special mention goes to the Doctor Who Christmas Special where the Eleventh Doctor Matt Smith plays the Ghost of Christmas Past and Present to a Sci-Fi Future Scrooge. This might deserve an entire Fantastical Truth episode as The Doctor essential uses story and adventures that create new childhood memories to reprogram the imagination of the cold-hearted miser in order to give him a heart of flesh thereby saving his soul and the lives of hundreds of people. Come to think of it, that is very similar to Dickens’ story at it’s heart; Maybe A Christmas Carol is the OG fantastical truth Christmas fiction!

A faithful follower,

Caleb

Next on Fantastical TruthNext week, we’re taking a Christmas Eve break! Then one week later, we return with our first New Year’s Eve special. Which top ten Fantastical Truth episodes and Lorehaven.com articles did readers love most in the last year? We’ll survey all of these, and give fun updates, to close our 2024 season.

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‘Tis the season for Christmas stories and stories fans claim are Christmas stories. Which ones have aged for every season? And which ones could be safely left back in childhood when we thought they were fun? In this special episode, let’s open the spiced eggnog, celebrate the best, and boo the rest.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Memoria by J. J. Fischer 2. Laurie Christine: Garden of Mysteries: A Dragon Slayer Bible Story 3. The Jabin Kainos series by Vince Mancuso

Mission update Lorehaven article: I Tried to Read the Original Wicked Book But Did Not Finish * Lorehaven Onscreen: Dear Santa* Presents Satan as Another Misunderstood Villain * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Which are the best/worst Nativity adaptations? Netflix’s recent Mary* film starts with a narration from their heroine:
“You may think you know my story. Trust me, you don’t.” (Source.) Huh.
Stephen prefers The Nativity Story and of course The Chosen specials.
He grew up watching many Nativity adaptations from Christian creators.
Zack is a fan of Sony Animation’s 2017 animated version The Star.
How do we like secular Christmas stories? Tales like How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Arthur Christmas* count.
So do “secular” stories that engage with faith, like It’s a Wonderful Life.
Classics like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer have some surprising edge.
For other films, like The Santa Clause (series) and Elf, mileage may vary.
What about ‘honorary’ Christmas stories? Fans argue for Die Hard* and such-like, but Stephen really does not care.
Similarly, does it matter that Iron Man 3 and Shazam occur at Christmas?
None of these films, after all, actually released for the Christmas season.
Stephen might claim The Hobbit, LOTR, and TLWW are Christmas tales.

Top question for listeners Which are your best and worst fantastical Christmas stories?*

Caden Gillon enjoyed last month’s episode 238 about dystopias:

Dystopia is an amazing genre, with so many facets to explore. When I heard episode # 238, I got really excited. Not to get off topic, but when I was younger, I devoured my way through the books The Hunger Games and the Divergent. Also, the movie The Book of Eli is a great example, where one character wants a Bible desperately for not-so-good intentions. Dystopia engages our minds in a way that makes us think ”wow, I’m glad it’s not like that right now in our society.” Many of us can agree on one thing, it’s an interesting topic, and has a meaning that can hit home if said in the right way.

When you read dystopia, as you guys said, it seems like everyone (except politicians) can relate to it. Man, early Christians dealt with dystopia in Rome, many countries do today (a good example, Tortured for Christ by Richard Wurmbrand). It’s a darkness that’s found in dictatorships and third world countries. I just wanted to say, and maybe you guys could mention this, we’re living in paradise here in North America. To respond to the question you guys placed in the episode name, I think dystopia is important for us in the way that it makes us realize where we are, and where we could be, and how we’re lucky it isn’t that way!

Remember this: Not to be pessimistic, but society isn’t always going to be the same. never take for granted the times we live in now!

Loving the podcast!

Caden Gillon.

The Adaptation Stationmaster doesn’t agree with Ransom Trilogy hype in episode 240:

May I express a controversial opinion?

I think the Ransom books are the weakest works of fiction C. S. Lewis wrote. Out of the Silent Planet and Perelandra have some really good dialogue scenes (at the beginning of Silent Planet and in the middle of Perelandra) but a lot of them is just a bunch of description with hardly anything happening and, eh, I’ve read better descriptions by Lewis.

That Hideous Strength has a great cast of villains. I wish I could love the book as a whole. I’ve tried to love it. But I just find a lot of it clunky, especially the stuff with the heroes. And that’s a problem when a book is trying hard to convey how much better it is to be one of the heroes than the villains. To an unusual extent for Lewis, this book keeps telling me what to feel without making me feel it. It’s almost like he wrote an outline for a book.

I think something this podcast episode mentioned is very telling. That Hideous Strength is mostly popular with “theological dude bros” (Sorry, if I’m misremembering the phrase) e.g. people who already agree (broadly anyway) with C. S. Lewis’s perspective. The Chronicles of Narnia and Till We Have Faces can be enjoyed by readers even if they don’t totally agree with the worldview behind them. I can’t imagine, say, a feminist reading That Hideous Strength with anything other than disgust, never mind being converted by it. (If anyone knows or has heard of people who disagree with Lewis on the natural order of the world but still enjoy That Hideous Strength, I’d be really interested in hearing about them. I don’t mean that as a challenge; I honestly do think it would be really interesting.) Maybe the problem is that Lewis saw the poetic appeal of hierarchy so clearly and couldn’t see the poetic appeal of egalitarianism at all.

Having said all that, adapting the Ransom Trilogy makes infinitely more sense than Boxen. LOL.

Next on Fantastical TruthWhat’s the most annoying slogan from Christian critics of fantasy? That may be, “We’re not meant to enjoy stories; instead we must Preach the Gospel.” But what may be the second most annoying slogan about Christian fantasy? One surely is, “We don’t need newer stories if we have Lewis and Tolkien.” How then can we as fans respond with grace to Lewis-and-Tolkien-Onlyism?

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Nov. 29 was C. S. Lewis’s birthday. The famous author and scholar was born 126 years ago in 1898. And while fans eagerly await whatever director Greta Gerwig and Netflix might do with Narnia, we decided to ask: how would we take Lewis’s other fantasy tales, the Ransom Trilogy, to adapt for the screen?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Memoria by J. J. Fischer 2. Laurie Christine: Garden of Mysteries: A Dragon Slayer Bible Story 3. The Jabin Kainos series by Vince Mancuso

Mission update Lorehaven Onscreen: Wicked Part 1 Honors the Weak, Not the Woke* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Yes, many know the series as the Space Trilogy. But some scholar-fans (Stephen included) believe that term contradicts a key theme of Lewis’s world.

Quotes and notes BBC releasing a radio dramatization of the Space Trilogy * The Devil Went Down to Venus: Lessons from the Un-Man, Bethel McGrew * Life on the Silent Planet: Essays on Christian Living from C.S. Lewis’s Ransom Trilogy*

How on Mars to adapt Out of the Silent Planet?2. How on Venus could we adapt Perelandra?3. How on Earth to adapt That Hideous Strength?Com stationHow would you adapt C. S. Lewis’s Ransom Trilogy for the screen?Next on Fantastical Truth‘Tis the season for Christmas stories and stories fans claim are Christmas stories. Which ones have aged for every season? And which ones could be safely left back in childhood when we thought they were fun? In our next episode, let’s open the spiced eggnog, celebrate the best, and boo the rest.

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We love stories with fine writing.[1. Photo by Jonathan Francisca on Unsplash.] As the Scripture says, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” But sometimes readers just want basic style, quick tools for the simple job of getting you in and out of a fantastical work of fiction. Which kind of stories do you prefer and why?

Episode sponsors1. Audio-Epic.com: “1232” podcast 2. Laurie Christine: Garden of Mysteries: A Dragon Slayer Bible Story 3. The Jabin Kainos series by Vince Mancuso

Mission update New review of Baptism by Fire* by Alexandra Gilchrist * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

What I mean by ‘literary’ fiction vs. ‘genre’ fictionLiterary fiction* Tends to focus on poetical language, deeper themes, character journeys.
Sentences and paragraphs can be much longer and more complex.
Books often use words as ornate instruments, not as simple tools.
Less emphasis on reaching more readers and more emphasis on the Art.
Tends to have limited readership and become educational, not just fun.

Genre fiction* Tends to focus on basic plot, tropes, clear and simpler ideas/characters. * Sentences are more basic—subject, verb, object—and much shorter. * Books use words mainly as tools for the job, not ornate instruments. * Less emphasis on the Art and more emphasis on reaching more readers. * Tends to have broader readership and become fun, not just educational.

Why I get vexed by some ‘literary’ associations Notice I didn’t say “literary fiction” but associations*—ideas around it.
I feel vexed when literature teachers get preoccupied with Symbolism.
This confuses the means of symbols for the ends of their meanings.
See, for example, the false teachers who reduce the Bible to symbols.
Some teachers really do seem to be imposing their views on the book.
I recall several such examples from my old American Literature classes.
Simple words, like “nightcap,” got misinterpreted with sexual meanings.
Also, thanks to my upcoming novel, I’ve stumbled into a niche subgenre.
Turns out that “missionaries in space” has a few very literary attempts.
Of two top examples (I won’t name them), I’ve tried to read one so far.
Frankly, the novel was dull. Very little sci-fi. Aliens way in the distance.
The novel followed mostly very wealthy, remote, and unlikeable persons.
And that’s another stigma with “literary” schools—the aloof elitism.
Meanwhile, many literary sorts get preoccupied with politics and culture.
They seem to think that real life also functions by “literary fiction” rules.
And of course, the dullest teachers can turn great books into chores.
One sci-fi writer, Bruce McAllister, tried a famous experiment in 1963.
As a presumptuous student age 16, he wrote to 150 top literary figures.
He asked: Did they really consciously put all these symbols in their work?

The answers to the questionnaire were as varied as the writers themselves. Did Isaac Asimov plant symbolism in his work? “Consciously? Heavens, no! Unconsciously? How can one avoid it?” Iris Murdoch sagely advises that “there is much more symbolism in ordinary life than some critics seem to realize.” Ayn Rand wins the prize for concision; addressing McAllister’s example of symbolism in The Scarlet Letter, she wrote, “This is not a definition, it is not true—and, therefore, your questions do not make sense.” Kerouac is a close second; he writes, “Symbolism is alright in ‘Fiction’ but I tell true life stories simply about what happened to people I knew.”

McAllister later became a literature teacher and a notable sci-fi writer.

Though McAllister now claims, “It never occurred to me that [the writers] would answer,” once they did he was delighted—as was his English teacher: “a sweet, teacherly soul,” impressed by his industry but unable to absorb the import of its result. The search for symbols would continue, at least until the end of the 1964–65 school year.

“The conclusion I came to was that nobody had asked them. New Criticism was about the scholars and the text; writers were cut out of the equation. Scholars would talk about symbolism in writing, but no one had asked the writers.”

Ultimately, the answer is not “the literature teachers are making it all up.”
Instead it’s more like, “Sometimes they make it up, but not always.”
So there are intentional deeper, symbolic references in literary fiction.
Great genre fiction can also show literary flair* But guess what. Sometimes genre fiction also includes deeper meaning.
Genre fiction, too, can break out a startling sentence or sweet symbol.
In so doing, the genre fiction may echo one key principle of the gospel.
Scripture seems to endorse at least one “folly” that upends “wisdom”:

For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written,

“I will destroy the wisdom of the wise,
and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart.”

Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?

1 Corinthians 1:18–20

And yet Scripture includes many books, like Proverbs, extolling wisdom.
Paul seems to dismiss a kind of purely academic, worldly wisdom.
He is not advocating some totalizing vox populi, vox Dei notion.
Scripture itself is clearer in some places than others (called perspicuity).
Yet the Bible also holds incredible depths that scholars keep seeking out.
So my resolution is not as simple as “why not both?” but is close to that.
Personally, I believe in “genre fiction” that can incorporate literary value.
Again, the gospel is all about Jesus stooping down to reach humans.
This key doctrine honors His “elite” nature as God yet also His humility.
In our search for fantastic stories, let’s honor authors who do the same.
Accessible stories can also try ornate sentences and deeper symbols.
I want stories with a “big word” at least once a chapter, get me thinking.
Every once in a while, break out a long paragraph or complex sentence!
But keep things simple, in order to reach readers and serve one another.
Thus we seek that invisible asymptote between “literary” and “genre.”
(And if you’re unclear on the meaning of asymptote, look it up!)

Com stationTop question for listeners Do you prefer “literary” or “genre” fantastical fiction, or seek both?*

RK McClure (@pearls4swineguy) on X enjoyed episode 236:

@‌Lorehaven and specifically, the #FantasticalTruth Podcast has been so good for me. They have validated my love and use of fantasy, sci-fi, and even #ChristianHorror for God’s glory. If you have ever wondered if Christians can engage with horror, give this episode a listen.

Davidls commented on the episode 236 page at Lorehaven.com:

A combination of the death of a classmate, and watching one of the Faces of Death films, showed me that I was too casual about death in general, but also that I wasn’t completely desensitized. When watching a slasher film I knew that the whole thing was fake, so I wasn’t bothered by it. When I saw a story about death in the news, I didn’t think of it as fake, but I also didn’t have much in the way of compassion because they weren’t people I knew, and I hadn’t seen their horrible deaths. But with the death of a classmate, and seeing the gruesome deaths of others, it was like I had been woken up by a cold bucket of water and a punch to the gut. Compassion was awakened in me. And as I come to know Jesus better, that compassion grows.

Next on Fantastical TruthThis is our final episode before Thanksgiving 2024! As we head into the holidays, let’s thank God for His gift of the complex gospel that He has made simple for us, as we go on seeking and finding His fantastical truth.

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Boom. Doom. Gloom. Criminals pillage. Cities burn. Mobs rampage. Tyrants rule with iron fists. We live in a society! People here often feel we’re overdue for dystopia. Even now, dystopian tales prove popular among many readers. Let’s explore why and ask whether Christian fans really need these stories.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Lethal Kings by Victoria McCombs 2. Laurie Christine: Garden of Mysteries: A Dragon Slayer Bible Story 3. The Jabin Kainos series by Vince Mancuso

Mission update New review of Lethal Kings* by Victoria McCombs * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes How to Help Your Teens Engage Dystopian Tales, Ticia Messing * 137. Which Dystopian Doom Sounds Worse, Orwell’s ‘1984’ or Huxley’s ‘Brave New World’? * The Giver Quartet Compares Dystopian Control with Human Purpose, Elijah David * 229. What If Christians Joined Civil War Against Immortal Elites? | The Wall by Brian Penn * “The Will of the People,” by Tim Pool * TV Show Intro Music by TheoJT * The Siege * V for Vendetta*

Concession stand This is part of our Fiction’s Chief End series, thus the word need*. * The dystopian genre has biblical roots. It’s echoed in the real-life encounters between David and King Saul, and in the parable Jesus told about the persistent widow. * Dystopian stories usually have Man vs. Society conflict. * Dystopia is one of the founding stories of the United States, along with the frontier. * We’re recording this after a national election in the U.S. * The timing is a feature, not a bug–purposeful, not accidental. * In this transition period, everyone is forwarding their vision for the future, and warning of dark possibilities they’ve seen in stories. * But we do our best to avoid conversations about particular politicians or policies. * So we will also avoid the cliched discussions about dystopia tropes (such as teenage rebel love triangles).

Dystopian fiction helps us face real-life dystopia.* Most of us don’t have access to the levers of power in our political system.
This genre is not primarily for political leaders. These stories usually focus on people with very little political capital.
This is the first reason why dystopian fiction is useful for the average citizen: it gives us a blueprint for extreme resilience.
For decades now, every election has been billed as “the most important of our lifetime.”
Beware the fabricated dystopia that partisan media is trying to convince you that you live in.
Because the problem is that people already think they are living in a dystopian world.
That’s where books in this genre are a helpful corrective: they show us a world that’s truly swallowed by tyranny.
More than that, they (usually) show us how people survive, respond, and in some cases even conquer the tyrants.
Again, you may think the tyrant is in the White House, or you may think the tyrants are in the Deep State. Or perhaps the World Economic Forum. Or just your HOA. Doesn’t matter. We usually don’t get the government we want, or if we do, it doesn’t last long. And we all have a primitive fear of someone’s boot stomping on our neck.
That’s why entering the imagination of an author can be a helpful way of facing this fear.
Dystopian stories give us a reverse “how to” manual.* Dystopian stories show photo-negatives of the lives we hope to enjoy.
They show us what to avoid as a society, the logical end of unchecked corruption, immorality, abuse of power.
They help us spot the very first steps of the road into hell, which is usually paved with good intentions. The problem is that small compromises have compound interest.

You can look the other way once, and it’s no big deal, except it makes it easier for you to compromise the next time, and pretty soon that’s all you’re doing; compromising, because that’s the way you think things are done. You know those guys I busted? You think they were the bad guys? Because they weren’t, they weren’t bad guys, they were just like you and me. Except they compromised… Once.
— Jack Bauer, 24

They also reveal what we should fight for.
Reminds us not to take our freedoms for granted.
Dystopian novels force us to face the darkness within.* One hidden danger of dystopian fiction is wish fulfillment.
The best dystopian fiction goes beyond just smashing a bad system and challenges the protagonists to build a new system.
Dystopian stories show us what to avoid in society–by pointing out what we need to beware of in ourselves.
That question of “How far would you go?” is very relevant today, given conversations about political revenge.

“Good and evil both increase at compound interest. That is why the little decisions you and I make every day are of such infinite importance. The smallest good act today is the capture of a strategic point from which, a few months later, you may be able to go on to victories you never dreamed of. An apparently trivial indulgence in lust or anger today is the loss of a ridge or railway line or bridgehead from which the enemy may launch an attack otherwise impossible (p. 132).”

—Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis

Com stationTop question for listeners How have dystopian stories helped you fight for a better world?*

Winner of the sharing contest for Mike Duran’s Christian Horror* This week’s winner is Bryan Timothy Mitchell! * Going into next year, we plan to do more book giveaways.

Next on Fantastical TruthWe love stories with fine writing. As the Scripture says, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” But often readers want basic style, quick tools of phrase for the simple job of getting you in and out of a fantastical work of fiction. Which kind of stories do you prefer and why?

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Hi! Wow. Middle of autumn. I know what you’re thinking about. Christmas! This weekend the new comedy The Best Christmas Pageant Ever! releases in theaters. And five Thanksgiving seasons ago, in Nov. 2019, new fans began watching the second half of a new biblical fiction drama called The Chosen. This week, we’re thankful to host one of the three Chosen screenwriters who also cowrote The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!, Ryan Swanson.

Episode sponsors1. Sky Turtle Nova: Rift by Steven James 2. Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett 3. The Jabin Kainos series by Vince Mancuso

Mission update New review of The Time Door* by Shannon McDermott * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand Even among our listeners, some may have negative views of this show * We’ve dealt with many of those in episode 148: Why Do Some Christians Revile ‘The Chosen’? | with Josiah DeGraaf and Jenneth Dyck * Also, must credit Jenneth Dyck (writer of this article) for this connection! * We recorded this interview was recorded before big news at ChosenCon. * Swanson is showrunner for “The Chosen Adventures” animated series. * If we knew, we would have asked more about this expanded Bibleverse. * But this chap is good* and didn’t give a single indication of this big news.

Introducing guest Ryan Swanson

Head writer and executive producer Ryan Swanson happened to go to high school with Dallas’s wife Amanda (he was her Sadie Hawkins dance date, actually). Several years ago, they got back in touch, Amanda introduced Dallas and Ryan, and the rest is history. All three writers on The Chosen (Ryan, Tyler Thompson, and Dallas) contribute equally, but Dallas and Tyler would be the first to tell you Ryan is the “keeper of the story.” Nothing gets through unless Ryan deems it high enough quality. It must pass the smell test; it must be good storytelling and television. If we have something to include from Scripture or an important spiritual truth to convey, that’s awesome, but Ryan makes sure it “works.” Not by changing it, of course, but by making sure the show and the plot elevate it.

Ryan Swanson at IMDB
TheChosen.TV
From early faith to filmmaking experience* How did you discover biblical faith and fantastic imagination?
What gifts and interests led to you wanting to become a storyteller?
What films did you help make? What did you love about that process?
From filmmaking experience to The Chosen How did a chance connection lead you to join The Chosen* creator team?
What might we have not heard about The Chosen’s original creation?
After hitting the halfway point, what are the show’s greatest challenges?

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!, directed by Dallas Jenkins and co-written by Ryan Swanson, releases in theaters Friday, Nov. 8.

From The Chosen to Best Christmas Pageant Ever!* How did Dallas (or whoever) ask you to help write this month’s remake?
What do you like about this classic 1971 holiday story and original films?
What’s next for you with The Chosen, other films/projects, and beyond?

Com station Who would win in a fight between the Sons of Thunder and the Herdmans?*

@‌ChloeGotLB40 recalls meeting the makers of LB drama (ep. 219):

I had the privilege to record the song Remember Me from Mark Schultz years ago, at Gap Digital during the time they were recording these. I’m grateful that Todd didn’t inform me who he played in the series until after I finished the song. Imagine my shock to know that “Mac” recorded my song! At that time, I only knew him as the guy who ran Gap Digital and did these audio dramas. I had asked him to sign a magazine for me. He asked me if I wanted it signed by Todd Busteed or Spencer Binford. It took me about 30 seconds to realize he was the voice of Mac! This series is what my name here is based on…Chloe got Left Behind.

Jason Bergstrom enjoyed episode 235 about scary alien stories:

I hadn’t really equated the types of alien stories with how they represent some of our basic fears. The kind that might freak me out the most is the fear of “invading your personal space” and feeling helpless in the face of such a creature. Alien and Aliens are two of my all-time favorite movies, despite the first one qualifying as more frightful. The xenomorph with its beastly design and never-ending goal to get you like a space zombie is one thing, but then how they’re born from your own body in a way that’s out of your control is very scary. It’s the fear of “invading your personal space” on two levels.

Did anyone else read the My Teacher is an Alien books? I loved those as a kid. I reread them with my son a couple years ago and the first three are good, then the fourth goes super environmentalist. Pretty disappointed. Props, Zack, for mentioning Sphere. That was my favorite Crichton book–and yes, way better than the movie.

Next on Fantastical TruthBoom. Doom. Gloom. Criminals pillage. Cities burn. Mobs rampage. Tyrants rule with iron fists. We live in a society! People here often feel we’re overdue for dystopia. Even now, dystopian tales prove popular among many readers. Let’s explore why and ask whether Christian fans really need these stories.

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What’s the red-headed stepchild of Christian-made fiction? If you said science fiction, you’re partly right. But here’s a happy prediction: this other wandering genre is probably getting adopted! That might leave outside the other orphaned books—in the genre called horror. Is this one genre above others doomed to be rejected? Mike Duran, author of the nonfiction book Christian Horror, returns to challenge our preconceptions of spooky stories.

Special note: Share this podcast episode before Nov. 5 for a chance to win your free autographed copy of Christian Horror. Use the hashtag #ChristianHorror when you tag Lorehaven on Facebook, on Instagram, or on TwitterX.

Episode sponsors1. Sky Turtle Nova: Rift by Steven James 2. DreadKing by David Liberto 3. The Jabin Kainos series by Vince Mancuso

Mission update* Lorehaven Onscreen: ‘The Deliverance’ Shows Christ’s Power to Cast Out Evil and Reunite Families by Parker J. Cole * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

This previous podcast episode explores the purpose of healthier horror fiction.

Quotes and notes on Christian-made scary storiesSearch all Lorehaven for episodes, articles, and books labeled horror* 39. How Might Bram Stoker’s Novel ‘Dracula’ Cast Light Against Modern Vampires? | with Geoffrey Reiter * Don’t Let Halloween Flippancy Distract You From Real Horrors and Promises * Find Light in Darkness With These Six Christian Paranormal Thrillers * 132. Do Christians Really Need Horror? | Fiction’s Chief End, part 5 * 133. How Are New Fans Discovering the Horror and Holiness of ‘Dracula’? * 184. How Can Nobledark Horror Explore the Problem of Evil? | with Marc Schooley * 185. What Are the Scariest Ghost Stories in Scripture? * 186. Does the Devil Deceive People into Real Witchcraft? | with Marian Jacobs * How The Crucifix Shows Christ’s Salvation in Dark Fantastical Stories

Concession stand* This may be your first time, yet we’ve often explored horror at Lorehaven. * Some may view horror as a “stumbling block”; that’s a legit objection. * Yet others find comfort in seeing a story that shows sin’s darkness. * Scripture itself shows people rejoicing in God’s law that exposes evil. * Today, many people need to believe Satan exists before they find Christ. * That is just what the best horror tales, old and new, are designed to do.

Introducing guest Mike Duran

Mike Duran is a novelist, artist, and freelance writer. Mike writes fiction and non-fiction. His newest release is Keeper of the Woods (2024); he also wrote The Ghost Box (2014), which was selected by Publishers Weekly as one of the best 2015 indie novels—first in a paranoir series that continues with Saint Death (2016), and The Third Golem (2020). His nonfiction books Christians and Conspiracy Theories (2023) and Christian Horror (second edition, 2023) apply biblical truth to these fantastical topics.

MikeDuran.com

@‌MikeDuranAuthor on FB

@‌MikeDuranAuthor on X

How do Christians avoid confronting real horror?* Well-meaning Christians use “clean” or “family” fiction to cover over sins.
When people are evil, we assume it’s because they were treated badly.
We excuse supposed “acceptable” sins in our lives, churches, cultures.
If our leaders sin, we claim it’s necessary for the greater good/the world.
Or we may intentionally listen to deceptions of the world/Satan/flesh.
Finally, we just ignore all of it; we get out our phones and play games.
Why might we wrongly obsess on horror images?* Stephen saw an expensive lawn full of horror-for-its-own sake images.
These weren’t warnings, or part of a story. There was no other context.
It’s a sort of flippancy that tries to laugh at death, an unearned “victory.”
This is the kind of purposeless horror that Christians rightly critique.
Now a lot of people, overcorrecting for the “clean” stuff, may praise this.
In some cases, they have likely gone from the frying pan into the fire.

Share this podcast episode before Nov. 5 for a chance to win your free autographed copy of Christian Horror. Use the hashtag #ChristianHorror when you tag Lorehaven on Facebook, on Instagram, or on TwitterX.

What’s a more biblical view of ‘Christian horror’?* Scripture itself never assumes someone else will teach the scary parts.
From the very beginning, a creepy serpents tempts Adam and Eve.
God passes judgments of mortality, murder, anarchy, and the Flood.
Later we get hints about Satan’s dark activities behind the scenes.
Evil spirits get even more active in the days of Jesus’s work on Earth.
Today, demons and dark spiritual ideas are real; stories must show them.

Com stationWhat’s your favorite scary story that helps you see sin for what it is?Sean Truax in the RealmSphere shared thoughts about ep. 233:

So, late with a comment as I listened to this a few days ago, sorry.

This is another excellent episode and it had me questioning some of my own beliefs and how I was raised.

I grew up in a Christian home, mom taught a weekly Good News Club, and both of my parents volunteered quite a bit at Church (Children’s ministry for my mom, adult Sunday School for my dad). My parents are also huge Science Fiction nerds. I have memories of attending a Star Trek convention back in the mid-70s. Heinlein and Azimov books were throughout our house, and they took us to see Star Wars and Empire Strikes Back more times than I can count.

Fantasy was a different story. I know I saw the cartoon of “The Hobbit” in the late 70’s/early 80’s, but that was it. Dungeons & Dragons were forbidden, and that stuck with me into adulthood so much that Fantasy Fiction isn’t my thing. The exception is Tolkien and CS Lewis, we had those books grown up, but nothing else. But D&D? Yeah, I struggle with that one.

I can appreciate those who like to play RPGs (I still have some sci-fi ones), but the whole “avoid the appearance of evil” is very much in my head when I see or hear about Christians playing D&D. I have learned that the “appearance” part is less important than what God is telling you about your hobbies. Are they an idol on your time (or money), or in the case of RPGs, are they a way for you to act in an un-Christian manner simply because it’s make-believe?

I like how you guys broke down the difference between what 1 Thess 5:22 says, and how many have re-interpreted it. From what I said above, yes, I’m a victim of the re-interpretation. I don’t know that I will go out and start bingeing on Christian Fantasy books now, but you’ve given me something to think and pray about.

Next on Fantastical TruthHi! Wow. Middle of autumn. I know what you’re thinking about. Christmas! This weekend the new comedy The Best Christmas Pageant Ever! releases in theaters. And five Thanksgiving seasons ago, in Nov. 2019, new fans began watching the second half of a new biblical fiction drama called The Chosen. Next week, we’re thankful to host one of the three Chosen screenwriters who also cowrote The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!, Ryan Swanson.

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Most fantasy fans don’t truly believe that dragons lurk in caves or the Fae are dancing in the woods by moonlight. But if you’re a sci-fi or horror fan, you might truly believe that real creatures from space have come to Earth for nefarious ends. Or that they might dwell among us today. Now that we might know the name of the U.S. Pentagon’s secret UFO or UAP program, let’s consider: what are the scariest alien stories? And why do so many fans want to be scared by these narratives about unearthly beings on Earth?

Episode sponsors1. Sky Turtle Nova: Rift by Steven James 2. DreadKing by David Liberto 3. The Jabin Kainos series by Vince Mancuso

Mission update Regency and Regicide* review * Godzilla Minus One Pits a Human Hero Journey vs. Godzilla x Kong’s Smashing Spectacle * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand* This is the ninth part in our occasional series Armies of the Aliens. * If we don’t mention your favorite alien theory, perhaps we did before. * As of this recording, extraterrestrial species have not been officially confirmed. * All of our stories about aliens, therefore, are based on imagination—not an actual species. * So, we’re going to focus on what all these fictional species reflect about humanity’s view of itself, the world, and even God.

Quotes and notes* Zack on Parker J. Cole’s podcast The Write Stuff: “When Faith Meets UFOs: A Christian Perspective on The Immaculate Constellation” * Pentagon holds briefing as Israel says they killed Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar * Michael Shellenberger tweet on Oct. 8, 2024

Wicked aliens can invade your personal space.* Many alien movies are very simple: a horror creature chases people in some kind of haunted house.
These stories prey on our primal fears of the unknown, our disgust with the horrible, and the dread of the superior.
H. P. Lovecraft is the inspiration of many of these stories of cosmic horror.
This type of alien is seen in movies like Alien, Predator, The Thing, Virus, Event Horizon, Pitch Black, Doom, Monsters, Dreamcatcher, and A Quiet Place.
What draws us to these stories is the desire to conquer the unknown. It’s a new frontier to brave, and for Americans, the frontier is a key part of our culture.
We also value conquering our own internal demons, inspired by the famous quote, “We have nothing to fear but fear itself.”
These stories alternately act as a crude metaphor for the Enlightenment and a rebuke of it. We’re either conquering our ignorance or being reminded that there’s a limit to what we can know.
Often these stories have a theme of “they dug too deep.”
Powerful aliens can attack our cities and nations.* In this second category, what’s at stake is not merely the lives of a few people, but the entire area in which they live.
These stories are often a metaphor for the horrors of war, especially the overwhelming odds when facing a far superior military.
Movies about this include War of the Worlds, Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2017), Independence Day, Cloverfield, Battleship, Skyline, and Oblivion.
TV shows include Falling Skies, V, Colony, and The Three Body Problem (but please watch the Amazon Prime–distributed version, not the Netflix one)
The fear we face in these stories is whether or not civilization itself has an expiration date.
These stories echo back what must have been the traumatizing experience of The Tower of Babel.
They remind us that, as powerful as our technology becomes, there is still Someone mightier.
Demonic aliens can destroy our very humanity.* These types of aliens won’t simply hunt you down or blow up all the skyscrapers.
Instead, they want to capture your soul and alter your very nature.
There’s something terrifying about your body and even your mind being hijacked by an alien creature.
We see this in Invasion of the Body Snatchers, The Host, Annihilation, The 5th Wave, Sphere, and Star Trek episodes with The Borg.
The fear being explored here is the fear of going insane and/or becoming evil. Can someone become too far gone for rehabilitation? For salvation?

Com stationTop question for listeners What’s your favorite most frightening alien story?*

Next on Fantastical TruthWhat’s the red-headed stepchild of Christian-made fiction? If you said science fiction, you’re partly right. But here’s a happy prediction: this other wandering genre is probably getting adopted! That might leave outside the other orphaned books—in the genre called horror. Is this one genre above others doomed to be rejected? Mike Duran, author of the nonfiction book Christian Horror, returns to challenge our preconceptions of spooky stories.

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We just upgraded Lorehaven.com, especially the Library with its many genres and subgenres.[1. Photo by Camille Orgel on Unsplash.] Nearly 1,400 titles cover a wealth of Christian-made fantastical fiction going all the way back to The Hobbit. Most of those published titles are fantasy. That’s the most popular genre today. But what might be the future of Christian-made fantastical storytelling? Kara Swanson and Brett Harris, directors and co-founders of The Author Conservatory, give us a glimpse into what themes and themes they see from upcoming authors.

Episode sponsors1. Audio-Epic.com: “1232” audio drama podcast 2. DreadKing by David Liberto 3. The Jabin Kainos series by Vince Mancuso

Voices of the Future vol. 3: Stories of Healing & Home is available. Author Conservatory plans to release vol. 4 later in 2024.

Mission update Last week we published a retro review of A Star Curiously Singing* * Visit our Library to find the perfect fantastical novels this season * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand We’re not a writers’ podcast, but it’s fun to glimpse behind the scenes. * Of course, every attempted prediction of the future is just speculation. * Stay tuned next year, because this episode is a prequel to a whole series. * This episode was inspired by the Voices of the Future* anthology series.

Reintroducing guest Kara Swanson

Kara Swanson writes stories about fairy tales and fiery souls. She spent her childhood a little like a Lost Girl, running barefoot through lush green jungles which inspired her award-winning Peter Pan retellings, Dust and Shadow. She is also the cofounder of the Author Conservatory, where she has the honor of teaching young writers to craft sustainable author careers. You’ll find Kara with her toes in California sand as a SoCal resident, belting Broadway show tunes on weekend drives to Disneyland with her delightfully nerdy husband, or chatting about magic and mayhem on Instagram.

KaraSwanson.com

AuthorConservatory.com

Instagram @‌karaswansonauthor

Introducing guest Brett Harris

Brett Harris is the bestselling author of Do Hard Things and co-founder of the Young Writer’s Workshop and the Author Conservatory, which have trained thousands of writers since 2017. He is a personal mentor and coach for many of the world’s top young writers and authors and his mission is to raise up the next C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien.

Do Hard Things at Amazon

AuthorConservatory.com

What’s the Author Conservatory origin story?* Who had the idea for this different sort of author training model?
How many and what sorts of authors are enrolled in the training?
Why do you want to “raise up the next C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien”?
What sorts of books are most popular today?* A stop by nonfiction: politics, history, biography, philosophy, self-help?
Christian fiction vs. nonfiction: historical, romantic, cozy, mystery, other?
Christian fantastical fiction: fantasy? science fiction? any “horror” at all?
What novels may prove popular in the future?* Which fantasy genres do Conservatory authors enjoy creating the most?
What stories, authors, subgenres are influencing these new authors?
Any guesses about future genre hybrids or dark horse genres like sci-fi?

Com stationTop question for listeners What’s your favorite fantastical genre? Which do you want more of?*

Andrea J. Graham remarked on a social post for episode 233:

Sorry but abstain from the very appearance of evil does mean to abstain from the appearance of evil. We don’t get to cherry pick what we like and believe is safe out of God’s word. Gerrymander it to say anything but the plain and self evident meaning of the text at your own risk. But only the Holy Spirit gets to apply the text and define what specific evils are so evil we don’t want caught so much as looking guilty and such is almost certainly sins in the text such as fornication not drinking root beer and ball room dancing and playing Uno.

Shaneen shared a comment at the Lorehaven.com episode page:

The example of co-workers of opposite genders is not very sound for me.

A better example: Christians are commanded not to have intercourse until after marriage.
Suppose a Christian man and woman, both single, co-habit the same house alone. They are not sleeping together; nevertheless, they are in a position which makes it very hard to prove they are not.

The Christian onlooker would (we hope) make inquires before passing judgment; the non-believer, so often looking for any reason to find fault with us, could yell “hypocrisy “, or perhaps, “oh, it’s not such a big deal then, if they can do it so can I.”

Next on Fantastical TruthMost fantasy fans don’t truly believe that dragons lurk in caves or the Fae are dancing in the woods by moonlight. But if you’re a sci-fi or horror fan, you might truly believe that real creatures from space have come to Earth for nefarious ends. Or that they might dwell among us today. Now that we might know the name of the U.S. Pentagon’s secret UFO or UAP program, let’s consider: what are the scariest alien stories? And why do so many fans want to be scared by these narratives about unearthly beings on Earth?

Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations

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This twisted interpretation of 1 Thessalonians 5:22 isn't biblical, doesn't work, and enables fake holiness or even spiritual abuse.

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Many fantasy worlds have people groups that don’t like each other. And many people in fairy-tale lands warn you never to go in the forest. But in Ellie Castor’s community of Bishop’s Gap, the feud between her family and the Levy family is getting worse. And the root of it lies at the heart of the forest where she must never go—unless it’s to fight the curse. Today we’re tramping into the dead leaves in Helen Dent’s new fantasy The Burning Tree.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: The Immortal Abyss 2. Exile’s Hope by David Liberto 3. Above the Circle of Earth: prebuy this sci-fi

Mission update Lorehaven action item: Amish Vampires in Space* book quest * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Introducing guest Helen Dent

Helen Dent’s career as a writer began at age nine, when her grandfather paid her a dollar a page for what turned into quite a lengthy story. She studied monster theory (among other things) in graduate school, taught English at a Chinese university, and toured the Scottish Hebrides in a car with a needy radiator. Now she lives in Texas with her husband, kids, a cat, and a hamster. She belongs to the DFW Writers Workshop, the Fort Worth Poetry Society, and Art House Dallas.

HelenDentWrites.com
Helen Dent on Facebook
@‌helendentwrites on Instagram
How did you find biblical faith and fantastic imagination?2. What ideas and images led to The Burning Tree?* Genre differences: portal fantasy or high fantasy versus magical realism
Yet this novel isn’t urban fantasy but a rare example of rural fantasy.
There’s also a dash of mythology from another tradition entirely.
What’s next for your creative worlds?Com stationTop question for listeners Which places in nature have filled you with wonder or dread?*

Jasmine commented on episode 221 with Jerry Jenkins:

All really interesting. Now if I were writing the series today (and it could as well be, since no one knows the day or the hour anyways), there are some changes I could possibly make:

Carpathia gains control of android and apple and all the streaming sevices (Netflix, Hulu, Paraomount, Disney+)

The bugging system could be more advanced, with possibly a hidden camera and a microphone that’s more like a little chip

The Seal of God would not only have a cross but also calculation of 777 (as opposed to the 666) for each believer from different regions

Akbar could use a smart phone as he’s interrogating the workers at the palace in searching for the mole

The three demons (Baal, Ashtorath, and Cankerworm) could be artificial intelligence until Carpathia and Fortunato exhaled three frogs from their mouths and bring those three to life.

Tsion Ben-Judah could have a underground streaming service

There could be a underground online news (most people get their news online nowadays)

Those are just some random ideas for what the series could be like if it was written today.

Next on Fantastical Truth“Judge not” gets twisted to shut down God’s Law. The phrase “money is the root of all evil” gets twisted to shut down biblical ambition. And “no eye has see, no ear has heard” often gets twisted to shut down a longing for Heaven. But what twisted Scripture most often gets used to reject Christ-exalting fantastical imagination? This top text may be 1 Thessalonians 5:22: “Avoid the appearance of evil.” But does that text actually say to avoid not just actual evil, but anything that appears evil in the eyes of … someone?

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Christian parents often ask whether stories for their kids have bad words and bad language. Today they’re also asking: “Does this story have Agenda?” Often they look for clean stories, that is, stories empty of objectionable elements. But do readers of all ages really need only clean fiction? Instead of stopping at minimalist stories that don’t contain obvious poisons, shouldn’t we also seek stories that are full of nutrients—stories that are wholesome?

Episode sponsors1. Audio-Epic.com: “1232” audio drama podcast 2. Return of the Lost Ones by David Liberto 3. Above the Circle of Earth: prebuy this sci-fi

Mission update Lorehaven recently reviewed Sea and Soul as well as The Skin Map* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand We love to approach this “clean” topic from many different directions. * We’ve already asked whether this cleanliness is really next to godliness. * But this isn’t that episode. Here we ask if we should stop at clean fiction. * Or do we build on that foundation and seek fiction that’s even better? * We start by offering an alternative word* for what many Christians want. * We’re talking mainly about casual conversation, not Official Book Policy. * So if you seek out “clean fiction,” keep at it! But be challenged anyhow. * Labels help shape our imaginations, giving sound/ideas to assumptions. * It may seem odd to say “this word, not that,” but we’ll explain why here.

Quotes and notes* 81. Should Christians Use ‘Clean Fiction’ to Fight a Dirty World? * 155. How Might Sentimentalism Threaten Christian Fiction? * 169. Should Christian Stories Feel Free to Show Cussin’ and Fightin’?

What do we mean by ‘clean fiction’?* The word “clean” brings a many images and cultural assumptions.
For our last “clean” episode 81, we used an image of shiny soap bubbles.
We may also think about spiritually “clean” foods or natural ingredients.
What do we mean by ‘wholesome’ fiction? Where clean implies absence of bad things, wholesome* is opposite.
Wholesome implies good, nutritious ingredients that help you grow.
Clean means “isn’t bad.” Wholesome means better: “is actively good.”
Do we disregard clean and seek the wholesome?* Stephen believes: yes, again, in how we casually talk about stories.
Many readers believe that clean quickly denotes anything offensive.
But many other readers see the exact opposite: clean means false.
That’s because, clearly, real life isn’t clean, and stories are best realistic.
But critics should note: real life does include clean elements, after all.
This reality is best described by the word wholesome; it can be unifying.
Wholesome also encourages us to consider different maturity levels.
Most folks assume clean means “suitable for kids”; wholesome can vary.
Scripture itself would not be considered clean, but it is wholesome.
God, the Author, has given us His word not just to keep out bad stuff.
He invites us into His true Story that is about growing to be like Jesus.

Com stationTop question for listeners What stories would you call wholesome as opposed to clean*?

John used the Lorehaven.com feedback form for episode 230:

You mentioned your next episode will be about wholesome stories. We are Christians and have homeschooled our awesome daughter her whole life. She is 15 now and besides her other many interests, she still loves reading. We were lucky enough to discover a curriculum called The Good and the Beautiful. The reading curriculum focuses on stories that are good, beautiful, wholesome, and I would say edifying. Focusing on Christian character and values. (This is a Mormon organization. The great majority of the curriculum is Bible-based.) There is a whole library for readers from preschool to high school level. I highly recommend the reading library, if not the whole curriculum, to anyone looking for great books for their kids.

So did Cody, who had thoughts about a mentioned movie:

I read Joseph Holmes’s piece on The Front Room and then I read the Wikipedia synopsis and now I’m really confused. According to Holmes, part of the movie’s message is that Christianity disempowers women and Paganism empowers them. But the premise is that Christianity somehow gives the female villain superpowers and until the end, the Pagan heroine is at a loss as to how to deal with her. Say what?

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Just this month we’ve seen three examples of a polarity shift. Up is down. Water is dry. And heroes are actually villains—while the villains get justified by tragic backstory. How does this happen? In reality and fiction, why do some modern storytellers keep reversing the polarity of heroes and villains?

Special mention1. In Memory of Daniqua Grace White ♡ Support Siblings With Funeral

Episode sponsors1. Audio-Epic.com: “1232” audio drama podcast 2. Return of the Lost Ones by David Liberto 3. Above the Circle of Earth: prebuy this sci-fi

Mission update Lorehaven recently reviewed The Chaos Grid as well as Sea and Soul* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes* [LOTR] How do orcs reproduce? * Orc Origins and Breeding | Fandom

Concession stand Most of what we’re describing is rampant cynicism. * A lot of what’s driving this trend can be traced to major changes in tabletop games and video games. * You’ve probably heard this trend play out like so: + “Ha ha, heroes are actually villains.” Example: The Boys + “Ha ha, good guys are secretly evil.” Example: The Last of Us + “Ha ha, religion is an evil control system.” Example: The Front Room*

“You cannot go on ‘seeing through’ things for ever. The whole point of seeing through something is to see something through it. It is good that the window should be transparent, because the street or garden beyond it is opaque. How if you saw through the garden too? It is no use trying to ‘see through’ first principles. If you see through everything, then everything is transparent. But a wholly transparent world is an invisible world. To ‘see through’ all things is the same as not to see.”

― C.S. Lewis, The Abolition of Man

Many simply say, “It’s not fair” that some people win and others lose. Why shouldn’t everyone be equal?
Why critics may feel so cynical about heroes* If no one can possibly be more virtuous than anyone else, then heroes by definition cannot exist.
Likewise, if heroism is an easy thing, then heroes would be a dime a dozen, instead of rare.
Humility is the opposite of the armchair quarterback who demonstrates 20/20 hindsight.
Example: some recent revisionist history that portrays Winston Churchill as a villain
How we get heroes: courageously pursue virtue* A hero doggedly pursues a goal no matter the obstacles or failures.
Virtue is not always an easy or pleasant task, as it usually involves self-denial and long timescales.
Examples: the SpaceX astronauts who recently undertook the Polaris Dawn spacewalk mission

The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting. It has been found difficult; and left untried.

—G. K. Chesterton

Although it’s scary for us to reject worldly conformity, we can practice courage.
Villains get real power from self-righteousness* Trauma and oppression are not replacements for virtue.
Misfortune does not give someone license to sin.
Villains follow their overinflated sense of self-importance and righteousness

Com stationTop question for listeners* Who are your favorite sincere heroes and villains?

Terri Hamilton wrote in after our “chart-topping” episode 228:

Great analysis! I agree with everything you’re saying. Also let’s remember that 80% of everything in past centuries was also in the lower end of the Pareto scale–we just aren’t aware of that stuff because it hasn’t passed the test of time.

Here’s an example of a Christian-written novel that did extremely well, but many fantasy fans may not have read it or realized the author is a Christian: “Gilead” by Marilynne Robinson is literary fiction and won the Pulitzer. She is a wonderful writer. I also have a book of her essays, some of which explore Christian themes.

Count me among those who got behind on all that’s going on (Christian or otherwise) in the spec fic world because of real life. I just started listening to your podcast in the last few weeks, hoping to catch up a bit.

Next on Fantastical TruthChristian parents used to ask whether stories for their kids had bad words and bad language. Today they’re also asking: “Does this story have Agenda?” Often they look for clean stories, that is, stories empty of objectionable elements. But is this really what readers of all ages need from our fiction? Instead of asking for minimalist stories that don’t contain obvious poisons, shouldn’t we also seek stories full of nutrients—stories that are wholesome?

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In the year 2099, imagine having to cancel your family vacation plans to St. Louis or that Oklahoma ranch. How come? Because, unfortunately, it’s dystopian times and there’s a wall there. It’s even worse inside those middle districts for Asher, son of The Defiance, because his one true love is now trapped on the Lazurite side, and her father runs totalitarian government. This month we’re crossing The Wall in our September book quest, and today we invite Brian Penn to explore this debut and other dystopian dooms.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Ignite by Kara Swanson 2. Above the Circle of Earth: prebuy this sci-fi 3. Lorehaven Guild: The Wall book quest

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: The Chaos Grid* by Lyndsey Lewellen * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Introducing guest Brian Penn

Brian Penn is an award-winning novelist and screenwriter. He has a BS in psychology, which he finds useful while composing interesting and authentic characters. He currently resides in the Pacific Northwest with his wife and three children, who serve as his daily inspiration. When he isn’t writing you can find him spending time with his family, hitting the slopes, or shooting archery. Brian is a recipient of the Literary Titan’s Book Award as well as a Maxy Award Finalist for best science fiction.

BrianAlanPenn.com
@‌BrianPennAuthor on Facebook
@‌brianpenn on Instagram
@‌BrianAlenPenn on TwitterX
How did you first ‘plot’ to destroy future-America? Famous dystopian tales have messed up Europe (Brave New World*)
A few specifically target the U.S. of A., some vaguely (The Hunger Games)
What would last in such a society? What would be barely remembered
What can Christians do in a dystopian country?* Choose between the Defiance and the harder-core Sons of Levi
Choose between peaceful withdrawal or shrewder engagement
Choose between human morality and artificial tech “resurrection”
What’s next for Asher and/or Sarai as we rebuild? Reader response to The Wall* since its December 2023 publication
Titles for the two sequels are now revealed; when do they release?
What else lies in your future—any Defiance, creativity, or some of each?

Com stationTop question for listeners Would you join a resistance to overthrow dystopian government?*

Vince Mancuso, Jabin Kainos sci-fi series author, liked ep. 228:

I may not agree 100% with some of your thoughts—I see no reason Christians shouldn’t try to dominate the markets—I fully understand how you got there, as well understand we are in a different culture than Michelangelo, but I don’t want that to keep us from making attempts and succeeding where we can.

Next on Fantastical TruthJust this month we’ve seen three examples of a polarity shift. Up is down. Water is dry. And heroes are actually villains—while the villains get justified by tragic backstory. How does this happen? In reality and fiction, why do some modern storytellers, keep reversing the polarity of heroes and villains?

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“Back in the olden days, Christian art was king.[1. Photo by Jelly Dollar on Unsplash.] Top artists like Michelangelo and Da Vinci pioneered in their creative fields, and later composers like Bach and Handel revolutionized their day’s music. Then later, of course, Lewis and Tolkien did this for fantasy! So why today do all the Christian artists copy The World instead of leading in culture?” How often have you heard these questions? And how often have you heard solid, logical answers to them?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Ignite by Kara Swanson 2. Above the Circle of Earth cover reveal: Thursday, Sept. 5 3. Lorehaven Guild: The Wall book quest

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: Maggie and the Mountain of Light* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand If you’re still asking these questions sincerely, we aren’t throwing shade. * At the same time, we do believe these questions should help us grow. * In this episode, we won’t just complain about our art not topping charts. * Instead we explore exactly why* Christian art isn’t as “big” as we’d like. * After this, we’ll share some needed challenges to the question premise.

Answer 1: Because pop culture is a demanding field. Some jobs are more traditional, and others high-risk, like story-making. * Stephen can testify to this. Much of what he does entails a lot of risk. * For every A-list creator, there are thousands who haven’t made it. * Open discussion*

Answer 2: Because we’re called to other goals first. God commanded His people to start families and steward the Earth. * That leads to and includes art-creation. But now we suffer pain and toil. * This sin-cursed world does put a damper on our relationship with art. * Open discussion*

Answer 3: Because secular elites manage the charts. We can’t afford to be too naive about the biases in entertainment media. * Many movies, games, songs get secular attention but little actual profit. * In the past, Christian-made books weren’t often sold in secular stores. * Open discussion*

Answer 4: Because culture isn’t Christian-adjacent. In the old days, artists showed biblical imagery because this was trendy. * Cultural Christianity was in. The churches held wealth and influence. * If we want Christians to top charts, we’d first need cultural dominance. * Open discussion*

Answer 5: Some old top artists were not Christian. Again, the classic-art greats did their work in a Christian-ish culture. * Some were Christian, but others were just going along with their world. * Christians can’t “claim” artists just because they showed Bible pictures. * Open discussion*

Answer 6: Plenty of new Christian artists do great. It’s corny to repeat the “all Christian just follow the world” canard. * These days, right now, many faithful Christians are making fantastic stuff. * Often critics don’t notice because they’re the ones following the world. * Open discussion*

Com station Where do you see faithful Christians making fantastical art?*

Zachary Edmonson remarked about last week’s ep. 227:

Contrary to popular belief, I think a world of true Christians could achieve a Star Trek future. If ours was an atheistic, relativistic world, we’d be too busy fighting each other to accomplish anything.

RuthAnn Schmitt added about that ‘Star Trek future’ episode:

The Gutenberg Printing Press, for example, was made to print the Bible. Without that want for printing the Bible, we would not have the high tech printers we have today. Now, we have 3D printers. All because of a man who had a desire to get Bibles out to common people.

In short, countless inventions were made because of Christians. Atheists have no right to complain.

Next on Fantastical TruthIn the year 2099, imagine having to cancel your family vacation plans to St. Louis or that Oklahoma ranch. How come? Because, unfortunately, it’s dystopian times and there’s a wall there. It’s even worse inside those middle districts for Asher, son of The Defiance, because his one true love is now trapped on the Lazurite side, and her father runs totalitarian government. This month we’re crossing The Wall in our September book quest, and next week we invite Brian Penn to explore this debut and other dystopian dooms.

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Space. The next-to-final frontier. So what’s the final one? It’s the future. As sci-fi fans, Stephen and Zack enjoy debating space travel possibilities, Moon stations and Mars colonies (likelier now after the liquid water finding?), and of course those armies of the aliens. Now we’ll ask whether today’s scientists and speculators recognize Christianity’s crucial role in their disciplines, and whether they see a place for Christianity in their vision of the future.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Winter’s Maiden by Morgan L. Busse 2. The Katrosi Revolution series by Jamie Foley 3. Join the Above the Circle of Earth cover reveal crew

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: Winter’s Maiden and After Moses* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes* We reference this meme about what is supposedly holding back the Star Trek future. * “Top 10 believing scientists, part 1,” July 18, 2024, and “Top 10 believing scientists, part 2,” Sarah Salviander, Aug. 1, 2024: Part 1 and Part 2 * “How the worst characters in sci-fi help me deal with the problem of evil,” Sarah Salviander, Feb. 6, 2024

“The chief aim of all investigations of the external world should be to discover the rational order and harmony which has been imposed on it by God and which He revealed to us in the language of mathematics.”
—Johannes Kepler

“To know the mighty works of God, to comprehend His wisdom and majesty and power; to appreciate, in degree, the wonderful workings of His laws, surely all this must be a pleasing and acceptable mode of worship to the Most High, to whom ignorance cannot be more grateful than knowledge.”
—Nicolaus Copernicus

Introducing guest Dr. Sarah SalvianderDr. Sarah Salviander is a Bible-believing, power-lifting, cancer-surviving, PhD astrophysicist. She was raised atheist in a secular country: no churches or temples, no scriptures or holy books, no discussions about God or gods. Her north star was science, which led her into a PhD astrophysics program. But pondering the mystery of existence caused her naturalistic beliefs to crumble. And studying the evidence for Christianity convinced her it was true. She’s now a research scientist, professor, and writer, and lives with her family in Texas.

Sarah Salviander on Substack and X (Twitter)
How Christians influenced modern science* Christians expected an orderly universe
Christians expected an expanding universe
How the study of the stars led to faith in the creator of the cosmos
What Star Trek imagines for human progress Star Trek* imagines a utopia brought about by warp drive
Star Trek doesn’t think religion has much of a place in the future
But somehow most Star Trek characters agree on basic morality
How we will live in a fantastical future* What we should expect about scientific and astronomical discoveries in the next decade or so
Does God forbid or otherwise prevent space travel? (Genesis 11, Isaiah 45:18, Matthew 24:31)
How naturalism and neo-pagan religions are becoming increasingly common within the scientific community
How Christianity will continue advancing science

Com stationTop question for listeners What favorite star, exoplanet, or other part of the galaxy do you hope to visit someday?*

Jake enjoyed episode 225:

Just finished the new episode y’all did about Lord of the Rings. I was 100% someone introduced to Middle-earth via the first Peter Jackson movie. I had a vague awareness of The Hobbit but no knowledge of LOtR. I remember leaving the theater from Fellowship, going directly downstairs from the theater in the mall into Barnes and Noble to buy the three-in-one trilogy book which I still own until this day. I had the trilogy read by the end of Christmas break and have read or listened to it all multiple times since then. I took Tolkien classes as an undergrad and graduate student and routinely reference Middle-earth in my classes as a teacher at a classical school. In fact, I have made it clear that if a book I teach is removed, I will campaign hard for The Hobbit to be its replacement.

Thank you, Peter Jackson.

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When was the last time you were reading a story or hearing music, and you felt those chills and sense of wonder that made you think, “Oh, wow, thank you, Lord”, or consider that the Holy Spirit was active in this artwork?[1. Photo by John Price on Unsplash.] We might say the story was “inspired,” similar to how we believe the Bible was inspired by the Holy Spirit. But as we celebrate stories #MadeByHumans, do we also believe God Himself does special work to help make these stories?

Episode sponsors1. Audio-Epic.com: “1232” audio drama podcast 2. The Katrosi Revolution series by Jamie Foley 3. Join the Above the Circle of Earth cover reveal crew

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: Winter’s Maiden and After Moses* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes* What does it mean that the Bible is inspired? | GotQuestions.org * Is “Paradise Lost” by John Milton biblical? | GotQuestions.org * ‘God Can’t Spell and Has Bad Grammar’?, Speculative Faith * Has God Spoken? By Mike Winger * Reach Teenagers Through Cru (spoken word video)

‘Men spoke from God as they were carried along…’

1. The Bible. Scripture is our only inerrant, authoritative, and sufficient word of God. Men wrote the Bible by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Each book reflects its human author’s personality, language, and genre choices, yet flows into a single narrative called the Gospel. The Bible consists of sixty-six books in Old and New Testaments. (Good translations give us confidence to know God’s intent.)

from the Lorehaven Sacred Scrolls faith statement

Open discussion

For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,” we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain. And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

2 Peter 1:16–21 (ESV)

For generations, Christians have referred to this as the Spirit’s inspiration.
Other statements of faith refer to Scripture’s inerrancy or perfection.
But this word, “inspiration,” also has some linguistic creep for creativity.
And in Scripture before, God’s Spirit also did some unpredictable things.
For example, 1 Samuel 19:18–24. This isn’t taught in Sunday school!
Sight and Sound Theaters’ “David” dramatized this scene so wonderfully.
It cleared space for loud expressive worship of God as Scripture shows.
Yet this scene also warned that some people who do this aren’t of God.
‘God can’t spell and has bad grammar’?* The phrase comes from Christian fantastical author John B. Olson.
Aspiring authors would excitedly present him their ideas or manuscripts.
“God laid this on my heart. It’s so amazing. God told me to write this!”
So that phrase was his response. And the heart of it does remain true.
The Holy Spirit inspired (past tense) the inerrant written word of God.
Our stories, however, contain some errors in substance, style, or both.
Stephen can testify, now that he’s coming to the end(?) of novel edits!
Many authors are highly skilled, yet can’t claim to be “inspired” this way.
For that reason, to avoid confusion, Stephen avoids using that word.
We mus not elevate other works as if they’re “inspired” like the Bible.
And we’ve heard the stories of “God told me to date you” manipulations.
Some indeed use the “God told me…” line sincerely yet with aspirations.
But we need not say this in order to value the Spirit in us, or our work.
‘Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit’* That phrase comes from the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 6:19.
Even now we hear unbelievers fake-quote this “body is a temple” phrase.
Christians do, however, believe the Holy Spirit is God Himself in us.
He’s cleaning up the place, changing our thoughts, making us like Jesus.
And that does mean He’s equipping us to do good works for His glory.
These good works would surely include reading/making creative works.
And because these works are worship, we’ll likely feel much the same.
Sometimes it’s rest. Or simple satisfaction. Or conviction. Prayer. Bliss.
And sometimes the feelings get heightened to a “worship experience.”
Stephen felt this way watching that amazing/faithful “David” stage epic.
Or even riding a roller coaster. Endorphins? Yes. Gift of God? Also yes.
God works through physical means that we dare not discount either way.
When we thank Him, and enjoy these gifts, let’s not skip a thinking step.
And for writers, maybe we can be more biblical/careful in our processes.
Instead of, “God gave me this idea,” we can say, “God, thank You for Your gift of the Holy Spirit, changing my heart to love Your beauty, goodness, and truths, which I pray will help to inspire these ideas.”
E.g., we’re not inspired like Scripture is, but inspired by the Scripture.

Com station When did you last feel that magic sense some call “inspiration”?*

Kinsey Holt enjoyed ep. 225, celebrating Middle-earth fandom:

Great podcast! I love LotR, and I’m so glad to hear a common-sense discussion about how the left is treating it these days, and to hear the stories so beautifully applied to life today.

Next on Fantastical TruthSpace. The next-to-final frontier. So what’s the final one? It’s the future. As sci-fi fans, Stephen and Zack enjoy debating space travel possibilities, Moon stations and Mars colonies (likelier now after the liquid water finding?), and of course those armies of the aliens. Now we’ll ask whether today’s scientists and speculators recognize Christianity’s crucial role in their disciplines, and whether they see a place for Christianity in their vision of the future.

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A new power is arising. Saruman’s forces, often joined by some wild Men who don’t know better, are felling the good trees of Middle-earth to make weapons of war. In response, some would-be trolls come out of their hoards to stomp all over this land and forget the true meaning of Tolkien. How then do today’s fans still love The Lord of the Rings—books, films, and/or memes?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Winter’s Maiden by Morgan L. Busse 2. The Katrosi Revolution series by Jamie Foley 3. Lorehaven Guild: monthly book quests

Mission update* Lorehaven article: ‘Furiosa’ Quenches Hope and Doubles Down on Darkness, Marian Jacobs * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Introducing guest Evan CooneyEvan Cooney hosts The Middle-earth Mixer podcast (with occasional forays into conical themed ratios on social media). He is a Christian, husband, and father to a little girl. He’s also a fan of history, good literature, and the Philadelphia Eagles, with aspirations to be a writer.

MiddleEarthMixer.com
Podcast: The Middle-earth Mixer

Concession stand* This episode was inspired by Daniel Whyte IV’s recent Lorehaven article. * He has a fun, swashbuckling takes on some of these politicized critiques. * We may have the same. But here we aim to celebrate LOTR in all forms.

Quotes and notes

Does it bother me that Tolkien’s name and work are getting rucked through the mire of the modern political hellscape? Yes. Does it bother me that people are suddenly considered weirdo extremists for liking Middle-earth, investing in companies named after Aragorn’s sword, and nicknaming their friends after hobbits? Also yes.

But I’m more bothered by critics leveling their aim at the entire genre of fantasy, and casting those who enjoy life-giving, inspirational truths in fantastic stories—truths that apply to politics as much as anywhere else—as somehow outlandish.

Daniel Whyte IV, “Political Criticism of Middle-earth Fans is Stranger Than Fantasy“

“I wrote this story for you, but when I began it I had not realized that girls grow quicker than books. As a result you are already too old for fairy tales, and by the time it is printed and bound you will be older still. But some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again.”

C. S. Lewis, dedication to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

“And instead of being grave and mysterious like most Calormenes, they walked with a swing and let their arms and shoulders go free, and chatted and laughed. One was whistling. You could see that they were ready to be friends with anyone who was friendly, and didn’t give a fig for anyone who wasn’t. Shasta thought he had never seen anything so lovely in his life.”

C. S. Lewis, The Horse and His Boy

“If this picture of the young captain of Gondor absolutely ripping a heater gets more likes, then …” Evan Cooney reminds us that intentionally low-effort responses like this one can help gently roast certain assumed beliefs and bureaucrats.

Notable social media ratios from @MiddleEarthMixr include:* May 12, 2023 * March 26, 2023 * Aug. 8, 2024

Why classic fans love the original LOTR novels* Just for review, let’s summarize J. R. R. Tolkien and why he wrote LOTR.
This includes his love of languages and desire for a British mythology.
Since the 1960s, fans of many beliefs have journeyed into Middle-earth.
Why new fans love the now-classic LOTR films Last year we celebrated the 20-year anniversary of Return of the King*.
Peter Jackson’s epic introduced many more fans to Middle-earth lands.
One cannot engage Tolkien’s original novels without recognizing this.

This other LOTR meme appeals to many Christians fans.

Why newest fans also love sharing LOTR memes* Similarly, one can’t engage this fandom without recognizing the memes.
Stephen says any would-be critic of the fandom must first answer this question: What happened when Viggo Mortenson kicked the helmet?
Memes can be flippant, but they also quickly reflect much truth at once.

Com stationTop question for listeners How did you first discover LOTR: books, films, memes? * Or perhaps “all of them at once, I suppose”?*

Next on Fantastical TruthWhether it’s Middle-earth or a new novel Christians love, we’re often so affected that we think the Holy Spirit must be working in this artwork. We might say the story was “inspired,” similar to how we believe the Bible was inspired by the Holy Spirit. But as we celebrate stories #MadeByHumans, do we also believe God Himself does special work to help make these stories?

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You are being haunted.[1. Photo by grayom on Unsplash.] Specters from your past, or someone else’s past, lurk in your world. They twist meaning and distort symbols. They make you jump in the night, recoil from stories others find wonderful, and make the upright seem downright wicked. There is a cure that helps us imagine better, but first we must recognize the problem. What on earth is Church Back Home Syndrome? And why does this matter for Christian fantastical fans?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: The Nightmare Virus by Nadine Brandes 2. The Katrosi Revolution series by Jamie Foley 3. Lorehaven Guild: monthly book quests

Mission update Lorehaven action: back to reviews, The Wall last week, Ignite* this week * New articles as well, including some related to next week’s episode * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes

French culture and artists have been prone to clear anti-religious bias over the years. It’s a country whose faith has been waning despite the beauty and faithful tradition of the past. Do you want to do something about it?

Makoto Fujimura, Aug. 1, 2024 Twitter post

This defense—“you failed to interpret my art properly”—doesn’t absolve an artist. That kind of response is lazy and pretentious. It comes from an ego that assumes the artist’s perspective is the only proper reading of what has been communicated.

By blaming the viewer’s faulty interpretation, the artist asserts that their intent supersedes what their work has communicated. It denies the objective reality of how their art sits in time and space, its context in history and culture.

Jared Boggess, “The Lessons of the Paris Olympics Tableau,” Aug. 1, 2024 at ChristianityToday.com

The organizers claimed they wanted to promote a French culture that welcomed all people to the table and celebrated feasting and peace over war and conflict. They claimed it was centered around Dionysus, the Olympian God of wine and festivity. They have since said it wasn’t meant to depict the Last Supper at all but rather The Feast of the Gods; however, many performers continue to claim it was a reference to The Last supper. Either way, the table stretched over the Seine Friday night was not designed to offend Christians; it was designed to offend the exclusivity of the Christian god. It was designed to honor the new god of the self.

Chase Replogle, “The Last King Strangled with the Entrails of the Last Priest,” undated post, 2024

I was in France watching the opening ceremony live on TV with family and friends. The everyday French people I talked with (none of them believers) are by and large flabbergasted at the bad taste of it all. I also pray, therefore, that this might be a wake up call. We know what God does with what it meant for evil (Gen 50:20).

Stephanie Rousselle, July 30, 2024 Facebook post

Suppose one reads a story of filthy atrocities in the paper. Then suppose that something turns up suggesting that the story might not be quite true, or not quite so bad as it was made out. Is one’s first feeling, ‘Thank God, even they aren’t quite so bad as that,’ or is it a feeling of disappointment, and even a determination to cling to the first story for the sheer pleasure of thinking your enemies are as bad as possible? If it is the second then it is, I am afraid, the first step in a process which, if followed to the end, will make us into devils. You see, one is beginning to wish that black was a little blacker. If we give that wish its head, later on we shall wish to see grey as black, and then to see white itself as black. Finally we shall insist on seeing everything—God and our friends and ourselves included—as bad, and not be able to stop doing it: we shall be fixed for ever in a universe of pure hatred.

C. S. Lewis, Mere Christianity

Concession stand* If we tried to cover all these, we’d likely never get to the topic. * But in short: church trauma is real, it’s harmful, and it’s caused by sin. * We address this at length, along with the painful and slow healing from this, in our roundtable episode 152: How Can Christian Fantasy Fans Heal from Church Trauma? | with Marian Jacobs and L. G. McCary * You may prefer that episode. This one is for folks who feel in a better place. * CBHS stands for “Church Back Home Syndrome.” Stephen made this up. * In that spirit, we may refer to CBHS “victims,” even if they use their real victim experience to become villains, effectively real and tragic villains. * “Church” is shorthand. Could be a family, school, group, or employer. * CBHS is challenging to explore, so let’s start by carefully defining this.

What exactly is ‘Church Back Home Syndrome’?* Once you know the common symptoms, it’s a little hard to unsee.
But the symptoms will also vary between people who suffer this.
Imagine, if you will, how would Stephen’s own Syndrome manifest?
He may have grown up hearing, “Don’t read the Wally McDoogle series!”
If he was a big fan, this would have already been very hard to hear.
But if the bad judgment was accompanied by abuse, so much the worse.
Now, make the problem even worse: hearing this from different places.
Imagine, no matter where you go, at a formative age, being told this lie.
But that’s not a syndrome. It’s just a terrible tale of bad religious folks.
As we discuss, recovery from this nastiness, even trauma, takes time.

Imagine a false “healing”: the Syndrome metastasized Now imagine, if you will, that Stephen grows up and escapes this evil. * He wasn’t able to find intelligent rebuttals from loving, caring people. * Instead, he found this support from a religious or even secular cult. * They got there first. Now, he associates the “cure” with another illness. * Now, he’s inducted into a movement to avenge the wrongs done to him. * That begins the origin story. He’s not just a victim. He’s another villain. * And in response, he begins a quest to rid the world of this special sin. * In his new world, there are no other sins. Only bad rules against fiction. * In his new reality, everything* is about “church bad, anything else better.” * The Church Back Home Syndrome has metastasized. His case is chronic. * In reality, people suffer this because of very complicated backstories. * They had a bad church, family, youth group, school, or organization. * One way or another, that experience leads them to very narrowed focus.

How does CBHS begin to distort our reality?* Let’s move beyond imagination. CBHS victims may think irrationally.
Often when they’re talking “politics,” it’s not really about the politics.
For instance, dare we mention it, consider the image of a “border wall.”
That’s a hot issue, but many people aren’t really thinking about issues.
They think about themselves. How do I relate to the “wall” as symbol?
Do I feel like I’m stranded outside “the wall,” or secure inside “the wall”?
Similarly, CBHS victims will choose to “punch church and coddle culture.”
They hear bad stories about Christians and assume they’re all true.
Or they hear bad stories from Christians and assume they’re suspect.
After all, the Christian is just a rabble-rousing culture-war mercenary.
And after all, Christians only seek power for himself and his friends.
Of course, some Christians behave this way. But so do many others.
There is more than one villain in the world. CBHS victims refuse to see it.
And if you resemble that foe in any way, the victim will do a face-swap.
Instead of seeing you as a person, the victim sees threats to be defeated.

Imagine a limited view of church: “ministry myopia” Or, just last week after we planned this show, new debates broke out. * At their heart is disagreement over what “the church is always doing.” * People say, “The church does too much about X, not enough about Y.” * Stephen is allergic (maybe legalistic) about church over-generalizations. * That blaming phrase is usually a tell about the complainer’s own church. * Or it may be a tell about the propaganda the complainer has heard. * You can “catch” secondhand CBHS from victims you empathize with. * These may be real victims. Or they think* they are victims, based on lies. * For instance, they may wrongly think Hell is an evil, “abusive” concept. * In this case, the problem is not real church trauma, but toxic empathy.

Where can CBHS distort excellent fantasy fiction?* Having defined CBHS and showed how it distorts reality, we come to it.
In short, CBHS distorts fiction by making everything about its message.
For the author, reality is defined by “church bad, anything else better.”
That impulse soon leads to simple heroes/victims and cartoon villains.
As an example, we at Lorehaven have received books with this posture.
We’ve forgotten the titles and wouldn’t (rudely) name names anyway.
But in short, these stories clearly had an axe to grind against Christians.
This made the stories not just anti-Christian or anti-Church but just bad.
Evil church leaders of the past supposedly lied to you about Jesus Christ.
And evil church leaders of the present/future just want to hurt people.
The result? Victim heroes without agency. Cheap villains without nuance.

CBHS will not only corrupt your fandoms, but your heart Worse than bad stories, CBHS slowly poisons everything we have loved. * The quest for vengeance makes us dig two graves: for reality and fiction. * Even now, it’s difficult to find CBHS victims who genuinely love* things. * Increasingly they see everything as tools to serve the vengeance quest. * They effectively reject true heroes, good stories, and beautiful worlds. * They resemble the villains of stories who become similarly pragmatic. * And, ultimately, they (as Lewis said) want “to see black a little blacker.”

Com stationTop question for listeners Have you or a loved one suffered Church Back Home Syndrome?* * Which stories or other creative works helped you begin to recover from hurt or worse? * And what kind of stories or other creative works might actually prevent you from healing?

Next on Fantastical TruthWhether because of this Syndrome or other challenges, some people can’t help trying to co-opt or reject fantastical stories for political purposes. Most recently that’s been happening with The Lord of the Rings. Especially when politicians or “bad” fans say, “Hey, I really like Middle-earth,” critics come out of their troll-hoards to stomp all over this land. Let’s explore this weird effort to remix Middle-earth.

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“Then the LORD said to Joshua, ‘Stretch out the javelin that is in your hand toward Ai, for I will give it into your hand.’” Well, there you have it. God opposes artificial intelligence. But when many people see advantages to these generative tools, how can we celebrate the virtue of stories made by humans? Lorehaven has one way: a hashtag campaign (along with buttons and book stickers) just launched at Realm Makers called #MadeByHumans. We’ll talk about this important idea and cover each day of the conference for Realm Makers 2024.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: The Nightmare Virus by Nadine Brandes 2. The Katrosi Revolution series by Jamie Foley 3. Lorehaven Open World at Realm Makers

Mission update* Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Day 1: Keynote ideas, fan reunions, real imaginationDay 2: Realm Awards, worldview lens, cosplay wins Song of the Selkies* Wins Book of the Year at the 2024 Realm Awards, July 20, 2024

Day 3: Guild quests, resisting machines, future hopeNext on Fantastical TruthOn the road for Realm Makers, without notes or home studio, we like you await our next topic as we keep seeking and finding His fantastical truth.

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Cain Cross once dreamed of helping make dream-worlds. Now their world is being attacked by another pandemic. This one strikes as you sleep, sending victims into dark tunnels of despair to fight for their waking lives. We seek a cure for The Nightmare Virus, the new YA sci-fi thriller from Nadine Brandes.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing at Realm Makers 2. The Katrosi Revolution series by Jamie Foley 3. Lorehaven Open World at Realm Makers

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: The Nightmare Virus* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes* “I Process Big Questions Through Story,” interview with Nadine Brandes * “Why Our Dreams May Tell Stories As We Sleep,” Zack Russell at Lorehaven

Introducing guest Nadine Brandes

Nadine Brandes has been known to do wild things (like ride a sleeper train across Russia) in the name of book research. She’s the four-time Carol Award–winning author of seven young adult books and has been a professional fiction editor for over a decade. She is passionate about Jesus, motherhood, and creating with the Creator. When she’s not busy inventing worlds and magic systems, she’s adventuring through Middle Earth with her Auror husband and their four Halfling children.

NadineBrandes.com
Origin story: biblical truth, fantastic imagination* How to process big questions through story: from death to magical life
Crossing genres, from sci-fi dystopias to historical fantasies
Everyone has dreams, but no one programs them Creating this different strain of Virus*: modern and genre inspirations
Balancing light and darkness: story realism versus reader responsibility
Why Our Dreams May Tell Stories As We Sleep
The futures of reality and fantastical worlds* Predictions for Christian-made storytelling in genres and theme
New stories from Nadine Brandes coming in 2025 and beyond

Com station Have good or bad dreams helped remind you of fantastical truth?*

Next on Fantastical Truth“Then the LORD said to Joshua, ‘Stretch out the javelin that is in your hand toward Ai, for I will give it into your hand.’” Well, there you have it. God opposes artificial intelligence. But when many people see advantages to these generative tools, how can we celebrate the virtue of stories made by humans? Lorehaven has one way: a hashtag campaign (along with buttons and book stickers) just launched at Realm Makers called #MadeByHumans!

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Twenty years ago, two authors, one publisher, twelve action thriller novels, and forty teen spinoff books came to a grand finale with the fictionalized return of Jesus Christ to Earth. One of those top authors, marriage and prophecy teacher Tim LaHaye, has since passed to his eternal rest. The other author who’s written hundreds of novels, Jerry Jenkins, is still working! And today, Jenkins joins our studio to explore the Left Behind legacy.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: The Nightmare Virus by Nadine Brandes 2. The Katrosi Revolution series by Jamie Foley 3. Lorehaven Open World at Realm Makers

Mission update* Lorehaven reviews * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Introducing guest Jerry JenkinsJerry Jenkins has authored more than 195 books with sales of over 70 million copies, including the best-selling Left Behind series. He is also former vice president for publishing and former chairman of the board of trustees for the Moody Bible Institute of Chicago.

Jerry’s writing has appeared in Time, Reader’s Digest, Parade, Guideposts, and dozens of Christian periodicals. Twenty-one of his books have reached The New York Times best-seller list (seven debuting number one).

JerryJenkins.com
Pre-LB: from sports stars to an end-times thriller* Young Jerry started wanting to play baseball and covering sports events.
He eventually moved to specific ministry writing and editorial work.
He went big writing books with of athletes and famous Christians.
For decades he was plugging away before the Left Behind series pitch.
He wrote in many genres: fiction, nonfiction, biography, “journeyman.”
In fact, Left Behind was the 125th book Jenkins ever wrote.
Jenkins shares more about the origin in his book Writing For The Soul.
- Stephen has read it and recommends it, and not just for writers.
Mid-LB: from end-time thrillers to rapturous sales* The Left Behind series went from a trilogy to four books to … how many?
Stephen caught up to the series in September 1997 with Nicolae.
So he was looking for Soul Harvest in summer 1998—what a year!
Then wasn’t it Apollyon (1999) that first hit the NYT bestseller list?
From there, Jenkins and LaHaye were releasing two books each year.
We had a Left Behind full-cast audio drama, VHS movies, and everything.
The initial series ended with book 12, Glorious Appearing (2004).
But then came prequels! With a surprising amount of Merlin callbacks?

Just-for-fun questions:* If you were writing the series today, what elements would you change? + Examples: social media > message board; politics are way worse + Tsion Ben-Judah would certainly have an underground podcast + The Mark of the Beast could easily be run by a big-tech company + There would be more sexual revolution in the Global Community * Do you have a favorite of the 12+ books, heroes, or even plagues? * What was the strangest and/or most fun negative or positive feedback?

Post-LB: from a record run to a blockbuster legacy* Christian fiction had a big moment, at least for end-times thrillers.
- Now many novels labeled “Christian sci-fi” are more of the same.
Left Behind was followed by many other secular dystopian novels.
We even saw some secular, Christless retellings of the rapture concept.
Jenkins went on to buy the Writers Guild to train Christian creators.
He wrote many other books, including biblical fiction with The Chosen.
Our own L.G. McCary recently found Riven (2009) and absolutely loved it.
Jenkins could have retired long ago, yet didn’t. Why not? Will he ever?
What is he looking forward to doing most after the end times/Heaven?

Com station How do you prepare for the return of Jesus at any moment?*

One hero of the Guild heard episode 219 with Todd Busteed:

Really enjoyed this episode! The audio drama was how I first encountered the Left Behind series as a wee lass. I was obsessed with it! And then I picked up the books…. But I have always considered the audio production to be superior. Listening to all these behind-the-scenes details was amazing! Thanks for both the nostalgia and the new insights.

Next on Fantastical TruthCain Cross once dreamed of helping make dream-worlds. Now their world is being attacked by another pandemic. This one strikes as you sleep, sending victims into dark tunnels of despair to fight for their waking lives. We seek a cure for The Nightmare Virus, the new YA sci-fi thriller from Nadine Brandes.

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Some Christians think that in an end-times Rapture event, young children automatically go to Heaven.[1. Background photo by David Moum on Unsplash.] But what about older kids? Such as teen rebels who disobey parents, won’t go to church, and reject Jesus? Left Behind: The Kids explored the exploits of the Young Tribulation Force, and was adapted for its own fantastic dramatic audio series by today’s guest: Darby Kern.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: The Nightmare Virus by Nadine Brandes 2. The Katrosi Revolution series by Jamie Foley 3. Lorehaven Open World at Realm Makers

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: The Nightmare Virus* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Introducing guest Darby Kern

Darby Kern, the creator of The Jake Muller Adventures, has been a restaurant manager, a medical writer, an occupational health coordinator, a pharmacist, and a soda-jerk. Now he is an award-winning filmmaker and the writer of hundreds of radio dramas including Left Behind: The Kids, Left Behind: The Rising, Kid’s Corner (Back To God), Lamplighter Theatre, and Heirloom Audio’s The Extraordinary Adventures of G. A. Henty. He is the writer of several stories and dramas for the Abide App.

He lives in Titletown, USA where he works as a freelance writer.

DarbyKern.com
JakeMullerAdventures.com
What led you to faith, imagination, and LB?* Origin story: from church to comics, from eschatology to aliens
First steps into the worlds of audio drama, then writing for drama
How to connect with a fledgling studio and play in the sandbox
Turning forty books into 72 audio episodes* The auditions of casting for older kids and teens left behind
The challenges of adaptation for dialogue, subplots, conversions, action
The trials of speed-running the Tribulation (especially books 13–40)

Darby Kern adapted the 48-volume YA books for the 72-episode Left Behind: The Kids audio drama series from GapDigital studios.

Post: From Glorious Appearing to alien intrusions* Everything sad comes untrue when Jesus returns to renew all things.
How did you, Todd, and the crew adapt this version of blessed hope?
From there, how did it go with the spooktacular, underrated The Rising?
Where then has your work taken you, most lately with Jake Muller?
Since we spoke, what’s new with Jake and his paranormal investigations?
Which creatures will Jake next encounter in sterling cinematic audio?

Com station How do you prepare for a wicked world, tribulation or otherwise?*

Next on Fantastical TruthTwenty years ago, two authors, one publisher, twelve action thriller novels, and forty teen spinoff books came to a grand finale with the fictionalized return of Jesus Christ to Earth. One of those top authors, marriage and prophecy teacher Tim LaHaye, has since passed to his eternal rest. The other author who’s written hundreds of novels, Jerry B. Jenkins, is still working! And next week, Jenkins joins our studio to explore the Left Behind legacy.

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It’s not an audiobook. It’s also not a movie series. Directly between these lies the medium of audio drama, such as 144 episodes about the end of days. Based on the best-selling novels, how did GAP Digital, working with Tyndale House Publishers, proudly present the dramatic audio edition of Left Behind?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing at Realm Makers 2. The Katrosi Revolution by Jamie Foley 3. Lorehaven Open World at Realm Makers

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: Steal the Morrow* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand If you prefer an end-times debate, you can go to episode 216. * The Left Behind audio drama is often badly confused with audiobooks*. * This is a high-production, cinematic streaming series with one quirk. * You bring the pictures because radio drama is a theater of the mind. * And indeed the drama can be very intense, often more than the books. * Finally, we’ve spoken with Chris Fabry, who adapted the series for audio.

Introducing guest Todd Busteed

Todd Busteed founded GAP Digital, a Chicago-based audio drama studio. From 1999 to 2004, Busteed directed and produced Left Behind: The Dramatic Audio Series, created by a team of writers, actors, musicians, foley artists, and sound engineers. GAP Digital has provided production engineering for many productions, including Adventures in Odyssey, Focus on the Family Radio Theatre, and VeggieTales. Meanwhile, Todd lent his voice to the entire Bible (NLT) and many other audiobooks. He is a regular announcer for nationwide events and races.

GAPDigital.com

ToddBusteed.com

Left Behind: The Dramatic Audio Series on Apple Podcasts (only episodes 1–48)

Left Behind: The Dramatic Audio Series on Spotify (only episodes 1–48)

Life before Left Behind: biblical truth and fantastic imagination? GAP Digital origin, Wheaton studio, work with Adventures in Odyssey*

How to assemble a Left Behind Adaptation Force* Todd shares his experience with audio engineering and the LB series
The initial pitch for a Left Behind audio drama to Tyndale House
Original expectations and recruitment of actors, music, engineers

Twenty years ago, GAP Digital released the final twelve episodes of Left Behind: The Dramatic Audio Series.

Heralding the end-times from the eyes to the ears Left Behind production challenges, especially when the books went big*.
“Faster, faster, you fool!” Going from one drama a year to two of them.
Conversion scenes, turning sermons into “podcasts,” sensitive subjects.
Disaster theater! Providential plagues call for special audio effects to “show” world wars, earthquakes, hailstorms, comets, demon locusts.
(Stephen himself, as an early fanboy, “consulted” on sound effect ideas.)
This started a spinoff series, The Kids: Left Behind; we’ll explore that next time.
Next: fan reception, killing Antichrist, planes, guillotines, Armageddon
Finally the return of Jesus in Glorious Appearing (adapted by Darby Kern)
Adding a narrator, casting Jesus, voicing Satan, and intro to Millennium
Legacy of Left Behind: The Dramatic Audio Series* GAP Digital created 144 episodes, 12 episodes per original novel.
The studio also produced a drama of Left Behind prequel The Rising
End of an end-times era, on to other pre-pre-Tribulation missions

Com station Which do you prefer, audiobooks or cinematic audio dramatization?*

Next on Fantastical TruthSome Christians think that in an end-times Rapture event, young children automatically go to Heaven. But what about older kids? Such as teen rebels who disobey parents, won’t go to church, and reject Jesus? Left Behind: The Kids explored the exploits of the Young Tribulation Force, and was adapted for its own fantastic dramatic audio series by our next guest: Darby Kern.

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When the Tribulation arrives, you will need a Tribulation Force. So it was with the Left Behind series, when blockbuster success for grown-up readers led Tyndale House in want of a spinoff series. Thus was born again Left Behind: The Kids, all forty of them, overseen by series main author Jerry Jenkins but most written by today’s special guest: author and speaker Chris Fabry.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing at Realm Makers 2. Realm Makers 2024 writers’ conference 3. Lorehaven Open World at Realm Makers

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: Water’s Break, Steal the Morrow* (June 28) * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand* Want to debate the end-times? Go to episode 216 and do that there. * Even many Christians with other views can celebrate this series’ success. * This is episode 3 of our Left Behind Legacy summer celebration series.

Introducing guest Chris Fabry

Chris Fabry is an award-winning author and radio personality. He’s the award-winning novelist of Dogwood, June Bug, Almost Heaven, The Promise of Jesse Woods, A Piece of the Moon, and most recently Saving Grayson; he also wrote the novelizations for the popular Christian social drama films War Room, Overcomer, and Lifemark. Fabry also wrote more than 50 novels for children and young adults. He coauthored the Left Behind: The Kids series with Jerry B. Jenkins and Tim LaHaye, as well as the Red Rock Mysteries and the Wormling series with Jerry B. Jenkins. He is host of the daily radio program Chris Fabry Live on Moody Radio and is also heard on Love Worth Finding as well as Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman. A native of West Virginia, Chris and his wife, Andrea, now live in Arizona and are the parents of nine children.

ChrisFabry.com
Chris Fabry Live
Pre: Finding faith, imagination, and teen heroes* How did you first discover biblical faith and fantastical imagination?
Can you recall the first time you learned about the rapture concept?
Or learned about the Left Behind series and its blockbuster success?
Mid: Young Trib Force vs. Global Community

Chris Fabry, a trusted colleague, wrote Left Behind: The Kids from book six through forty. I lobbied for years to get his name on the cover where it is now.

Writing for the Soul, Jerry B. Jenkins (page 54)
How on pre-tribulational Earth did you write so many LB Kids novels?
What were the challenges of working with, say, “age of accountability”?
Any special methods? Favorite characters? Books? Or even plagues?

I have collaborated on children’s fiction, working with my friend Chris Fabry. My own kids are all well past their teens now, but Chris and his wife have nine children, so he was up on the jargon and what’s happening to kids the ages of our readers. We plotted together, he did the writing, and I did the final edit and/or rewrite. Again, it worked because there was one primary writer—Chris.

Writing for the Soul, Jerry B. Jenkins (page 146)

LBK often answered unresolved plots, characters, ideas from the main.
Some ideas crossed into the dramatic audio series, like more comets!
We also finally met militia members and non-Christian prepper types.
Also, as I recall, the kids actually tried casting out the demon locusts.
What was the response to this popular series that scared/thrilled fans?
Were there criticisms? Conversions? How many Judd/Vicki ‘shippers?
Post: Life after Left Behind in the literary sections* Since then, you’ve moved into the podcast space and different books.
Stephen loved your audiobook read of Heaven and your contemporary memoir (with a tough of fantastical intrigue) The Promise of Jesse Woods.
How Christian fans can enjoy pop-level thrillers as well as literary stories.

Com station For Left Behind: The Kids readers: favorite heroes or moments?*

Next on Fantastical TruthIt’s not an audiobook. It’s not a movie series. Directly between these lies the medium of audio drama, such as 144 episodes about the end of days. Based on the best-selling novels, how did GapDigital, working with Tyndale House Publishers, proudly present the dramatic audio edition of Left Behind?

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The year is 1995. A new creative power has arisen, partnering a Christian marriage/prophecy teacher with a “journeyman” author of fiction and sports biographies. Together they forged a Christian thriller juggernaut that later hit The New York Times bestseller list and started global conversations about the world’s ending. How did the Left Behind series become such a blockbuster?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Breath of Bones by Tricia Goyer and Nathan Goyer 2. Realm Makers 2024 writers’ conference 3. Lorehaven Open World at Realm Makers

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: Blood of the Stars, Water’s Break* (June 21) * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand* This is part 2 of our Left Behind Legacy series, celebrating this franchise * For those hoping to debate end times, Zack and Stephen beat you to it. * We like Christian fiction. We think it’s great stuff. So was the LB series. * Our other podcast episodes can defend the idea, the label, the genre.

Introducing guest Dan Balow

Dan Balow started in the Christian publishing business in 1983—marketing, sales, audiobooks, digital publishing, acquisitions, and beyond. He worked at Tyndale House Publishers from the early ’90s to the mid-2000s with hundreds of authors and thousands of books. He’s been an agent and publisher, board member of the Evangelical Christian Publisher’s Association and chair of the Global Publishers Alliance, and original member of the advisory board of the Christy Awards. He and his wife Carol live in Wheaton Illinois; they have four grown children and seven grandchildren.

Dan Balow at The Steve Laube Literary Agency
WriteToPublish.com
Pre: From book fan to head of Tyndale marketing* Dan shares his personal origin story with biblical faith and book-making.
We learn more about Tyndale House Publishers, its origins and legacy.
Finally we hear about this intriguing late-1995 novel by LaHaye/Jenkins.
Mid: From bestselling book to blockbuster series Left Behind* grew to a series that quickly outgrew even bestseller status.
Soul Harvest (1998) preorders went insane on a new site called Amazon.
Apollyon (1999) reached New York Times bestseller list (secular retailers).
From there, LB gained an audio drama series and a direct-to-VHS movie.
A spinoff teen/YA series was authored by Chris Fabry (with Jenkins).
Stephen recalls hearing AM talk radio ads for The Indwelling (2000).
And to this fan, things didn’t slow down until Glorious Appearing (2004).
After that, we still got three prequels plus Kingdom Come (2007).
Post: From the end times to new book beginnings* The Left Behind series went on to keep selling titles well into the present.
Dan Balow became a secret agent for The Steve Laube Literary Agency.
He took charge of the Write to Publish conference for Christian creators.

Com station What was your first Christian fandom, Left Behind or otherwise?*

Luke listened to the Left Behind Legacy series debut, ep. 216:

I believe the great tribulation and the millennium are both expressions of God’s mercy. In the first case, He uses suffering as a megaphone to call humanity to repent. Then, Her graciously gives us a thousand years of peace, that nonetheless ends in rebellion. From a ‘story’ perspective, the point is to prove His Long-suffering and Justice in punishing sin.

Next on Fantastical TruthWhen the Tribulation arrives, you will need a Tribulation Force. So it was with the Left Behind series, when blockbuster success for grown-up readers led Tyndale House in want of a spinoff series. Thus was born Left Behind: The Kids, all forty of them, overseen by series main author Jerry Jenkins but most written by our next special guest: author and speaker Chris Fabry.

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It’s the end! It’s the end! Or rather, this could only be… the beginning. Sure, it’s cliché to doomsay, but Christians have enjoyed doing this for centuries. So, next week, Stephen and Zack want in on this end-times debating action. This will be a knock-down, drag-out, facts-and-feelings fight that will divide denominations and result in a lot of colorful, complex charts—or maybe it’ll just be some slightly heated fun to start our new series: Left Behind Legacy.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Breath of Bones by Tricia Goyer and Nathan Goyer 2. Realm Makers 2024 writers’ conference 3. Lorehaven Guild: The Visitation

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: Breath of Bones, Blood of the Stars* * Stephen’s new article: Should I Let My Son Read Harry Potter Stories? * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand Some prophecy views are older than others; they may be right or wrong. * For whatever His reasons, God has let the Church debate about this. * “It’s a prestigious line of work, with a long and glorious tradition.” * Perhaps the Lord felt we needed less-clear doctrines to keep us busy. * To some extent, we’ve “lived in the end times” since the New Testament. * So when people say “We in Revelations,” yes, correct. Always have been. * (By the way: it’s Revelation, not Revelations*. Violators of this are heretics.) * Yes, we’re aware that some end-times views are used to support evil ideas. * End-times topics are great for discussion-starters with non-Christians.

Quotes and notes Different Christian Views of Revelation Explained, Mike Winger on YouTube * My WARNING about the rapture, Mike Winger on YouTube * Questions about the End Times (All), GotQuestions.org * Four Views on the Book of Revelation by Stanley N. Gundry, C. Marvin Pate * Revelation: Four Views, A Parallel Commentary* by Steve Gregg

What do Christians think about the end times?* Off the top of our heads, and with re-research, here are the basic ones.
Premillennial, Jesus returns before a literal 1,000-year reign in Earth.
- Classic pre-millennial, which skips a literal period of Tribulation
- Dispensational pre-millennial, which includes a literal Tribulation
  - Pre-tribulation: a “Rapture” event before the Tribulation
  - Mid-tribulation: a “Rapture” event in the middle of Tribulation
  - Post-tribulation: a single (“Rapture”?) event when Jesus returns
Amillennial: less clear about Tribulation, but millennial reign is figurative
- Some also believe many prophecies are fulfilled across history
Postmillennial: Jesus returns after a literal 1,000-year peacetime on Earth
- Can include some beliefs of “preterism” about AD 70 fulfillment
- Orthodox version still anticipates Jesus’s real physical return in future
Zack vs. Stephen—a battle to the end (times)* Zack’s position: Dispensational-ish premillennial with a post-trib variant
Stephen’s position: Uncertain, maybe amillennial, but keeping Tribulation
Left Behind’s position: Dispensational pre-millennial with pretrib variant
Where all great Christians can agree and hope* Jesus is returning, in the future, at a time that no one can predict.
We should look forward to, not dread, His return, and take comfort.
Generally life conditions will get worse right before He finally arrives.
God may allow this uncertainty to help keep us from bigger issues.
Christians of good will and gospel hearts have accepted all these views.
Instead of risking idolizing our position, we can have fun debating them.
Whenever He finally does return, there will be surprises enough for all!
No matter your view, the Left Behind series is actually kind of awesome.

Com station What’s your position on the end times, in the past or present?*

Peter Van Kauwenbergh commented on Episode 37 on YouTube:

Basically it boils down to there is practicing the occult in real life and fictional magic in a story. In a story it is just that, a story.

Next on Fantastical TruthThe year is 1995. A new creative power has arisen, partnering a Christian marriage/prophecy teacher with a “journeyman” author of fiction and sports biographies. They forged a Christian thriller juggernaut that later hit The New York Times bestseller list and started conversations about the world’s ending. Dan Balow, former marketing director of Tyndale House Publishers, helps us explore how the Left Behind series became such a blockbuster?

Revelation: Four Views, A Parallel Commentary, Revised & Updated Edition

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In the days of the second World War, the Nazi party is taking over Europe and persecuting the Jewish people. But this time, one respected journalist and the descendent of a famous rabbi join forces to create a new mystical being to guard the innocent: the golem. How does that go? Tricia Goyer and Nathan Goyer know, and they’ll join us in the studio to explore alternate-historical fantasy in their upcoming novel Breath of Bones.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Lady of Basilikas by Ronie Kendig 2. Realm Makers 2024 writers’ conference 3. Lorehaven Guild: The Visitation

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: This Present Darkness, Breath of Bones* * Starting next week: the Left Behind Legacy series * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Tricia Goyer and Nathan Goyer (2024)

Introducing guest Tricia GoyerTricia Goyer is a celebrated writer, speaker, and co-host of the Daily Bible Podcast. As an author of 90 books, Tricia has won four Golden Scrolls, two Carols, and a Christian Book Award. In addition to Christy and Gold Medallion nominations, her book sales exceed 4 million copies. Tricia is a highly sought-after conference speaker, sharing on writing, parenting, and purposeful living. Tricia’s most recent work, Breath of Bones, is a historical steampunk fantasy co-authored with her son Nathan Goyer.

TriciaGoyer.com
Facebook: @AuthorGriciaGoyer
Instagram: @TriciaGoyer
DailyBiblePodCoffeeClub.Substack.com

Introducing guest Nathan GoyerNathan Goyer is an upstart designer and science fiction author, who has been writing since he was young. He has written the novel Bask: City of Shadows and solo-developed the mobile RPG game Heedless, which has surpassed 30,000 downloads. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Arkansas Little Rock, he is now pushing forward with new endeavors, starting with his newest novel, Breath of Bones, which he wrote alongside his fellow author and mother, Tricia Goyer.

How a homeschool family learned to love fantasy* Early origins: Tricia’s career and work in many different fiction genres
Nathan’s role in this journey, as the whole family travels to events
Recap of recent conferences in Pigeon Forge, Branson, and beyond
Behold golems and alt-history in Breath of Bones

Kateřina Dubová has always aspired to walk in her father’s footsteps as a respected journalist, and the Second World War presents a unique opportunity for her to prove her worth to the world. A tip about an assassination attempt on a high-ranking Nazi official, Reinhard Heydrich, the “Butcher of Prague” leads Kateřina into the shadows of the Nazi occupation. Soon she discovers things are not as they seem.

As intrigue unfurls, Kateřina joins forces with Josef Loew, a descendant of the famous Rabbi Loew, renowned for creating a mystical guardian in the form of a golem to protect the souls of 16th-century Jews in Prague. In the chaos of war, some believe a new golem can once again bring help to those in need.

Like flickering candles in the abyss, Kateřina and Josef work to protect the innocent and end the evil that plagues their world. Yet, in their quest to save the Jewish people, have they inadvertently created a new danger? Could the very entity they had forged to protect become their greatest enemy?
What’s next for both Goyers and their new worlds* Tricia and Nathan Goyer will appear at July’s Realm Makers event
We hear any planned release date(s) for Clockwork Chronicles sequel(s)
Many likely meetings as we all prepare for the 2025 conference season

Com station What’s your favorite World War 2 story and/or robot story?*

Next on Fantastical TruthIt’s the end! It’s the end! Or rather, this could only be… the beginning. Sure, it’s cliché to doomsay, but Christians have enjoyed doing this for centuries. So, next week, Stephen and Zack want in on this end-times debating action. This will be a knock-down, drag-out, facts-and-feelings fight that will divide denominations and result in a lot of colorful, complex charts—or maybe it’ll just be some slightly heated fun to start our new series: Left Behind Legacy.

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What if the spirit of antichrist came to your town? Burned-out pastor Travis Jordan is on break from ministry after the death of his wife. But then his small city of Antioch faces great signs and wonders from a new prophet who claims to be a better christ than the true Jesus Christ. Just in time for our next summer book quest, challenge your faith and seek the true Savior for the 25-year anniversary of Frank Peretti’s supernatural thriller The Visitation!

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Lady of Basilikas by Ronie Kendig 2. Realm Makers 2024 writers’ conference 3. Lorehaven Guild: The Visitation

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: The Visitation* * Coming this summer: the Left Behind Legacy series * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes* This Present (and Future) Peretti, Gene Edward Veith for WORLD Magazine, Oct. 25, 1997 * All novels by Frank Peretti we’ve listed in the Lorehaven Library * Episode 9. What If the Armies of Hell Tried to Invade Your Hometown? | This Present Darkness * Frank E. Peretti to Give Keynote Address at Realm Makers Writers Conference This July, E. Stephen Burnett, Feb. 2021 * In Appreciation of Christian Supernatural Fiction Trailblazer Frank Peretti, Rebecca P. Minor, July 2021

Frank Peretti vs. demons, untruth, and fun fans Peretti began with kids’ thriller The Door in the Dragon’s Throat* (1985)
Then his first grown-up novel This Present Darkness arrived in 1986
After a slow start, more fans (including Christian celebrities) loved it
A direct sequel, Piercing the Darkness, followed in 1989
Peretti also wrote a pro-life novella called Tilly (1988)
Fans also remember Prophet (1992) and The Oath (1995)
That’s eight novels for grown-ups, not all angels-versus-demons thrillers
Yet to this day, fans still remember Peretti only for those two books
Yet one 1997 WORLD Magazine article explains why Peretti changed.
It also predicts the novel he would have published just two years later.
The Visitation: a new take on supernatural thriller* We summarize the story’s premise, but avoid plot/character spoilers.
This time, all demons (there are some) usually stick to the shadows.
They don’t operate in the world so much as within many churches.
Peretti, however, critiques with affection, not deconstructing.
Like the gospel itself, he focuses the message on people.
Travis and many others get tragic or redemptive arcs.
Today’s fans may need healing from ‘church stuff’* Before the book quest, Stephen re-read the novel, audiobook this time.
Peretti’s take on “deconstruction” and real church trauma ages well.
He sympathizes with the deceived, yet warns of spiritual threats.
With compassion and honesty, he explores real church trauma.
But the solution remains Jesus, with or without “church stuff.”
Right or wrong, “church stuff” is a means to His great end.

Com stationTop question for listeners Has God used stories to help you reject false christs and seek Jesus?*

Jason Brown had thoughts about ep. 212 about sensual heroines:

Stephen, you were almost correct about the body scan, but it was based on a Korean model. The director’s wife was the art director. The existence of the game has showcased the hypocrisy of gaming journalism because those who slander SB for being too “sensual” praise games like Baldur’s Gate 3 and The Last of Us Part 2 for their explicit sensual content and mock gamers who like Eve. While there are gamers who enjoy Eve for the WRONG reasons, there are those like me enjoying the environment and trying not to die every five minutes (or seconds) from tough battles. No one in the game comments on Eve’s physique, but call her “Angel” (for lore-based reasons, yes, the game is full of religious imagery everywhere). There’s plenty of women gamers who also like the game and praise Adam’s masculine appearance.

Next on Fantastical TruthIn the days of the second World War, the Nazi party is taking over Europe and persecuting the Jewish people. But this time, one respected journalist and the descendent of a famous rabbi join forces to create a new mystical being to guard the innocent: the golem. How does that go? Tricia Goyer and Nathan Goyer know, and they’ll join us in the studio to explore alternate-historical fantasy in their upcoming novel Breath of Bones.

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Why do we see, or rather not go to see, so many weirdly cringe movies with plots and dialogue that seem designed to be “so bad it’s good”? How come goofy sidekicks, obvious political agendas, and other strange stories get their own corporate attention, while newer and more earnest stories get passed by the wayside? There’s one big possible reason hiding in plain sight, and it’s the mind-blowing answer that They don’t want you to know.

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Lady of Basilikas by Ronie Kendig 2. Realm Makers 2024 writers’ conference 3. Lorehaven Guild: The Visitation

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: Lumen and The Visitation* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand* We don’t hate memes. We like memes. We quote memes way too much. Like Disaster Girl. * “Meme” was coined by Richard Dawkins to mean “contagious ideas.” * That meaning continues to be part of how we understand the term. * Yet “meme” now also means funny pictures, tropes, quotes, references. * People might use the term overlapping with the definition of “tropes.”

Actor Max McLean portrays Screwtape in a stage version of The Screwtape Letters.

Memes can make us feel more casual and flippant.* Stephen would compare memes like seasoning for culture and life.
A little salt, a little pepper, maybe some hot sauce (for political memes).
But if we tried to life on “meme culture” as a main course, we’d starve.
We would also be poisoned, our tastes literally coarsened, by all this.
That’s why we try to discipline ourselves not to get too much into these.
Related to this, Scripture cautions against mockers and scoffers.
Stephen cites Lewis’s view of the word flippancy in The Screwtape Letters.
In letter 11, Undersecretary Screwtape expounds on human humor.
He classifies humor as (a) joy, (b) fun, (c) The Joke Proper, (d) flippancy.

But flippancy is the best [devilish use of humor] of all. In the first place it is very economical. Only a clever human can make a real Joke about virtue, or indeed about anything else; any of them can be trained to talk as if virtue were funny. Among flippant people the joke is always assumed to have been made. No one actually makes it; but every serious subject is discussed in a manner which implies that they have already found a ridiculous side to it.

If prolonged, the habit of Flippancy builds up around a man the finest armour-plating against the Enemy that I know, and it is quite free from the dangers inherent in the other sources of laughter. It is a thousand miles away from joy: it deadens, instead of sharpening, the intellect; and it excites no affection between those who practise it.

People and celebrities and stories get reduced to fleeting images/hijinks.
Some memes are flippant. Others are proper jokes about human quirks.
Stephen has made some funny pictures and even gone (mildly) viral.
In theory, this podcast or other Lorehaven content could start memes.
One wonders: could we help make the word fantastical more popular?
Memes can infect our hearts with toxic notions.* In storytelling and culture debates, people are basing beliefs on memes.
This is not new, but memes can spread lies even faster over digital apps.
That doesn’t just mean, say, “fake news,” bad quotes, or false theories.
It also means worldview assumptions that aren’t proven, just assumed.
“The joke is always assumed to have been made,” especially vs. enemies.
That’s related to dumb tropes, like “Southern accent = stupid or evil.”
Other meme “arguments”? “Love is love.” “-phobe.” Misquoted verses.

Open discussion* Memes may “explain” but only reduce complexities like mental health. * Some folks who think differently seem to really fixate on meme humor. * Stephen can’t imagine devoting hours to analyzing/making new memes. * This can badly replace better stories with heroes, villains, plots, worlds.

Memes make corporations envious for ‘virality’* Now we see the (possible) real reasons behind strange franchise choices.
Some films/shows aren’t trying to be good but end up so-bad-it’s-good.
Instead, they’re aiming to be so-bad-it’s-good, or at least memorable.
Memorable = memeable, which also saves a lot on marketing costs.
Stephen thinks this motive is behind weird choices like Madame Webb.
They’re not really trying to make a great story; they want to start memes.
Stephen wonders if this is behind odd corporate emphases on Gollum.
That’s a side character. Why the cringe video game? Why new movies?
Answer: because Gollum is a meme. His movie version charts really well.
Admittedly, Jackson, Serkis, et. al. could do great things with new films.
See also, admittedly, weird dialogue in that new Rings of Power teaser.
It’s an attempt to manufacture an originally good thing that is organic.
No one knows who wrote, “Jingle bells / Batman smells.” It’s just there.
And few people know who first attempted the first “rickroll.” It happened.
However, many people can intuit if a corporation is trying to “go viral.”
That becomes cringe and it gets shut down as inorganic very quickly.
But if you make a straightforward story like Lord of the Rings or Dune?
Then suddenly the memes are everywhere, from Strider to Stilgar.
Fans feel “secure” on a sincere story’s foundation to laugh about it some.
Just as you may feel secure, at home or a good place, to laugh at more.
Whereas people who aren’t so blessed struggle to laugh about things.
Related: the fairly common idea that “the left can’t meme.” See also G. K. Chesterton’s reminder that “Satan fell through force of gravity.”

Com stationTop question for listeners Have you ever gone viral for sharing a meme? How did that feel?*

JPC Writer and others enjoyed discussion about episode 212:

I appreciated all four of your candidness and the kind way in which you conveyed truths and your points of view. … I think there is some silver lining to the “woke stuff” and a bit of that silver is that women are being portrayed in a better/less sensualized, more realistic light. Similarly, I appreciate that more people of color/with disabilities, etc., are being included more in movies, TV shows, and books. While of course, that ideology has lots of negatives, I think it’s important to–as you all were saying–to look for common grace/ground. Even good can come from a bad place.

Next on Fantastical TruthWhat if the spirit of antichrist came to your town? Burned-out pastor Travis Jordan is on break from ministry after the death of his wife. But then his small city of Antioch faces great signs and wonders from a new prophet who claims to be a better christ than the true Jesus Christ. Just in time for our next summer book quest, challenge your faith and seek the true Savior for the 25-year anniversary of Frank Peretti’s supernatural thriller The Visitation!

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The gamer community is in uproar.[1. Photo by Jose Gil on Unsplash.] About what? About all the things. Even occasional gamers have heard about triple-A title flops, “Sweet Baby Inc.” consultants, live-service criticism, and the dual controversies over the sexy heroine of Stellar Blade versus the normal heroine of Star Wars: Outlaws. Apart from all the cultural jargon, how can Christians discern these debates?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Chromatic by Ashley Bustamante 2. Realm Makers 2024 writers’ conference 3. Story Embers summit, May 23–25, 2024

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: Chromatic and Lumen* (May 17) * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Introducing guest Paeter Frandsen

A fan of gaming, comic books, sci-fi and fantasy since childhood, Paeter Frandsen is the owner and chief content creator of Christian Geek Central as well as Spirit Blade Productions, which has produced multiple feature-length audio dramas. He lives in Mesa, Arizona with his wife and two sons and continues to serve as a volunteer in various ways at Red Mountain Community Church, joining their Elder Board in 2024. Paeter has a love for responsibly studying God’s Word, discerningly exploring life’s deep issues, and encouraging others to join him in that journey.

YouTube: Christian Geek Central
Paeter Frandsen’s articles at Lorehaven
Spirit Blade Productions

Reintroducing guest Cap Stewart

Cap Stewart is a contributing writer to the nonfiction book Cultural Engagement: A Crash Course in Contemporary Issues and author of the curriculum Personal Purity Isn’t Enough as well as several print and online publications. Cap instructs online audiences on the Christian’s forgotten duty when confronting a pornified culture. He has also written several articles for Lorehaven. Follow him on Substack at Unpop Culture.

CapStewart.Substack.com
Cap Stewart’s articles at Lorehaven
Episode 41: Should Christians Boycott Popular Culture Like Halloween or Netflix? | with Cap Stewart

Concession stand (extra super mega buffet edition)* When we say “normal,” we mean characters who appear just… normal. * They’re not human supermodels, much less impossible anime heroines. * And when we say “sensual,” we think of biblical warnings like this one:

“Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality … I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

(Galatians 5:19, 21, ESV)

Even among Christian conservatives, these warnings provoke objection.
Many women (and men) remember bad/objectifying rules against lust.
Those aren’t good rules either, yet they’re beyond this episode’s focus.
Others say they’re not being fleshly; they’re just “appreciating beauty”!
Here it’s enough to say that in our age, many don’t have this “privilege.”
Unlike other episodes, this one will be a more experimental roundtable.
There are four chaps in the studio, and this will be an intro to this topic.
Each man has his emphasis; for example, Stephen plays devil’s advocate.
Everyone is here because of studied interest in their take on the topic.
And speaking of studied interest, Christian bros need to be careful here.
In fact, finding relevant but PG episode art should be very interesting.
Stephen personally applies “anime rules” to exploitative heroines.
That is, no one was actually exploited; often a man drew that image.
But such images are indeed meant to attract viewers into sinful lust.
We assume that truth here; we also assume this affects men and women.
A more female-centered perspective, however, will need to wait for now.
You, our female listeners, can help share this in replied to this episode!
What controversies are game fans fighting about?* Last week, one gamer-critic Discord server was hacked and barely recovered.
Meanwhile, Helldivers is barely recovering from its recent controversy.
Sony wanted to retcon “must have PSN account” rules for PC players.
That brought a whole boycott until finally the Sony execs backed down.
That’s just one example of a whole host of recent gaming controversies.
Stephen recalls some recent controversies over Peter Parker redesigns.
Fans got annoyed when Aloy’s face changed between Horizon games.
But now fans are annoyed, and imputing motives, to original designs.
Many critics “ratioed” a trailer for Star Wars: Outlaws for various reasons.
Such as: Han Solo “ripoff,” actor/heroine difference, “masculine” woman.
Others called the studio greedy for having such high game retail rates.
Meanwhile, fans despise developers for craving after live-service models.
That doesn’t mean heroine; it means mandatory internet, payments, etc.
When do video games honor or exploit heroines?* Older examples include most notably the infamous heroine Lara Croft.
Improved technology have led to more human and more exploitation.
For instance, Stephen’s a fan of the two Horizon games featuring Aloy.
She’s an attractive redhead, maybe a “girlboss,” but flawed and normal.
Accordingly, her outfits rarely if ever offer Aloy for the sinful “male gaze.”
Stephen heard one YouTuber remark on her belly, then laugh at himself.
Mary Jane Watson from Spider-Man also gets honored by the story.
But fans did not like her seeming face change for game 2 (similar to Peter).
Fans also didn’t like her fight with Peter; Stephen found this fascinating.
Meanwhile, however, games like Stellar Blade do exploit their heroines.
We need not belabor details; it’s basically like super-exaggerated anime.
That’s why critics condemn the scantily clad heroine of Stellar Blade.
My wife, Lacy, reminds us that many fans have “porn brain” about this.
Fans, however, like “Eve” and want her to show off her various assets.
There are even petitions to keep her outfits more skimpy than before.
Many fans defend this by using “redpill” or politically charged rhetoric.
After all, those “woke” activists want to erase male/female distinctions.
So what better way to show those distinctions than with exaggerations?
And after all, those “woke” activists are pretending ugliness is beauty.
So why not show beauty than making characters impossibly attractive?
How can Christians wisely engage these issues?* We do stake our claim here: softcore-porn heroines are wrong.
They’re wrong for Christians, and they’re not helpful for anyone else.
They draw the eye to (often exaggerated and impossible!) bodily features.
But just as bad religious rules fail to fix this, so do bad secularist rules.
Bad men won’t have their hearts changed by mandates and quotas.
Don’t fix this with DEI “bribes” and other legalisms fans despise.
These sorts of things introduce other perversions and political agendas.
Sure, some culturally enforced expectations may help; we do need those.
Yet these changes must start with the heart: wanting to respect people.
How we treat fictional characters is practice for how we treat people.
This goes for both sexes, but in this case, for how men respect women.
Get rid of bad religious rules and bad secular rules against sins of lust.
Instead, replace them with biblical truth about humans, rightly applied.

Com station What are your favorite games, along with any content cautions?*

Next on Fantastical TruthAfter two or so more episodes, this summer Zack and I look back on a now-classic evangelical fandom with a new series: Left Behind Legacies. Twenty years after Left Behind book 12, Glorious Appearing, from June to July 2024 we shall explore debates, nostalgia, and no small amount of guests who helped create this end-times phenomenon.

Cultural Engagement: A Crash Course in Contemporary Issues

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King David was a man after God’s own heart. But he failed. King Arthur was the legendary ruler of Britain. But he also failed. And in newer fiction, Paul Atreides was the prophesied Lisan al Gaib. And, once again, he failed. Why is it so frustrating to watch all these real and fictional heroes keep failing?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Chromatic by Ashley Bustamante 2. Realm Makers 2024 writers’ conference 3. Story Embers summit, May 23–25, 2024

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: The Book of the Dun Cow and Chromatic* (May 10) * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand Let’s skip to the end: human heroes fail, but Jesus never will. Roll theme. * Ah, but seriously, that’s the clear conclusion. But until then, we groan. * This episode is more about that frustration about failed human heroes. * We’ve selected three: historical, mythical, and fictional. You’ll have more. * Finally, there will be spoilers about King David, King Arthur, and Dune*.

King David’s historic sins tarnished a Golden Age* Stephen recently re-read the David narratives in 1/2 Samuel/Chronicles.
This reading plan is chronological, with Psalms, which brings out a lot.
For instance, there’s a lot of “journalism” being done to defend David.
But also in-house accountability journalism to hold him to account.
“Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder” for both David and his son Solomon’s kingship (2 Sam. 8:16; cf. 2 Sam. 20:24 and 1 Kings 4:3).
If you use written records to exonerate kings, they must tell everything.
That includes David’s sins against Bathsheba and Uriah (2 Sam 11:3).
Later, David apparently mistrusts his God and instead trusts in his army, so he sinfully orders a national census (2 Sam. 24, cf. 1 Chron. 21).
Reading this at once, it’s almost painful how much things fall apart.
David’s power-abuse gets magnified by his Amnon’s assault (2 Sam. 13).
David’s other son, Absalom, is enraged, abuses power, turns rebel.
And ultimately David dies fairly faithful, yet unable to build God’s house.
His son Solomon also gets a golden age, plus wisdom, but also a harem.
After that, the kingdom falls apart, and nothing in Israel is ever the same.
King Arthur’s mythical reign ultimately ended* Stephen is still catching up to the various King Arthur legends.
Several versions exist, such as original(?) 1400s Sir Thomas Malory tales.
Newer versions include Terence Hanbury White’s The Sword in the Stone
Stephen R. Lawhead moved back the time period in his Pendragon Cycle.
Alas, our Stephen had to get spoilers to answer Arthur’s mythical fate.
There’s the whole infamous tale of Lancelot and Guinevere vs. Arthur.
And also Arthur’s son, Mordred, apparently fighting him in battle.
Arthur dies—or else he heals up in Avalon and will return to England.
Either way, Arthur’s reign did not work out. No descendants. No throne.
Lawhead’s Pendragon Cycle echoes longing for a “kingdom of summer.”
Yet even in book 1 you get the idea this image is really about New Earth.
Paul Atreides falls into fictional ‘messiah’ complex Dune: Part 2* has now famously made the first novel’s ending more tragic.
We enjoyed the film, but felt great frustration at Paul’s moral decay.
Before, Paul feared the notion of becoming a revolutionary messiah.
To save the Fremen, Paul must drink condensed spice and see the future.
That’s when he embraces this destiny and gives himself to vengeance.
We see less of his father’s nobility (though this ultimately got him killed).
And we see less of the honorable House Atreides, the total good guys.
Instead the story turns political. This is the only way to win, isn’t it?
So the film makes this even more clear, per Herbert’s original direction.
The book ends with Lady Jessica assuring Chani that Paul does love her, but for political reasons, he must ceremonially marry Princess Irulan.
The film ends with Paul doing this, and driving off Chani in anger.
It’s a big difference that makes Part 2’s finale feel a major bummer.
That would stay true even if Paul does stay faithful in a Part 3 film.
Either way, the story’s “rules” give us no honorable victory for Paul.
His life is mixed up in bloodshed, politics, and running a religious cult.

Com stationTop question for listeners How do obviously flawed heroes or heroines make you feel?*

Victor DiGiovanni also recalls the Christ Clone trilogy (ep. 209):

Hey! A Christ Clone Trilogy shout-out! When I’m recommending Endtimes sci-fi books, that’s the one I go with, not that anyone can find the version of the books I read. I’m someone who snarkily reviewed Left Behind, at least when it stretched out the series from 4-7 books to the (estimated) 36 books it ended up at. But I’m glad I had Christ Clone Trilogy as my go-to suggestion.

Side note: the author, James BeauSeigneur is the one author of the 21st century who has next to zero online presence. I’ve found a total of one interview with him since I first read the book in 2004. I just did a search and that’s still the only interview. So weird that someone who had a shiny trilogy of books that were available in Books-a-Million, but otherwise has no presence. It’s like the books just appeared out of the aether one day. Just saying that it’s worth an investigation to see if these are books that appeared divinely.

Stephen Rice appreciated Zack’s end-times “pessimism” in 209:

Responding to Episode 209 (or a comment made in it), I’d like to upvote Zack’s “pessimistic” eschatology. I hope he doesn’t get much pushback. Perhaps we’re just not excessively optimistic. Persecution has been the rule throughout our history, so the idea that one group would get airlifted out harm’s way seems odd.

Next on Fantastical TruthIt’s that time of year, when we start planning episodes three months at a time, lasting us through Realm Makers in July! Coming up: video game heroine appearances, galactic wonders, the future of Christian creators, plus star interviews with authors of new novelists, and a retrospective twenty years after the (temporary) conclusion of a classic evangelical thriller series.

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We’re partners with Realm Makers is the leading fantastical conference for Christian creatives. Recently organizers shared that over 40 percent of registrations for this July’s event are first-time guests. This brings back memories! So we thought we’d share them with you. What’s it like at a writers’ conference? And what should first-time guests expect at Realm Makers and beyond?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Lion Warrior by James R. Hannibal 2. Realm Makers 2024 writers’ conference 3. Story Embers summit, May 23–25, 2024

Mission update Lorehaven reviews: Hybrid and The Book of the Dun Cow* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Introducing guest J. J. Johnson

J. J. Johnson is the author of the Iggy and Oz comedic fantasy series for middle grade readers, and the new marketing director for Realm Makers. J. J. grew up in Pryor Creek Oklahoma and attending Oklahoma Baptist University, majoring in student ministry. He lives in Edmond, Oklahoma with his wife Ashley and their two children.

J. J. Johnson on Facebook
Instagram: @jjjohnson_author
Twitter: @JJJohnsonWrites
JJJohnsonwrites.com

Concession stand* We’re still not a writers’ podcast. Yet many of our listeners are writers. * Yet now Realm Makers is poised to grow beyond its creator audience. * Listen to the end for a special preview for Realm Makers summer 2025!

What do we recall about first writing conferences?* Stephen and J.J. share their early forays into ACFW and Realm Makers conferences
Zack recounts how he found his fantastical family at Realm Makers
How can newcomers enjoy writing conferences?* “You’ve taken your first step into a larger world” (Obi-Wan Kenobi).
Remember that this is a journey, not a make-or-break single chance.
If you’re working on a novel, pitch that story happily—when asked!
Always, always ask everyone else about their stories, maybe more often.
It is humbling, then joy-giving, to meet others who are just as creative.
Don’t ever retreat to your room to write/edit. “Not a great plan.”
You’ve spent the money. Use it wisely. Steward your time. Meet others!
Still, it’s okay to pace yourself, skip a class, catch a siesta in your room.
Bring lots of drinking water. Avoid coffee-binging. Regulate your sleep.
Don’t celebrity-chase. Sit with someone new. Engage whole-heartedly.
Stephen has found that many “nobodys” quickly become “somebodies”!
And then you were there with those people to be part of their journeys.
That way is better for building shared trust. Even better, you honor Jesus.
What’s the future of the Realm Makers event?* July 18–20, 2024: Realm Makers returns to St. Louis as before.
Yet the conference is quickly outgrowing that otherwise great space.
Organizers have dreamed of adding partners for a Christian fan event.
So, starting in July 2025, the conference will add to its writing emphasis.
Creators can still attend the event with top-tier faculty and awards gala.
But the Exhibitor Hall portion of Realm Makers will be transformed.
Starting in 2025, behold the revised, expanded Realm Makers Expo!
This new Realm Makers feature will co-locate with other events like:
- Christian Game Developers Conference
- Nerd Culture Ministry Summit
This will include partners with other Christian organizations, including:
- Christian Game Developers
- Love Thy Nerd
- Geeks Under Grace
- Christian Board Gamers
Realm Makers Expo will offer distinct panels, exhibitors, programming.
Authors can enjoy training while fans enjoy the fan-focused expo event.

Com stationTop question for listeners What are your memories attending a fan event or writers’ conference?*

Next on Fantastical TruthKing David was a man after God’s own heart. But he failed. King Arthur was the legendary ruler of Britain. But he also failed. And in newer fiction, Paul Atreides was the prophesied Lisan al Gaib. And, once again, he failed. Why is it so frustrating to watch all these real and fictional heroes keep failing?

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What comes to your mind with the label “Christian fiction”? If you grew up evangelical or heard the stereotypes, you likely think negative assumptions. For example, we assume “Christian fiction” has predictable plots, shallow characters, and cheap evangelism. Even when some stories do, how can we avoid our own cliched notions about all those “bad” Christian-made novels?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Lion Warrior by James R. Hannibal 2. Changelings: Insurgence by Liam Corley 3. Story Embers summit, May 23–25, 2024

Mission update Stephen announces his first novel, coming 2025 from Enclave Publishing * Don’t miss Jenneth Dyck’s article about Prince Caspian onstage * Last week’s review, Lion Warrior; this week’s review, Hybrid* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand We’ve already covered cringe evangelical stuff and mention bad stories. * Stephen even recently referenced a very bad evangelical novel by name. * Other books, like The Shack, may be cringe but carry harmful ideas. * And we know you may have only heard Christian fiction cheerleaders. * But we’re not talking about that! We’re talking about cringe criticisms. * Based on Stephen’s older article: How to Be A Silly Christian Fiction Critic. * Per our emphasis here, Zack rightly suggested a more positive spin. * Instead of an original “Seven ways to be a silly Christian fiction critic …” * We’ll base this on seven ways to be a good* Christian fiction critic.

Clear outdated nonsense and read today’s books.* Even today I hear people assume Christian fiction is all Amish romance.
And/or coloring books, Left Behind books, spiritual warfare, or angels.
Apart from one exception, these are all previous evangelical trends.
(And even those were better than today’s top evangelical trend: politics!)
So know what you want to criticize before you venture to criticize it.
That means more than a casual glance into your distant memory files.
It means being aware of today’s novels beyond any briefly trendy titles.
And it means seeking out the best acknowledged “small” or indie novels.
Someone’s already being selected about the best ones, as we try to be.
Don’t compare fiction titles’ apples with oranges.* Good critics know the purpose of a story beyond their own expectations.
Stephen recalls Roger Ebert’s original bad take on Fellowship of the Ring.
Ebert acknowledged he expected more walking, singing, and less action.
Once he adjusted expectations, he liked the films for what they were.
Similarly, don’t compare intentionally popular titles with Classical Works.
E.g., whine that people aren’t reading enough Flannery O’Conner stories.
That’s just silly at best, sinfully arrogant at worst. Folks have preferences.
Christians may assume elitist notions that words are better than images.
Or we assume one music genre is simply better than that music genre.
That’s the assumption behind some of these false fiction comparisons.
Practicing love for different people helps you appreciate their interests.
Recall how God used ‘bad’ stories to help you.* Fans look back on cheap animation or B-movies with great fondness.
They recognize their flaws, but appreciate these stories’ great attributes.
So it is with “bad” Christian-made fiction (which may have its own goals).
For instance, Left Behind author Jerry Jenkins wanted great accessibility.
God used that series to get many, many fans interested in epic stories.
Stephen is one. This podcast would not exist apart from Left Behind.
Turns out the Holy Spirit can use “bad art” to help His people grow.
Keep that truth in mind even if you see the real flaws in some stories.
Self-critique by challenging your expectations* A lot of “Christian culture bad” random critiques offer no alternative.
Meanwhile, even the “secular culture bad” critics are making new stuff.
In other words, “don’t just curse the darkness, but light a candle.”
What’s a critic’s alternative? What would change his/her mind about it?
For example, what’s a ratio to switch “Christian fiction bad” to “… good?”
E.g., twenty parts bad to one part good = all bad? What about a reverse?
If there are but ten righteous in the city, shall we spare it from criticism?
That goes double if we seem to be giving bad secular stories a pass.
Meanwhile, do we accept the impulse to “punch church, coddle culture”?
Authors, don’t promote your stuff as The Solution* Stephen doesn’t see this tendency as much as he used to see it.
But occasionally you’ll find Christian creatives go back to this dry well.
They’ll step on other “Christian fiction bad” and promote their own stuff.
Some of that stuff may be okay, in which case the marketing is cringe.
But other stuff overcorrects with bad words, grimdark, and immaturity.
As we’ve said, there are no (and shouldn’t be) Chosen One authors.
Far better to ignore the bad and train hard for Christ’s glory, not ours.
Finally, reject corny ‘the world is watching’ tropes* There’s a frankly self-righteous meme-belief among Christians like this:

The world is watching. They see cheap stories, hypocrisy, too much politics. Therefore we as The Church must stop being so bad. Let’s make better art. Let’s stop being hypocrites. Let’s get out of politics. Only then will people see that we’re good people, not bad, and start being more curious about what Christianity is. The world is watching. Ah, let us perform for their praise.

Okay, that last part might be a little snarky, but you get the point.
Who’s missing from that line of thinking? Well, Jesus Christ, for One.
Jesus promised that the world will hate Him and us (John 15:18).
So even if I’m a cheap/bad/political Christian, I could just point to that.
“The world is watching” is not enough. What does that even mean?
I don’t trust “the world’s” judgment. They might be right or wrong.
Sometimes it means, “Ugh, mom, you’re so embarrassing to me.”
Well, your secondhand embarrassment is getting turned into legalism.
To critique the Church and call for better art, you need better reasons.
That’s why we prefer contending for better stories based on Scripture.
God is our Creator. He sets creative standards, not worldly artists.
Jesus is our Savior. He sets heroic examples, not church-hatewatchers.
The Holy Spirit is our Sanctifier, and He makes us better, not silly critics.

Com stationTop question for you: What are your least and most favorite Christian-made novels?*

Bob H has not encountered many Christians who scorn fiction:

My family were big readers, I got my love of sci-fi from my dad, and I don’t think I’ve ever encountered anyone in person who had anything to say against reading fiction. That seems a little bizarre to me: seems most likely to be internet virtue-signaling to impress a social media audience. For in-person discussions, I have more often encountered people who had a specific suspicion about a specific property (you know, Harry Potter promotes witchcraft kind of thing), and that’s usually a good-faith argument that’s worth an open-minded, thoughtful discussion.

Many fans, like JPC Writer, can’t wait to see “Caspian” onstage:

I spent an embarrassing amount of time daydreaming how I might get myself and my family to DC before their last show this month. Sadly, with all the parental health issues going on right now and my husband’s overtime, it’s probably not going to happen. But I’m so glad this type of thing is in the world (I had no idea that this theatre group existed) and do hope to see one of their productions either in person or a recorded version someday. Thanks so much for covering this in the podcast–I am looking forward to listening to the rest of the episode soon.

Next on Fantastical TruthWe’re partners with Realm Makers, the leading fantastical conference for Christian creatives. Recently they shared that over 40 percent of registrations for this July’s event are for first-time guests. This brings back memories! So we thought we’d share them with you. What’s it like at a writers’ conference? And what should first-time guests expect at Realm Makers and beyond?

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Sixteen years ago next month, there was a Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian movie. But guess what version Narnia steward Douglas Gresham praised as a better adaptation of C. S. Lewis’s book? It is The Academy of Arts Logos Theatre’s Prince Caspian, now performing through April 2024 at The Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C.! We invite one Logos artisan into our studio to explore puppetry and performance for Christ’s glory.

Episode sponsors1. Oasis Family Media: “1232” dramatic podcast 2. Changelings: Insurgence by Liam Corley 3. Story Embers summit, May 23–25, 2024

Mission update Jenneth Dyck’s article about the Prince Caspian play * Lorehaven reviews: last week, Saints and Monsters; next week, Lion Warrior* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Introducing guest Noah Stratton

As executive director of The Academy of Arts Logos Theatre, Noah Stratton takes on many roles both offstage and on. Through the years, Noah has been privileged to portray Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol: A New Musical, King Miraz in Prince Caspian, Judah in God Meant it for Good, Professor Bhaer in Little Women, Mr. Tumnus/Professor Kirke in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, and much more.

About the Logos Theatre

The Logos Theatre was founded by The Academy of Arts in 2006 with the express purpose of impacting our culture for Christ through the powerful medium of storytelling on stage. Its 300-seat auditorium, proscenium arch, and revolving stage is housed in The Academy of Arts headquarters in Taylors, SC, and has been attended by audiences from all over the world. With the understanding that all truth comes from God, The Logos Theatre carries out the Academy’s mission of “making the Bible come alive in minds and hearts” in a unique and powerful way, by choosing to only tell stories of truth and purpose. The Logos Theatre has further grown its impact in the culture by adding many original productions to its repertoire such as C. S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia, God Meant it For Good (the true story of Joseph and his brothers in Egypt), Esther, The Venture of 1620, The Scarlet Pimpernel, Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, and much more. Each one of these professional productions and musicals is written and crafted by the artistic team of The Logos Theatre to make a lasting impact on our culture by reaching the minds and hearts of the case members who perform them and the audiences who attend them.

TheLogosTheatre.com
Why make biblical, fantastical, historical plays?* Biblical stories: Joseph, Esther, familiar territory for Christians
But also “secular” historical tales: from “1620” to “The Scarlet Pimpernel”
Then comes the Narnia universe—isn’t this a drastic genre departure?
What are the challenges of ‘Prince Caspian’? Logos performed an existing The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe*.
That led to a wholly original production of The Horse and His Boy.
And this year Logos is performing their own version of Prince Caspian.
C. S. Lewis’s stepson Douglas Gresham is a big fan of these adaptations.
If you hear this in April, act fast—Museum of the Bible shows end April 27!
So far, the only way to see the Narnia shows is to go see them live.
At least in trailers, the acting, aesthetics, and puppetry all look amazing.
You can listen to this epic song “Look for the Morning” from Caspian.
Which stories are next for Logos Theatre stages?* Academy of Arts late founder Dr. Nicky Chavers has recorded Aslan’s voice
… For all seven Chronicles of Narnia, before his passing in 2021
So it sounds like The Logos Theatre is in Narnia for the long haul!
Coming in 2024: plays about creation/evolution, Robin Hood, Christmas.
Coming in 2025: The Cross and the Switchblade, The Secret Garden.

Com stationTop question for listeners When will you go see The Chronicles of Narnia live on stage?*

Cody replied to ep. 207. Should We Get Mad When Christians Scorn Fantastical Fiction?

Here’s a quote from Shakespeare that kind of relates to this topic:

For naught so vile that on the Earth doth live
But to the Earth some special good doth give;
Nor aught so good but, strained from that fair use,
Revolts from true birth, stumbling on abuse.

Next on Fantastical TruthWhat comes to your mind with the label “Christian fiction”? If you grew up evangelical or heard the stereotypes, you likely think negative assumptions. For example, we assume “Christian fiction” has predictable plots, shallow characters, and cheap evangelism. Even when some stories do, how can we avoid our own cliched notions about all those “bad” Christian-made novels?

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If you’re a Christian fantastical fan, you’re gonna have a bad time. That’s because some critics accuse you of special sin by liking that “entertainment” stuff. So when that popular religious leader, or that random comment, or even your own trusted family member or pastor, warns you against popular culture and fantastical stories, how should you respond in wisdom?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: The Chaos Grid 2. Changelings: Insurgence by Liam Corley 3. Story Embers summit, May 23–25, 2024

Mission update NEWS: The Time Door by Shannon McDermott Opens For Pre-Orders * Lorehaven reviews: last week, Mortal Queens; this week, Saints and Monsters* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand We’ve spent previous episodes biblically defending fantastical fiction. * And we explore the purpose of freedom for Christ’s and others’ sake. * Now for some practical solutions: what do we do with Christian critics? * Here’s a bigger disclaimer. Some of these criticisms can really hurt. * For those who found refuge and Christ reflected in stories, it gets worse. * The critic seems to be actively threatening a life raft Jesus threw to us. * But if you feel a God-given surplus* of ability to engage, do so joyously! * We’ll refresh some of our rationale and offer tips on challenging them. * But we’ll also share experiences of sorting good-faith from bad actors. * Sometimes you must walk away from folks with different sorts of minds. * The best you can hope for is that they’ll not persist in false accusations.

Ask why the critic is bothered about your choices.* For example, pastors may be concerned about imagination’s real abuse.
Or someone you know might see real negative side effects to fandom.
All good things, even basic water and bread, can hurt us in some ways.
So, if you know the person, it’s worth asking if there’s any merit there.
Use your imagination. “If this person were right, what would it look like?”
Otherwise, if your defense isn’t falsifiable, you may be over-defensive.
In some cases, you may need simply to ignore the critic entirely.
That’s likely of internet randos, many of whom get “perverse incentives.”
They’re play-acting fantasies in their head of being imaginary “pastor.”
In that case, they’re the ones abusing fantasy/imagination; avoid them.
You won’t be able to crack the delusion that they’re Big Spiritual Boss.
Instead, take heed of their twisted use of imagination, and be warned!
Ask if the critic knows fiction is part of real life.* You’re on firm ground, especially if critics emphasize “the real world.”
Easy response: “Indeed, and in the real world, people love fiction.”
Everyone enjoys fiction of some kind, even passing hypotheticals.
You needn’t even refer to Jesus’s parables; just point to basic living.
And yes, even fantastical fiction is part of real life. Everyone knows this.
Recent example: apologist Justin Peters in a fairly viral social reply.
He insisted, “No work of fiction should ever change our worldview.”
We’d ask what he means by that. What about illustrate our worldview?
If the fiction points to Scripture, yes, it should! If not, no, it shouldn’t.
But it’s silly to blame fiction in ways we wouldn’t blame pastors/teachers.
This is a borderline “solo Scriptura” notion that Scripture doesn’t teach.
For this, you need only point to the parables to defend good fiction.
And it’s acceptable to point to your own testimony grounded in gospel.
Yes, God has often used fantastic fiction (much by Christians) for good!
Even many secular stories have common grace to reflect law/standards.
Ask if critics understand the purpose of fiction.* Here’s where you get to be a Vulcan while deconstructing that a little bit.
Stephen likes to start with the question: What do you think fiction is for?
Don’t assume the critic has done that work. He very likely has not.
Of course, before you ask this, be sure you know good answers!
Ask this: “Should I criticize only bad churches and ignore their purpose?”
“If I did, you’d get the idea I only hate/ignore any church, good or bad.”
“So why then is it acceptable only to criticize popular culture and art?”
(For more about this hypothetical, see Stephen’s older article here.)
Be aware that many critics can’t help think very mechanically about this.
They have “a mind of metal and wheels” (Treebeard), practical to a fault.
Stephen believes it’s best to stick with Scripture, especially in person.
Many folks reflexively shut down with the Lewis and Tolkien quotes.
So use these sparingly, and avoid rabbit-trails into fictional magic, etc.
You also need to be able to say, with wide eyes and clear conscience:

“Fantastical stories do not tempt me to sin any more than usual. In fact, God has used many of these stories to make me love Jesus more.”

Say it that boldly, especially in person, and folks have trouble accusing.
Recognize that some Christians legit cannot fathom fiction’s purpose.
It’s like they’re color-blind, able to see, but only in black-and-white.
God has given these folks different gifts, and that is perfectly okay.
Many hold to sola cerebra nonfiction as tightly as you hold to fiction.
These folks find great comfort in systematizing, classification, and logic.
Stephen and Zack relate—it’s partly why they’re often drawn to sci-fi!
It’s helpful for both you and the critic to remember a key biblical truth.
“The body is one and has many members,” all of which serve purpose.
That’s the apostle Paul’s heartfelt/rational wisdom in 1 Cor. 12:12-27.
Creative hearts cannot say to logical minds, “I have no need of you.”
But even that’s an improvement over the false accusation of sin.
That’s vital to shut down, not for our comfort, but Christ’s reputation.

Com stationTop question for listeners How have you felt when Christian leaders scorn fantastical fiction?*

Eustace in the Lorehaven Guild has thoughts on episode 206:

Haven’t listened yet. First reaction: obviously as an Orthodox Christian I don’t have a problem with images of Jesus. But Second Commandment violations involve the creation of an image to embody what does not have a body. In the biblical context there was usually even a ritual where priests were ritually breathing life into the idols in a blasphemous inversion of the creation of man.

… It’s just weird to me. Even before I became Orthodox, it never occurred to me that the Second Commandment would have anything to do with pictures or statues (but especially pictures) of actual people, much less that a mental visualization of a real person would be an idol. I mean, idol worship is a very specific activity. You don’t accidentally do an idolatry by having an image inspire you to remember someone just a little too fondly.

Next on Fantastical TruthSixteen years ago next month, there was a Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian movie. But guess what version Narnia steward Douglas Gresham praised was a better adaptation of his stepfather C. S. Lewis’s book? It is The Academy of Arts Logos Theatre’s Prince Caspian, running through April 2024 at The Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C.! We invite Logos artisans into our studio to explore puppetry and performance for Christ’s glory.

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Happy post-Resurrection Sunday! How did that go at your church? Did you see any Easter pageants? Pictures on the bulletin showing nail-scarred hands, or a shadowy figure exiting a tomb surrounded by light? And what about the Jesus-like hero in your favorite fantastical story? Could these images fool some people into sins like worshiping an imposter Jesus?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: The Chaos Grid 2. Changelings: Insurgence by Liam Corley 3. Story Embers summit, May 23–25, 2024

Mission update We reviewed Tattoo of Crimson* and it’s also our Book Quest! * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild.

Introducing guest Jenneth Dyck

Graphic designer Jenneth Dyck is a dyslexic writer and illustrator who creates professional book covers for indie authors and small press publishers. She also thinks way too deeply about superhero movies, quantum physics, angels, and the fourth dimension. She holds degrees in professional writing and digital media with an M.A. in graphic design.

Jenneth’s articles at Lorehaven
Jenneth’s homepage on WordPress
@‌JennethLeed_Author on Instagram
What kinds of pictures of Jesus do we make?* Going back to antiquity: earliest image was by haters in the first century.
By the third century people were making images meant to honor Him.
Source: Aleteia (a Catholic website), The six oldest images of Jesus, 2018
In modern times, we see mocking images, for sure. e.g. “Buddy Christ.”
But we see respectful treatments, like film dramatizations of the gospels.
Stephen’s favorites include The Gospel of John (2003) and Risen (2016).
And of course there’s the blockbuster multi-season drama The Chosen.
In these films and shows, actors portray Jesus, so we see mainly humans.
But at holidays like Christmas and Easter, Jesus pictures really come out.
Christmas: we see Him mainly in His weakness, as a newborn infant.
Easter: we see Him in weakness, a suffering servant, then as risen Man.
We don’t have yet a holiday for Christ triumphant, returned to reign!
A key point: each image captures Jesus at particular times in history.
They are indeed limited, just as people saw Him “limited” at the time.
Why do some Christians claim these are ‘2CV’?* “2CV” means “Second Commandment violation,” seen oft in interwebs.
People use this, sincerely or sarcastically, to critique pictures of Jesus.
They’ll jokingly or honestly apply a “2CV shield” over such images.
Stephen once saw writer Tim Challies “censor” The Shack’s movie poster.
Their key text is of course the Second Commandment in Exodus 20:4–6

“You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the LORD your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and the fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing steadfast love to thousands of those who love me and keep my commandments.”

This seems an open-and-shut case. But the argument proves too much.
Do we truly believe we can’t make “any likeness of anything” in creation?
God groups these commandments together; we can’t separate them.
The clear context is the phrase “bow down to them or serve them.”
No one should worship any graven image, of God or anything else.
So if anyone is actually tempted to worship a Jesus-picture, that’s wrong.
Many critics, however, insist on many other arguments against these.
Jenneth has heard similar critiques that Christians need to take seriously.
“Do not let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil” (Rom. 14:16).
Sometimes we need to address the real root cause of these critiques.
Folks may have some out of bad denominations, real idol-worship, cults.
To them, Jesus-pictures really are idolatry and they can’t see otherwise.
Others, however, act like they’ve come out of these places but have not.
They seem to think that rules for local church = rules for all places.
So: If we don’t have Jesus-pictures in church, why have them anywhere?
This too is fallacious. It betrays a niche vision of the Christian’s purpose.
These notions also stretch the “Reformed” concept of “total depravity.”
That is, acting like people “drift” into idolatry, and not choosing this sin.
Critics need to listen: for many Christians, Jesus-pictures do not tempt us.
How can we make and be biblical Jesus-pictures?* Look to the pictures of Jesus in the Bible—yes, He is often described!
In fact, you can’t faithfully read Scripture without picturing these events.
See of course Isaiah 53, with its broad-strokes picturing of His weakness.
Every narrative of His suffering also gives us images of His appearance.
Don’t miss Revelation 19:11–16, with its vivid imagery of Christ the King!
Don’t be casual about pictures of Jesus. They really can fool people.
Decades after the real Jesus came, folks made up fake versions of Him.
Knowing this would happen later, He still came anyway, as a true Man.
So “people might use this to sin” isn’t a good enough reason to ban it.
Our pictures will naturally emphasize His humanity. So be aware of that.
Aslan, for example, is very physical yet also mysterious and godlike.
Other pictures of Jesus in stories need to show the same about Him.
Even more importantly, we must know that we are Jesus-pictures.
How do we know? It’s in the name! Christ-ian. Literally: Jesus-picture.
The apostle Paul wrote in Colossians 1:15–20 that Jesus fully reveals God:

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.

As the “image of the invisible God,” He makes us into images of Himself.
Whether or not we’re tempted by Jesus-pictures, let’s reflect Him well!
That means treating each other with Christlike respect despite our views.
And that means not slandering other Christians as legalists or idolaters.
Remember that everyone has backstories and varying temptation levels.
We also have different kinds of minds that worship Jesus differently.

Com station How have Jesus-pictures helped or tempted the people you know?*

Amanda in the Guild heard episode 204 about human villainy:

Finally got around to listening to the episode. And I agree with everything, but especially the oppressor/oppressed line. Living in a reversal of that dynamic right now, in the real world, and once you get stuck in seeing people that way you will never stop. You will always be looking for enemies, even when you are the one in charge. You can never move forward, and I don’t know if there can ever be true forgiveness if you don’t change the way you see people.

The problem is though, often both sides are so self-righteous, it can make it really hard to have an honest conversation about it.

Next on Fantastical TruthNot to fool faithful listeners again, but the next episode might be about Christian ministry complaints about fantastical stories. Or it might be about the total eclipse covering a swath of North American this Monday, April 8. And/or we may explore atheist complaints that “religion” keeps us away from “the Star Trek future.” All that plus a blockbuster summer to come!

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Sin doesn’t ruin human lives and all the creation by itself.[1. Photo by Ismael Paramo on Unsplash.] Sin brings the consequence of suffering. Hebrews 2:18 promises, “For because [Jesus] himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.” Today we’re joined by a special guest who explores real suffering, memory, and healing in the worlds of fiction: novelist J. J. Fischer.

Episode sponsors1. Oasis Family Media: “1232” dramatic podcast 2. Changelings: Insurgence by Liam Corley 3. Realm Makers: 2024 writers conference

Mission update* Don’t miss How Stories Physically Reshape Our Brains For Good or Ill * That’s by today’s guest, Jasmine Fischer, a former clinical psychologist * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand* This is part 3 of our He Saves Us series, with a specific topical focus. * In part 1, we explored how Jesus has defeated the Devil (past tense). * In part 2, we explored how Jesus saves us from our villain (present tense). * Now we focus on other consequences of sin: disease, suffering, death. * Human sin may be the “final boss” at the cross, as we said last week. * Yet in the end, “the last enemy to be destroyed is death” (1 Cor. 15:26).

Introducing guest J. J. (Jasmine) Fischer

Jasmine Fischer lives with her husband on the beautiful central coast of New South Wales, Australia, where she enjoys reading, going for long walks, and forgetting to water her plants. Originally a psychologist with a master’s degree in clinical psychology, Jasmine works as a Christian fantasy author and freelance editor. Her novel Calor won the 2023 Realm Award Book of the Year. Follow her literary adventures at JJFischer.com where you can subscribe to her newsletter or send her a message, or you can follow her on Instagram and Facebook. (Due to the rising cost of birdseed, she no longer accepts carrier pigeons.)

Human sin brought consequences to creation* Genesis 1–2: God created humans to steward all creation for His glory.
Originally we would have lived forever, without disease, death, suffering.
Imagine perfect mental health, too; no tragedies, only satisfaction.
Genesis 3: humans chose to rebel against God’s good created order.
As a result, thorns and thistles oppose humans’ attempt to steward.
“Thorns and thistles” also image the disorder and tragedy of creation.
Some examples of these consequences in recent fiction by J. J. Fischer.

Open discussion* Stephen likes to call creation the “third party” between God and man. * God is not His creation. Man is not God’s creation. Creation is distinct. * Creation strikes back not just with weeds but with storms and entropy. * Alas, some Christians want to avoid pantheism, so they ignore creation. * Romans 8 says, “The creation itself” groans in “bondage to decay.” * And “we ourselves groan inwardly,” suffering from sin’s consequences. * This doesn’t just mean our own sin, but sin’s corruption in the world. * It leads to mental disorders, struggles to focus, anxiety, and real trauma.

Human doctors can relieve or even cure some ills* Physicians had some limited success before scientific processes.
After that, successes (and many failures) exploded in growth.
Doctors and others could relieve or even prevent or cure many diseases.
Lately we’ve seen more growth in fields of mental health and wellness.
From professional to populist platforms, we’re hearing a lot about this.
And so more therapeutic–related ideas are helping inform more stories.
For example, in Calor, our heroes struggle with terrible past tragedies.
Memory becomes a commodity that can be shared or suppressed.
But human healing can only go so far, with in an advanced medical age.
Doctors and therapists still understand very little about the human brain.
Or many of them apply false religions or materialism to their work.
Meanwhile, false teachers promise miraculous “healing” for today.
As a result, people think that only one method can relieve/cure these ills.
Any examples of extremes or unhelpful ideas in therapy, past or present?
Jesus Christ, the Great Physician, will heal all hurts* It helps to know that Jesus Christ has suffered much like humans do.
He was truly Man, so He experienced pain, wounds, and surely stresses.
Finally, He underwent acute physical abuse/trauma/torture on the Cross.
But lest we get lost in those past details, let us focus on the future hope.
Rev. 21: He will “wipe away every tear,” better than any therapist could.
This is part of what Tolkien called the eucastrophe, the good “cataclysm.”
So if you struggle with disease or have seen death, imagine that relief!
(Stephen had a very small-scale version of this last week at church.)
If you face mental health or other struggles, imagine the healing!
Until then, our stories often hint or even re-enact these happy endings.
Heroes receive healing or the hint of healing from their sufferings.
We can see characters who struggle with trauma pursue resolution.
Examples of this in recent fantasy, including J. J. Fischer’s recent books.

Com stationCommenting on Episode 202, JenniferRae wrote:

I tried out this podcast today on my commute to work. This was the episode that I chose & I enjoyed listening to the banter between the cohosts. I’m not even into fiction books, but the content here was super relatable in other aspects. Too bad I had to pause it to go to work.

Top question for listeners How do you anticipate Jesus saving you from bad health?*

Next on Fantastical TruthReady to spring into reading? Now that we’ve wrapped He Saves Us, for now, let’s take that wonder of real salvation into all our fantastical worlds. On this podcast, we’re planning blockbuster guests and topics for the summer and beyond. For example, this is probably next week’s episode: when your pastor, or that popular religious leader, starts warning you against popular culture and fantastical stories, what’s a Christian fan to do?

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When our hero Jesus died to atone for sin and resurrected Himself, He did not defeat only the Devil.[1. Photo by Michael Förtsch on Unsplash.] He did this to “deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery,” says the author of Hebrews. Jesus our hero is “a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.” He saves us from our own villainy!

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Hybrid by Candace Kade 2. Changelings: Insurgence by Liam Corley 3. Realm Makers: 2024 writers conference

Mission update* This week we debut a new article from author Jasmine Fischer. * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild.

Concession stand This is part of our series He Saves Us, about the foes Jesus defeats. * These include not just human villainy (today) but Satan and suffering. * At different times of your life, you may resonate with one or the other. * Maybe you feel spiritual attack, or the thorns and thistles of suffering. * Yet at all times we feel our fight against sin from which He saves us. * Finally, many Christians re. salvation put on their “evangelism” filter. * But this episode isn’t mainly for the nonbelievers. It’s a family review. * That’s why we use initials like “PSA,” for penal substitutionary atonement*.

Quotes and notes

The penal substitutionary view of the atonement holds that the most fundamental event of the atonement is that Jesus Christ took the full punishment that we deserved for our sins as a substitute in our place, and that all other benefits or results of the atonement find their anchor in this truth.[1. “Substutionary Atonement,” Thomas Schreiner, undated essay at The Gospel Coalition.]

[Jesus speaking] “For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father.”

John 10:17–18

Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things. We know that the judgment of God rightly falls on those who practice such things. Do you suppose, O man—you who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself—that you will escape the judgment of God? Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? But because of your hard and impenitent heart you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed.

Romans 2:1–5

For surely it is not angels that [Jesus] helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.

Hebrews 2:16–17

Many people like to say: we are basically good.* You ever been at that party or event that’s mainly about other people?
In other words, most of what people have in common is their mutuals.
Did you hear about him? Did you see what she shared on her platform?
The in-group becomes “people in this room,” with others being “out.”
The “good guys” become you and your friends, who aren’t bad.
But what happens at another event, with a new mix of people?
The pretend “good guys” and “bad guys” swap roles based on nothing.
So it is when people act like “we are” or “I am” basically good inside.
If we sin, there’s an excuse. Other people. The system. Or even trauma.
Before we speak of corrections to this, why do we share this false “story”?
But people also like to say: everyone else is evil!* Everyone outside the party is full of drama, foolishness, clout-chasing.
They are corrupt; their deeds are vile. Because they’re not with us now.
And when others further out sin, there’s even less of an excuse.
Further outside our “party,” those people are oppressors. Careless. Evil.
Why do we like to carry on with this kind of constant self-delusion?
It doesn’t make sense. It’s not thoughtful. At best it’s mindless small talk.
Small talk isn’t enough for big ideas about human will and responsibility.
Fiction flushes this out. Any good-vs.-evil story must be taken seriously.
Unless, of course, you make some stories into “small talk.” Then they fail.
Jesus says: Everyone is evil, but I save my people.* Now we come to some very hard, even “grimdark” biblical proofs.
Humans are, by nature, evil. Some even say “dead in” or enslaved to sin.
That’s the language of the apostle Paul in Ephesians 2. No escape clause.
Before we talk about Satan, or suffering, we need to emphasize sin.
This is a terminal heart-level condition. All the older preachers are right.
We’re not at all perfect spiritual creatures like the angels of heaven.
We’re not the heroes of the story, teamed up with Jesus versus the Devil.
We’re not the heroes who fight our own tragic backstories and trauma.
Instead, we’re the villains. We need the redemption arcs. He’s the Hero.

Com stationTop question for listeners Do you tend to imagine Jesus saving us mainly from that dragon Satan, our own human sin, or suffering and death?*

Next on Fantastical TruthSin doesn’t ruin human lives and all the creation by itself. Sin brings the consequence of suffering. Hebrews 2:18 promises, “For because [Jesus] himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.” Next week we’re joined by a special guest who explores real suffering, memory, and healing in the worlds of fiction: novelist J. J. Fischer.

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“Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, [Jesus] himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil…”[1. Hebrews 2:14 (ESV).] Today we begin a new series, He Saves Us, starting with our Hero’s victory over that dragon!

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Hybrid by Candace Kade 2. Changelings: Insurgence by Liam Corley 3. Realm Makers: 2024 writers conference

Mission update Our new Book Quest has begun through North! Or Be Eaten*. * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild.

Concession stand* Maybe you like fantasy dragons. Your can befriend, ride, or train them. * Some dragons are even cute and cuddly. No shade on that imagination. * Scripture itself portrays a sea-dragon, Leviathan, as God’s “pet” (Job 41). * But here we will emphasize the traditional idea: the dragon as devilish.

Introducing guest Laurie ChristineLaurie Christine is an author, podcast host, certified Biblical Parenting Coach, Bible teacher, wife, and mom of four wild, loud, adventurous boys. Her podcast, Redeeming the Chaos, invites moms of boys to join her on the wild, wonderful, chaotic adventure of raising courageous boys and connecting them with Christ. Her most recent book released last November, Rise of the Enemy, first in her Dragon Slayer Bible series.

DragonSlayerBible.com
LaurieChristine.com

Concession stand* Maybe you like fantasy dragons that you can befriend, ride, or train. * Some dragons are even cute and cuddly. No shade on that imagination. * Scripture itself portrays a sea-dragon, Leviathan, as God’s “pet” (Job 41). * But here we will emphasize the traditional idea: the dragon as devilish.

Slaying the dragons in modern storytelling* Why do readers love dragon slaying stories so much?
These mirror the ultimate dragons-slaying narrative in the Bible.
Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit matches wits with the great dragon Smaug.
Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings later defeats the dragon-like Balrog.
A few other modern stories preserve the concept of dragons as evil.
The original Godzilla, such as in Godzilla: Minus One (2023), is a destroyer.
Harry Potter famously shows a hero confronting dragonlike monsters.
Lord Voldemort himself is associated with satanic imagery and serpents.
Other stories show dragons not as devilish, but morally neutral or good.
Actual dragons in Harry Potter are just another kind of fantastic beast.
The recent American films portray Godzilla as more of a hero/antihero.
Many, many Christian-made books have different takes on dragons.
Eustace Clarence Scrubb’s selfishness turns him into a dragon in VODT.
Bryan Davis, “that dragon guy,” has children turning into/out of dragons.
Many pre-Flood-set fantasy novels show dragons as originally good.
Slaying the dragons of ancient legends* Beowulf does not just fight Grendel but Grendel’s mother and a dragon.
“St. George and the Dragon” is one of the Western template stories.
Of course, Eastern nations like Japan and China have rich dragon tales.
But you will find dragons, winged serpents, wyverns, whatever name or variant the creature has, across all ancient culture and continents.
Some Christians, such as at Answers in Genesis, think dragons were real.
Stephen agrees with them; dragons once really existed on this Earth.
And somehow along the way, they got associated with the top dragon.
Slaying that dragon, the Devil, in the Scripture* Dragons get slain throughout the Bible, not just in Revelation 12.
We can see the Genesis 3:15 promise in light of Revelation 12:9.
Scripture often uses the terms “dragon” and “serpent” interchangeably.
At this Easter, remember that our Hero, Jesus, is the Dragon Slayer.
Explore what this truth means for us and for any of our children.
One way to help you do that: The Dragon Slayer Bible Series.

Com stationQuestion: What are your favorite dragons in stories—good, evil, or neutral?Mahina shared thoughts about ep. 202 and lockdown reading:

During Covid I helped take care of my 80+ year old grandma and we were scared. The two things we could actually do together physically and rule wise were go to the public pool to swim and go to the library. Those were the only outings for a while for grandma so that’s when I started getting back into reading. I loved reading in middle & high school but had stopped as an adult. I actually found Lorehaven after being disappointed with library books with hidden agendas and explicit content. Now my life is on a completely different course career wise and I love my God honoring stories. I find solace from the scrolling and can see God’s designs in fantastical fiction.

Amanda, also in the Lorehaven Guild, felt much the same way:

I was reading then, but I think being shut in for so long was one of the things that brought me to something of a meeting with God over some behavior in my life. Like the things I was reading (or watching) which were not good and definitely not healthy. Stories in principle are a gift from God, but certainly not all stories are good, and I had gotten sucked in by many of those. I think I’d spent too many years whacking my discernment with a hammer. So in the years since, it’s been a process of scraping away the bad, and I read different books now. Though I often still feel unsure about my choices, don’t want to fall into the same trap again.

Next on Fantastical TruthWhen our hero Jesus died to atone for sin and resurrected Himself, He did not defeat only the Devil. He did this to “deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery,” says the author of Hebrews. Jesus our hero is “a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.” He saves us from our own villainy!

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Hand-washing. Social distancing. Fired employees. Air transmission. Four long years ago, the 195 nations lived together in disharmony. Then, everything changed when COVID lockdowns attacked. How did lockdowns change culture? How did our reality’s upheaval affect our enjoyment of fictional worlds?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Guardian by Cathy McCrumb 2. Changelings: Insurgence by Liam Corley 3. Realm Makers: 2024 writers conference

Mission update Our new Book Quest has begun through North! Or Be Eaten*. * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild.

Concession stand* Nope, this won’t be political. By now, I think all that stuff is wrapped up. * Although we’re still happy about our “COVID vaccine as parable” episode. * Lockdowns actively shaped this podcast and the direction of Lorehaven. * So, despite all the nonsense and suffering, God meant this for good. * We’ll reflect that sense of positivity as we explore this more casually.

Lockdowns helped drive us closer to Jesus Christ.* Some “end is near” fervor can be very healthy for cultures and people.
We realize we really are mortal and must make good use of our time.
All this led us to see more value in church, Scripture, and obedience.
We also found God-given value in humor, alone time, and nature.
Lockdowns challenged how and why we read.* So much screen time reinforced the dopamine/doomscroll problem.
Many cultural debates distracted us from the purpose of good stories.
Other debates helped encourage us to participate more in our world.
That could drive us back to good stories, or unfortunately away from them.
Career and other life challenges drew our attention to real-world needs.

Quotes and notes Coronavirus and Christ, book by John Piper * “The State of The Culture 2024,” Ted Gioia, Feb. 18, 2024 * It’s Official: We Can Pretty Much Treat Covid Like the Flu Now. Here’s a Guide., Sumathi Reddy, The Wall Street Journal*, March 1, 2024

In nonrealistic epics, such as Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, The Princess Bride, and Game of Thrones, tyrants never survive, but heroes do. In realistic epics, such as Spartacus, Nineteen Eighty-Four, Braveheart, and Lord of the Flies, tyrants always survive; heroes never do.

—Robert McKee (in his book Character)

Lockdowns made us stronger through challenge.* For Stephen’s part, his family made big life decisions throughout 2020.
Stephen got more serious about scheduling, goals, reading, and writing.
We both installed bookshelves in rooms to show we prioritize reading.
Our public library has free audiobooks on dedicated “Playaway” devices
We’ve invested more in books of all sorts, especially fiction audiobooks.

Zack’s strategies for better reading habits* Read whole chapters at a time. * Keep internet-connected devices out of reach. * Use the @freedom app to block distractions for a set time. * Share monthly reading goals with friends. * If you feel stuck, try reading shorter books, like novellas. * Finish half-read books for that faster sense of accomplishment. * Walk or even fall asleep to the audiobook of an already-favorite title. * Get a Libro.fm subscription to retrieve entire fiction series on audiobook. * Follow C.S. Lewis’s advice about reading one old books after you read a new book.

Com stationTop question for listeners How did lockdowns shape your own reading experience?*

Next on Fantastical Truth“Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil…” Next month we begin a new series, He Saves Us, about our Hero’s victory over Satan, sin, and suffering.

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Nobody claims to like “hate.”[1. Image credit: Christ Washing the Disciples’ Feet by Garofalo, c. 1520/1525 (public domain, source: National Gallery of Art).] That’s bad. Everybody claims they want to “love their neighbor.” That’s good. Should the best Christian-made stories repeat these messages so that readers know Christians are good and not bad? Or could stories with this goal end up actually harming our neighbors?

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Guardian by Cathy McCrumb 2. Return of the Lost Ones by David Liberto 3. Realm Makers: 2024 writers conference

Mission update Lorehaven action: North! Or Be Eaten* book quest starts March 4 * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand Our neighbors need beauty, goodness, and truth from great stories*. * That’s the pivotal (and biblical) assumption we make behind all this. * We’ll need to presume these definitions as we explore flawed stories. * Beauty: artistic excellence, craftsmanship, reflection of God our Creator. * Goodness: moral virtue, righteousness, reflection of our perfect Jesus. * Truth: biblical doctrine, natural reality, imitation of the Holy Spirit’s word. * We do know many critics add more heat than light to these critiques. * So in critiquing stories directly or otherwise, we don’t fault their makers. * In fact, with one exception, we’ll avoid specific examples on this show. * Creators have backstories that lead them to emphasize one or the other. * Yet we still need to “stop the cycle” and emphasize all three at once. * More than our stories’ excellence is at stake; so our neighbors’ lives. * Also, many stories only emphasize one of these, ignoring two at once! * For the sake of brevity, we’ll focus on those who try getting 2 out of 3.

Stories try to show goodness+truth, not beauty* Most of us who think of bad/shallow evangelical stories think of this.
For instance, many Christian social dramas want to show good behavior.
And many of these movies also want to show characters extolling truth.
Readers see these emphases in many works of Christian-made fiction.
But if they’re not made with creative excellence, beauty, they suffer.
They also fail to meet the needs of our neighbors who need beauty.
Stephen once debated a friend who seemed to be getting this all wrong.
Friend thought Christians should “sell all we have” and live communally.
This ignores the God-given human need for beauty even in our homes.
Similarly, a story author could say “only the story matters, not the cover.”
But in fact the cover does matter. God wants excellence in all our works!
Without this excellence, our stories inactively harm our neighbors.
Such stories are bad and even lie by saying “God’s work is not beautiful.”
So by ignoring beauty, these stories also ignore goodness and truth.

So what should we do?* Look for stories that value biblical beauty, celebrating our Creator! * Read both Genesis 1 and Exodus 28, ordering “for glory and for beauty.”

Stories try to show beauty+truth, not goodness* Many people struggle with Christian creations that ignore goodness.
We would group this under the biblical commands to love other people.
This is more about bad artist behavior that you do not see, covered up.
For instance, a huge cathedral may proclaim truth and look magnificent.
But behind the scenes, they exploited people and laborers to build it.
Similarly, a book may look amazing and even reflect biblical orthodoxy.
But if the author does not act like a faithful Christian, that’s hypocrisy.
Worse than hypocrisy, the story’s author is failing to act like Jesus Christ.
Without this goodness, these stories inactively harm our neighbors.
Such stories are ugly and even lie by saying “God is not actually good.”
So by ignoring goodness, these stories also ignore beauty and truth.

So what should we do?* Look for stories that value biblical goodness, following our Savior! * Read from 1 Corinthians 13, Paul’s view of what goodness/love truly is.

Stories try to show beauty+goodness, not truth

Quotes and notes* “He Gets Us” ad * “He Saves Us” response video * A Tale of Two Ads, Joe Rigney at WORLD Magazine, Feb. 23, 2024
Now we come to the part where we talk more about that Big Game ad!
The ad wanted to show that “Jesus didn’t teach hate. He washed feet.”
While many found the ad beautiful and good, it’s based on several lies.
Read the whole text of the account, John 13:1–20, hearing Jesus’s words.
He does not leave this vague, but explains why he did this act at all.
For instance, Jesus washed the feet of 11 apostles and one enemy.
He foregrounded his reasons as part of His death and based in the Law.
Foot-washing was not simply a decent act, but a ritualistic purification.
He spells out the one exception: Judas. “Not all of you are clean” (v. 11).
There is no place for revising this story as “Jesus did nice things for all.”
That tells our neighbors a great and harmful lie about Jesus’ reasons.
And by the way, the “teach hate” line also lies about other Christians.
Unfortunately, other stories attempt similar lies for “good” reasons.
Without this truth, these stories inactively harm our neighbors.
Such stories are ugly and bad by saying “God is not actually truthful.”
So by ignoring truth, these stories also ignore beauty and goodness.

So what should we do?* Look for stories that value biblical truth, listening to the Holy Spirit! * Read from 2 Timothy, especially 3:14–4:5, about why we proclaim truth.

Com stationTop question for listeners Have you benefited from stories that valued beauty, goodness, and truth?*

Next on Fantastical TruthHand-washing. Social distancing. Fired employees. Air transmission. Four long years ago, the 195 nations lived together … then, everything changed when the COVID-19 virus attacked. How did lockdowns change culture? How did our reality’s upheaval affect our enjoyment of fictional worlds?

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Today is Fantastical Truth episode 200! This gives a great occasion for us to consider not just how we find the best Christian-made fantasy, but why we must explore fantastical stories for God’s glory.

Episode sponsors1. Oasis Audio: “1232” epic audio podcast 2. Return of the Lost Ones by David Liberto 3. Realm Makers: 2024 writers conference

Mission update* Article: What If I Find Sexual Identity Notions in My Child’s New Book? * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

Quotes and notes* This foundational episode fits into our series called Fiction’s Chief End. * Previous episodes explore what we mean by the phrase “Christian story.” * We’ve also explored we need genres like fiction, fantasy, and sci-fi. * Also, what’s our one job in reading stories? And what about horror?

‘Lorehaven helps Christian fans …’* Here’s our mission statement from the About page at Lorehaven.com:

Lorehaven helps Christian fans explore fantastical stories for Christ’s glory: fantasy, science fiction, and beyond.

Stephen briefly recaps the Lorehaven origin story.
Lorehaven isn’t like ministries that teach Bible study or church work.
We’re also not focused on “Christians engaging the popular culture.”
Nor are we an evangelistic enterprise. We’re an outreach to Christians.
And we’re meant for Christians who already like these stories, or want to.
‘… Explore fantastical stories …’* Christian readers already want fantastical stories (and/or for their kids).
But they often return to secular markets and expecting Moral Values.
We don’t oppose this, but why ignore great Christian-made stories?
We talked about this in our recent article about Sexual Identity Notions.
Implicit in our phrase is our focus on Christian-made fantastical stories.
After all, only these stories are made with the goal of glorifying God.
Secular-made stories, even the best ones, glory Him by accident.
See the Exodus phrase that God will “get glory over” Pharaoh.
God will “get glory over” anything, but get glory through His people.
‘… for God’s glory’* What we don’t mean by God’s glory: only obviously spiritual tasks
Christians still assume that “ministry” is only churchy or charity work
(Even one recent big game ad repeated this very traditional myth!)
But when we say “God’s glory,” we mean all that’s wonderful in God.
John Piper often teaches about God’s glory, and he wrote this:

Here is an attempt at a definition: the glory of God is the infinite beauty and greatness of God’s manifold perfections. I am focusing on the manifestation of his character and his worth and his attributes. All of his perfections and greatness are beautiful as they are seen, and there are many of them. That is why I use the word manifold. Here it is in another sentence: the glory of God is the infinite beauty and greatness of his manifold perfections.

‘What is God’s Glory?’, Ask Pastor John podcast, July 22, 2014

From there we apply the phrase for God’s glory to what we do as fans.
We believe that exploring stories must be an act of worshiping God.
Nonfiction often can’t do this as well. We are not “brains in tanks.”
Even before the Incarnation, God was acting narratively in the world.
He reveals Himself not just as propositional truths, but as Jesus Christ.
The Holy Spirit gives His truth in the Bible, yet makes it live in our lives.
So also we see ourselves reflected in fictional heroes with journeys.

Com station How do you glorify God specifically by enjoying fantastical stories?*

Next on Fantastical TruthNobody claims to like “hatred.” That’s bad. Everybody claims they want to “love their neighbor.” That’s good. But what does this mean? Should Christian-made stories repeat these messages so that readers know Christians are good and not bad? And do stories made with this goal actually help or hurt our neighbors?

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After fired actors and many flopped franchises, we can discern Disney’s real problems yet appreciate its legacy of stories.

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When friends prefer players and points over dragons and spaceships, let’s find in Scripture the purposes of both games and stories.

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Unlike old gaming stereotypes, video games are blending the best of multiple creative fields into playable adventures that can glorify God.

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We go behind the scenes at Enclave Publishing to follow the creation of a new fantastical novel: from draft to page design to final publication.

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Traditional literary heroes pursue virtue, but some modern stories prefer a novel notion of “empowerment.”

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For many reasons, last year's corporate fantasies like Disney, Marvel, DC Comics, Star Wars, and Doctor Who haven't fared well with fans.

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Achoo! Stephen, Zack, and ten previous podcast guests explore how some stories contain genre substances we just can’t handle.

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From the city of Minas Tirith to Sam versus Shelob to the Rohirrim’s charge, we recall our epic experience with The Lord of the Rings films.

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C. S. Lewis mocked secular “trumpery” and J. R. R. Tolkien wrote Santa fanfiction for his children, yet both men celebrated the Incarnation.

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Whether we prefer our stories hot and savory, or cool and sweet, Scripture commands us to practice reasonable limits.

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Just in time for C. S. Lewis's Nov. 29 birthday, we explore our favorites of the famous author's nonfiction and fantastical stories.

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Podcasts and polemics about hot topics might become profitable tools that Christian creators need to make culture for generations.

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Explore the mysterious lands of Aerwiar in this growing fantasy world of creatures to be fought, tamed, or trusted.

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Satan is still prowling the Earth and tricking people into the darkness of the real occult.

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From a king who inquired of the dead, to a party-crashing disembodied hand, to a "ghost" walking on the waves, all of Scripture's spooky accounts point to Christ.

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God’s word helps us confront wickedness in ourselves and the world, while great stories also help train our hearts for these spiritual battles.

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While some people want to restrict books and critics condemn “bans,” the most feared Book of all tells us to discern all things for Christ’s sake.

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When we get lost in a wonderful land, let's resist darkness and follow the narrow brick road toward the promised City for eternal saints.

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In this new series, framed artworks become magical portals to other worlds, thanks to one homeschool mom and middle-grade author.

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Sara Ella explores her duology inspired by Alice in Wonderland, where whimsy leads to joy and "nonsense" beckons to foundational truth.

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Inspired by Nancy R. Pearcey's new book The Toxic War on Masculinity, we compare the "Real" Man with the good men in fantastical stories.

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We hear a lot about “evangelical bubbles,” even on this podcast.[1. Photo by Juliana Romão on Unsplash] People say that Christians ought not live in their insular spaces, but make better stories that help reflect our world. Some encourage believers to plant oases of imagination to serve the common good. Others seem to put their own “oases” onto armored platforms to roll around the territory, firing paintballs. Are these our only choices: influencing mainstream culture versus more aggressive work to “own the libs”? Today, we shall explore pros, cons, and legit Christian-alternative stories that help relieve all our “culture wars.”

Subscribe to Lorehavenmiddle grade • teens + YA • adults • onscreen • author resources • gifts • guild

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: The Eternity Gate by Katherine Briggs 2. The Pop Culture Parent by Ted Turnau, E. Stephen Burnett, and Dr. Jared Moore 3. The Lorehaven Guild

Concession stand* This is almost a very quickly developed sequel to episode 176. * This is something many of our listeners will have thought about. * And in our last episode 177, Marian Jacobs set this up by the end. * For those hoping to “engage the culture,” you can’t ignore “culture war.” * And for those hoping to move past real conflicts, you also can’t ignore it. * Some people have other conflicts going on. They can’t handle this “war.” * In that case, it helps to know whether/how to support those who can.

Culture War: “stories are too good for the enemy”* James Davison Hunter coined the phrase “culture wars” in a 1992 book.
Here’s the back cover from Culture Wars: The Struggle to Define America:

A riveting account of how Christian fundamentalists, Orthodox Jews, and conservative Catholics have joined forces in a battle against their progressive counterparts for control of American secular culture.

That sounds about right. But these “wars” are bigger than just the U. S.
They affect all of our imaginations and the kinds of books that we see.
Some of Christian-made fantasy goes bad thanks to “the culture wars.”
Authors may see their story as a tool in the fight, rather than a story first.
Now we’re also seeing cultural conservatives say, “hey, we need fiction.”
The late Rush Limbaugh “wrote” time-travel history fantasy with his wife.
Newer publishers are selling virtue-oriented children’s picture books.
The Daily Wire is filming even now in Hungary for The Pendragon Cycle.
Cf. this article: “Why Storytelling Can Save Conservatism.”
(Even there, the emphasis is on saving a movement, not destroying.)
We’ve had some of these folks on here before, and heard questions.
What are these pundit types doing, trying to make popular culture?
Aren’t they just stuffing books and shows into cannons to fire at folks?
On one hand, branding may be difficult, given audience expectations.
In most battlefields, too many will use any thing just to “own the libs.”
Often this isn’t even about real victory, but mere good “vibes” of victory.
Some of this stuff is indeed propaganda, shiny-looking, but not helpful.
Other stuff looks really good, coming from a sincere love for storytelling.
I use our five-questions set to find the graces/idols in “culture war” too.
Soldiers have always tactically “retreated” to stories and humanity’s best.
Remember that without serious war, we wouldn’t have Tolkien and Lewis.
Some “culture warriors” can also make their way to this old tradition.
Culture Pacifism: “stuff creative flowers into rifles”* Many of our listeners may find this view attractive. They are tired of war.
Either they’ve been in “culture wars” or are simply sick of hearing them.
Sticking with the metaphor, PTSD is real; this is a much milder version.
Or maybe folks just recognize that “all fighting, all the time” isn’t healthy.
So in reaction, some Christians embrace this kind of culture pacifism.
E.g. Art and stories and imagination are the key to renewing humanity.
“Because walls and weapons wound people, let’s do away with them all.”
“In fact, any criticism (even gracious and firm) will hurt people, so avoid.”
“We know that ‘the world is watching,’ so let’s be on our best behavior.”
But what does “the world” mean? Particular groups? Victims or enemies?
Enemies often have real tragic backstories, yet they’re still our enemies.
Jesus never said “you have no enemies.” He said, “love your enemies.”
Love means saying “no” to an enemy. Many view this as an act of war.
Stories and imagination won’t hurt sinfully dead hearts. Only Christ can.
And we must admit that some “culture war” is necessary (Romans 13).
Governments should reward good and punish evil, as God’s servant.
In any culture (especially a republic), citizens act as part of government.
But we must also see the good here. “Culture war” folks must discern.
We’re not always fighting a cultural oppressor. Sometimes we must talk.
Every legitimate war has pauses, retreats, alliances, diplomacy, treaties.
Don’t start a war you aren’t prepared to win—without a plan for peace.
Culture engagement: know your rank and mission* We may not (and should not be?) full-time “soldiers” in these conflicts.
Let’s not oppose the “culture wars.” Some things should be fought over.
But it does matter if we see all of life centered around endless fighting.
Christians may debate actual war, but all believe in defending the good.
On the other hand, every fantastic creator comments on these “wars.”
Even those who oppose “the culture wars” are enjoining the conflict.
Logically, nothing-but-”war” turns you into a self-destroying mercenary.
Logically, nothing-but-”peace” can turn you into a cowardly enabler.
In either case, we’re not always warriors! We’re saints with many callings.
That’s why we suggest: Christian fan, know your rank and mission.
Know what “hat” you wear. Practice discernment. Who’s your opponent?
Don’t serve coffee to a combatant. And don’t scream at “man of peace.”
And as story fans, we believe fiction has purpose beyond mere fighting.
This calls for wisdom. Yeah, some are called to be the firebrand pundits.
Most are called to simple faithfulness to church, family, jobs, friends.
Imaginative works are, as Turnau said, an oasis to connect with others.
So even if we blanch at related claims, we’re back to believing in oases.

Mission update Recent articles, reviews, news, podcast episodes * Our new book quest began: The Beast of Talesend * Recent book review: Sara Ella’s The Looking-Glass Illusion* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild.

Next on Fantastical Truth“Whoa. Dudes, that was such an edgy movie. The star of the show drinks so much. I wish I could be like him.” “Wow, bro, and that book was amazing. And that hero, he’s a ‘Real’ Man. I can tell because he drove fast cars. Also he had eleventeen girlfriends and even more visible abs. He shot people with guns without asking nicely for anything, and also he’s a lone free ranger.” That’s a “Real” Man, according to many stories, fantastical and otherwise. But how can great stories expose the idols of the “Real” Man versus the good man we should strive to know, or become, following the best God-Man, Jesus Christ? Inspired by Nancy Pearsay’s new book The Toxic War on Masculinity, we’ll stand tall and take a square-jawed look at this controversy.

Culture Wars: The Struggle To Control The Family, Art, Education, Law, And Politics In America

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Alas! We must report that another back-to-school season has come upon us, and we Muggles haven’t gotten our letter to Hogwarts.[1. Photo by Gabriel Kraus on Unsplash.] But since the 1990s, that infamous wizarding world has received plenty of Howlers, not just from concerned Christians but from zealous fans and even sexual activists. One recent podcast, “The Witch Trials of J. K. Rowling,” brewed all this into a bubbling cauldron of controversy. Now our own staff writer Marian Jacobs, who’s crafting her own book about a biblical Christian worldview of fictional magic, appears in our studio to help teach defense against these dark arts.

Subscribe to Lorehavenmiddle grade • teens + YA • adults • onscreen • author resources • gifts • guild

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Savage Bred by Victoria McCombs 2. The Pop Culture Parent by Ted Turnau, E. Stephen Burnett, and Dr. Jared Moore 3. Michelle M. Bruhn: Songflight and Stormdance

Concession stand This is less about the Potter series and more about this “Witch Trials” podcast. * Just like Rowling, let’s be careful to discern between victims and victimizers. * This podcast includes gross worldviews and misogynist, vulgar quotes. * When we say “legalism,” we mean any unbiblical rules treated as biblical. * When we say “fandom,” we mean any group of story readers/viewers. * When we say “sexual activism,” we mean a new political/religious/social cause. * This newer religion prizes human sexual autonomy over traditional human views. * Stephen calls this novelty religious/social belief system “Sexualityism.” * When leaders use this to alter policy, he calls this “sexual imperialism.” * This all seems very philosophical—thus our Back to Magic School series! * But we think this podcast is vital* to help Christian fans discern our world.

Introducing guest Marian Jacobs

Marian Jacobs has created Lorehaven stories since the first print issue, exploring Jesus, monsters, and spaceships. Her work has also featured at Desiring God and Stage and Story. Follow all Marian’s progress at MAJacobs.com. Sign up and get her free steampunk fantasy Automated. Her first nonfiction book, a scriptural analysis and guide to discerning fictional magic, is set for summer 2025 release from B&H Publishing.

Her fictional wizards uncloaked Christian legalism.* “Witch Trials” episode 2 focuses on this, with great sense of proportion.
One implicit point: Christian critics should have seen Rowling as human.
Unlike one infamous Onion satire, she was never a witch, just a woman.
We need the biblical anthropology that Rowling reflects in her world.
But she needs the biblical theology Christians have in the real world.
Rowling shows compassion toward HP’s conservative Christian critics
Largely, so does the podcast, with sympathetic portrayals on all sides.
Yet many Christians must answer for being driven by secular media then.
(Similarly, we must practice better discernment with conservative media.)
John MacArthur and John Hagee make cameos; only Hagee gets named.
Todd Friel of the Wretched ministry also makes a cameo, but not named.
(Friel is also a much later HP criticizer—not in the era being described.
Her bestselling books built a next-gen fandom.* Podcast episode 3 really focuses on how Harry Potter met internet.
MuggleNet: founded in 1999 by 12-year-old Indiana homeschool kid!
Early fandom bullies and trolls had disproportionate power in forums.
We can view “trolls” as similar to the biblical term fools (as in Proverbs).
Starting around 2012, Rowling observed a negative shift in fandoms.
Rowling does well showing “critical appreciation” for her own fandom.
As in our last episode 176, this shows some amazing common grace.
In the ’90s, people hoped for “collective consciousness on the internet.”
Now we’re dealing with reality. Digital worlds connect yet divide us.
On person on the show said, “Social media has corrupted the dream …”
No, that was human sin—the greatest ignored villain in this whole series.
Of course, Big Tech profit motives, valued over humanity, is also an idol.
The show cites nonfiction book Kill All Normies about 4Chan vs. Tumblr.
This meme seems true: Tumblr was a big source for synthetic morals.
By “synthetic morals,” we mean inorganic, social lab–grown “holiness.”
For example, notions of “cultural appropriation” and “problematic” sins.
Tumblr, et. al. made expressive individualism go viral at popular level.
These cultural influences aren’t like earlier “cancel cultures,” either.
Tumblr spread ideas to Twitter, which spread them to elite journalists.
This made a far disproportionate influence on culture’s thought leaders.
Her new critiques anger modern sexual activists.* Who said this: “You will die alone and you will burn in Hell!”?
In this case, it was not a fundamentalist Christian zealot, but an activist.
Ep. 4 shared wisdom about internet trolls with disproportionate power
Ep. 4 also exposed how fans abused imagination (at best) for “identities.”
Later episodes seem to forget this and assume sexual activism is valid.
Bari Weiss, Megan Phelps-Roper and others can “afford” to be moderate.
Rowling has similar gifts of good education and a process of healing.
Desperate and angry younger sexual activists do/will not have either.
Hosts and guests talk about “the common good” but cannot define this.
Similarly, they have no ultimate moral foundation for “human rights.”
They also talk about reflecting human nature, but again, can’t define it.
The HP series is not limited to mere presentations of “acceptance.”
Rowling herself said they explore much more: a fuller human experience.
This will of course includes but isn’t limited to concepts of “acceptance.”
Critics claim that Rowling is in a “bubble,” but often lack self-awareness.
They take the presumed moral high ground, often showing arrogance.
Frankly, the podcast unwittingly grants them this premise in many ways.
Episode 7 may have a “tell.” Rowling says, “I’m afraid…” Clearly she is.
It makes sense that she does fear; loudest voices have the most power.
Yet she is also courageous, perhaps even more without Christian hope.
Why prioritize one victim group’s pain over another? It is self-defeating.
Apart from Christ, you can only resolve this through raw acts of power.
Apart from Jesus, the only solution is culture war, anger, activism, hatred.
Finally, Rowling and the host speak of “discernment” and righteousness.
They even speak of “grace” and “redemption” for characters and people.
These are very biblically based terms, making it sound almost Christian!
So logically, let’s go the whole way and return to biblical foundations.

Mission update This week’s review previews Sara Ella’s fantasy The Looking-Glass Illusion*. * We’ve revamped our Facebook group to focus on the Lorehaven Library. * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild.

Com stationOne hero of the Guild, BlessedArtistHW, loved last week’s ep. 176:

As someone who was raised in a very sheltered, almost no-magic, limited allowed Disney movies, keep-away-from-the-world environment, I really appreciated this week’s ⁠🌴176: Oasis of Imagination? episode!

Next on Fantastical TruthWe hear a lot about “evangelical bubbles,” even on this podcast. People say that Christians ought not live in their insular spaces, but make better stories that help reflect our world. Some, like our last guest Ted Turnau, encourage believers to plant oases of imagination to serve the common good. Others seem to put their own “oases” onto armored platforms to roll around the territory, firing paintballs. Are these our only choices: influencing mainstream culture versus “owning the libs”? Next week, we shall explore pros, cons, and legit “Christian alternative” creative works that are busting both categories.

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Ted Turnau (Popologetics, The Pop Culture Parent) subverts cultural idols and challenges us to engage our world through better creativity.

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Christians have long believed aliens are demons, while unbelievers may see these mythical creatures as brutish beasts or enlightened beings.

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“Adventures in Odyssey” founding father Phil Lollar rejoins us to share how great stories go beyond feelings to help renew our minds in Christ.

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While storytellers strike against studios, and fans reject many franchise movies, Christians can discern the goodness and evils of Hollywood.

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Despite thorns, thistles, and other idols that corrupt God’s callings, let’s show our respect for authors who work hard to make great stories.

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We asked conference newcomers and authors alike how wonderful stories have led them to rediscover truth and worship Jesus Christ.

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As we try using artificial intelligence to make upgraded books and images, we may find humanity itself getting downgraded.

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With great freedom comes great responsibility, not using fiction sins to gratify the flesh but to worship Jesus and serve one another.

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Since summer 2008, The Shack has helped many readers feel they could relate to God, but also challenged many gospel realities.

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If Christians truly want to share fantastic stories, they must raise their children to value these works and the hard choices of creativity.

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People criticize Christian creators for working with nonbelievers, but the Bible assumes we’ll face these challenges in a mixed-up world.

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Sci-fi’s final frontiers and evil empires train us to live with purpose and engage challenges back home on Earth.

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Many fantastical tales look okay, but may endorse ungodly ideas. That’s why more conservative groups are offering newer fiction to teach your kids moral values. How can Christian parents find the good stuff that will disciple your children’s heads and hearts? In this session recorded live at the March 2023 Teach Them Diligently conference in central Texas, Lorehaven founder E. Stephen Burnett (coauthor of The Pop Culture Parent) explores discernment in light of the gospel, offering practical resources for parents to share the best books and other stories within the body of Christ.

Subscribe to Lorehavenmiddle grade • teens + YA • adults • onscreen • author resources • gifts • guild

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Estuary by Lisa T. Bergren 2. The Wizard’s Stone by Herman P. Hunter 3. The Pop Culture Parent

Concession stand* This audio was recorded live, not at the most recent conferences * … But the Teach Them Diligently event near Austin in late March. * We get to use this recording thanks to the courtesy of Teach Them Diligently. * Also, this happens to help celebrate more family resources at Lorehaven!

Find great stories that glorify God.* Problem: We may assume we know what great stories should do.
Solution: Let’s base our view of stories’ purpose in the Scripture.
Find great stories that help children be like Jesus.* Problem: Some stories want your child to follow other “saviors.”
Solution: Look for stories that help your child worship Jesus.
Find stories that help your family build the Church.* Problem: Some stories ignore the gospel; others ignore creation.
Solution: Seek out stories that help believers disciple one another.

Com stationDavid W. Landrum commented on Jenneth Dyck’s article “The Chosen Succeeds Where ‘Woke’ Stories Fail” saying this:

I loved the scene after the wedding where Jesus turned water into wine. He and his disciples are going home and some of them are stumbling. Some of them had a little too much to drink. Yep, some of them were drunk! But if the best wine the steward there had ever tasted had been served, that might well have been true. I love the realism, the recognition of his followers as human, and the authenticity of the production. These were real people. We’ve made them into allegorical characters and comic book figures. The Chosen has depicted them as human beings.

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As hundreds of homeschool families head to Florida for the annual FPEA conference, we flash back to this spring’s Teach Them Diligently conference in central Texas.[1. Photo from Teach Them Diligently 2023 in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., courtesy Scott Minor.] What growing challenges do homeschool families face in our culture? What kinds of fantastical stories do they seek for their children?

Subscribe to Lorehavenarticles • news • library • reviews • podcast • gifts • guild

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Estuary by Lisa T. Bergren 2. The Wizard’s Stone by Herman P. Hunter 3. The Pop Culture Parent

Concession standThis episode is the latest of a whole series about homeschool families:

1. Why Do Homeschool Families Love Christian-Made Fantastical Fiction?
1. What If Homeschool Families Can Help Christian Fantasy Grow for Generations?
1. Why Do Homeschooled Students Love Fantastical Fiction? | with Ethan Nunn
What do parents think about Christian fantasy?2. How does homeschool dad Aaron find great kids’ stories?3. How does homeschool mom Christina find great kids’ stories?Com stationF. Ted Atchley enjoyed episode 152 about healing from church trauma:

This is really long, but it is such an important discussion. I especially identified with L. G. McCary’s story.

Next on Fantastical TruthMany fantastical tales look okay, but may endorse ungodly ideas. That’s why more conservative groups are offering newer fiction to teach your kids moral values. How can Christian parents find the good stuff that will disciple your children’s heads and hearts? In this session recorded live at the March 2023 Teach Them Diligently conference in central Texas, Lorehaven publisher E. Stephen Burnett (coauthor of The Pop Culture Parent) explores discernment in light of the gospel, offering practical resources for parents to share the best books and other stories within the body of Christ.

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Our podcast is Fantastical Truth.[1. Photo by Tom Radetzki on Unsplash.] Yet even seeking the truth can lead us into shadowy places. How can we discern these conspiracy theories without rejecting the truth that humans do often plot secretly, or falling into the trap of Gnostic “secret knowledge”? Mike Duran, author of the new nonfiction book Christians and Conspiracy Theories, will sneak into the studio.

Subscribe to Lorehavenarticles • news • library • reviews • podcast • gifts • guild

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Estuary by Lisa T. Bergren 2. The Wizard’s Stone by Herman P. Hunter 3. The Pop Culture Parent

Concession stand As always, any political references are about issues, not parties/persons. * If you’re new to Fantastical Truth, we’re not a conspiracy-theory show. * (So please don’t @ us with any favorite theories that we somehow missed.) * Mike Duran is a trusted friend who also* focuses on greater fantastical issues.

Reintroducing author Mike Duran

Mike Duran is a novelist, artist, and freelance writer. Mike writes fiction and non-fiction. He is the author of The Ghost Box (Blue Crescent Press, 2014), which was selected by Publishers Weekly as one of the best indie novels of 2015 and first in a paranoir series that continues with Saint Death (2016), and The Third Golem (2020). He’s the author of Christians and Conspiracy Theories (2023) and Christian Horror (2015) His short stories, essays, and commentary have appeared in Relief Journal, Cemetery Gates Media, The Gospel Coalition, Relevant Online, Bewildering Stories, Rue Morgue, Zombies magazine, Breakpoint, and other print and digital outlets. Mike is interested in religion, science, conspiracism, media, books & monsters. You can learn more about Mike Duran, his writing projects, cultural commentary, philosophical musings, and arcane interests, at MikeDuran.com .

What led you from fantastical worlds to this topic?2. Why do some Christian leaders avoid this issue?3. How can Christians better engage these theories?Mission update Reviews: last, The Lost Property Office; next, The Crossing: Arlan’s Pledge*
Mike Duran’s article with his book excerpt, posted just yesterday
Shannon Stewart’s upcoming article exploring Link’s heroism
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Next on Fantastical TruthAs hundreds of homeschool families head to Florida for the annual FPEA conference, we flash back to this spring’s Teach Them Diligently conference in central Texas. What growing challenges do homeschool families face in our culture? What kinds of fantastical stories do they seek for their children?

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Imagine a mind virus has taken over people you love. You have fought the good fight. Now you’re tired and feel like retreating. You and some old friends are desperate for a solution. Then one captain says he has a surprise. You open vast hangar bay doors to discover … a wonderful fantasy franchise, lovingly restored, with everything back as it should be, yet better. But how? “Well,” says the restorationist, “you can thank the good ol’ common grace of our Creator for that. Also, I’m a lot like you—a huge fan of the original.” Yes, many franchises are failing. So let’s celebrate a few that seek restoration!

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Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Radiant by Ashley Bustamante 2. The Wizard’s Stone by Herman P. Hunter 3. The Pop Culture Parent

Concession stand Especially when exploring Picard*, we’ll try to avoid spoilers . * Optimism about present/future restoration is still limited by reality. * Most franchises are restricted by bad stories, so a good one stands out. * This episode is a more positive sequel to two previous episodes: * 144. Which Top Six Fantasy Franchises Gave Fans Grief in 2022? * 153. When Can Deconstructionism Threaten Christian Fiction? | with Michael Young aka ‘Wokal Distance

First the bad news: many franchises are still failing Star Wars*. Fans are really feeling the Meh-dolorian (cf. Pitch Meeting).
DC. Excitement about Gunn’s reboot seems artificial/shallow/trend-based.
Marvel. There was a new movie this weekend. Its numbers are lackluster.
Disney. Still failing. Did anyone see that Peter Pan remake? Lowery, why?
LOTR: Again, we’re still reeling about the thud that was TROP season 1.
Harry Potter: On the ropes, despite talk of a streaming series remake.
Doctor Who. Tennant’s back but it’s kinda bait. Showrunner goes Sexualityist.
Oh, then there’s the writers’ strike, which could set back all the things!

ONSCREEN: ‘Star Trek: Picard’ Resists Alien Assimilation to Boldly Celebrate Heroes and Family

Yes, the third season of Star Trek: Picard really is that good. That’s especially true if you grew up enjoying the Enterprise-D crew’s adventures across seven seasons, or at least some of their continuing cinematic missions aboard the Enterprise-E. I’ll wager even Trek newcomers would find something to love. But longtime Trek fans will get the most enjoyment from long-open plot resolutions and, frankly, some drastic tonal and thematic course corrections after Picard‘s first two seasons got trapped in postmodern spatial anomalies.

If you’re still skeptical, especially after the grimdark mess and leftist elements of Discovery, I’d like to win you back aboard.

Star Trek: Picard does restoration at warp speed* Characters: back to normal, flawed yet matured; best of all, respected.
Plot: nods to disputative stories (seasons 1-2), resolves many old ones.
World: fully continuous with every older Trek series including Enterprise.
How we hope other franchises will learn from Trek* Right now, Disney/Marvel, Doctor Who, TROP already seem too far gone.
Star Trek itself needs to forge its respectful future with Star Trek: Legacy.
The other Star world needs to let go and use the force of its own legacy.
Creators must heed the “sacred [world] texts,” interpreted with honor.
Ignore both Abrams-style fanservice or Johnson-style “deconstruction.”
If WBD remakes Harry Potter, don’t “woke” it up. Films mark a tall order.
DC, whatever else they do, must commit to completing the Snyderverse.
Emphasize music, meaningful “Easter eggs,” struggle-earned “nostalgia.”

Mission update Reviews: Radiant last Friday, The Lost Property Office* this Friday * Articles: How to Discern Beautiful Christian Fiction Without Becoming Snobs, from Josiah DeGraaf this Thursday * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Guild

Com stationAutumn shares a mostly positive view of cultural Christianity (ep. 160):

As far as cultural Christianity goes, I did have a lot of that growing up and for the most part it was beneficial. Christianity was explained pretty well for me at a young age, and it resonated with me when it came to ideas like the deep imperfection of humanity, the problems with vengeance, the need for forgiveness and mercy, etc. There were some downsides as well, though, such as the fact that even though the Bible was interesting to me, growing up with it made regular Bible reading feel like a chore that I had a hard time doing even though I knew it was important, good and meaningful. Still, the positives outweighed the negatives.

But one of the reasons growing up with cultural Christianity worked in my case was because Christianity DID mean a lot to me. I was always analyzing everything I heard, so instead of just taking the cliches at a surface level, I would try to figure out why certain aspects of Christianity existed. There were times I struggled with going through the motions, but I’m at least aware of that, and it’s something I’ve been working on over the years.

Next on Fantastical TruthOur podcast is Fantastical Truth. Yet even seeking the truth can lead us into shadowy places. How can we discern these conspiracy theories without rejecting the truth that humans do often plot secretly, or falling into the trap of Gnostic “secret knowledge”? Mike Duran, author of the new nonfiction book Christians and Conspiracy Theories, will sneak into the studio.

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Did you grow up in “cultural Christianity”? Do you think this background helped you love Jesus more, or drove you away from him? What would your neighbors think? As people debate whether we even live in a Christian culture, how do these public moral tropes and gospel reflections influence our stories, Christian-made or otherwise?

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Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Radiant by Ashley Bustamante 2. The Wizard’s Stone by Herman P. Hunter 3. The Pop Culture Parent

What do we mean by ‘cultural Christianity’?2. How does cultural Christianity hurt our stories?3. How can cultural Christianity help our stories?Quotes and notes* What is Cultural Christianity?, GotQuestions.org
In Praise of Cultural Christianity, Mere Orthodoxy
Pop Culture Gets Religion, Christianity Today
Positive, Negative, and Neutral World, First Things

Com stationJo Ann Dagis Samide enjoys “dangerous books” in right ways:

Reading this thread made me feel so nostalgic. I loved reading to and with my five kids when we homeschooled. We used sonlight curriculum which had a great deal of fabulous reading choices. My youngest is 20 and my oldest is 35, and they all talk about the days of reading aloud and what we learned….

Keep it up, folks, you are truly doing the Lord’s work!

R. M. Archer commented on Twitter about A. D. Sheehan’s article:

Though this topic is nothing new to me, I personally found this @Lorehaven article timely to share given my very recent disappointment with the Dungeons & Dragons movie and with the season 2 finale of The Mandalorian.

Andreas commented on the article itself:

Good article. I feel the same way. In recent years, I’ve been going back to the classics more and more. Jane Austen and Jules Verne in particular are just fun to read. I personally found your first point particularly challenging. When I read “The Inklings” by Humphrey Carpenter a while back, all I could think to myself was, “I could never be friends with Charles Williams!” But you’re right. In such cases, it can be helpful to put aside one’s theological beliefs to discover literary treasures.

Next on Fantastical TruthWe’ve explored how big franchises keep failing their fans. More recently we delved into how some fiction can’t stop deconstructing its own heroes and lore. That’s frankly discouraging. Still, we’re not without hope, because we know some destroyed worlds can be restored! If we’ve already felt grief over a story’s death, how can we best celebrate a story that comes back to life?

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What if you were a teenage prodigy who could use mathematics to predict the future? But finally your numbers-driven world collapsed into betrayal and kidnapping by a criminal empire? That’s the equation for Calculated and its sequels from novelist Nova McBee, who now joins today’s episode.

Introducing novelist Nova McBeeNova McBee, a Seattle native, has lived nearly half her life in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. Calculated is currently in development to become a major motion picture. Emmy-Award winning screenwriter, Ann Peacock, best known for The Chronicles of Narnia, will adapt the novel for the screen in partnership with One Door Studios, who owns the rights and options to all of the books. Visit NovaMcBee.com or OneDoorStudios.com for more information.

What images and ideas led to making Calculated?2. How have readers responded to Josephine’s tale?3. Can you predict what’s next for this story-world?Mission update* Article: Why The Mandalorian Makes Sense in a World That Masks Creedal Religion
Last week’s book review for Infernal Fall
This week’s book review for Calculated
Subscribe free to get updates and join the Guild

Com stationCM Genton was grateful for A. D. Sheehan’s media malaise:

Thank you, AD, for this article. Yes, I draw from the deep wells of classic literature as I write my futuristic science fiction. Were there ever the good old days of literature? I doubt it. But “zero-calorie diet of postmodern writing” is well put. Everything has gone flat. Or one could say, into the void has rushed fantastical creatures, gods, and demons, like in the most ancient times.

Jay DiNitto recalls that older stories often prove more daring:

With older books you avoid a lot of the ubiquitous cinematic tropes–usually. There was less of a set formula back then for characters, so writers could afford to get away with doing things that are odd to modern sensibilities.

Speaking of risks, Jenny Chasteen questions deconstructionism:

I know I’m late to this episode, but I wanted to thank you for #153, “When Can Deconstructionism Threaten Christian Fiction?”

I found the definition of postmodernism really thought-provoking, and I’d never fully connected that concept in my mind with the rising popularity of “deconstructing.”

As I listened to the episode, I started asking hard questions of the stories I write. I think of them as stories that support truth and portray a world that has “foundations.” But I realized that I’ve been subconsciously “deconstructing” some tropes and sometimes trying to make readers feel like they’re “in on the joke.”

Do you think that can be done in a way that’s actually constructive as long as I’m still showing a world where good and evil have weight? How can I show characters questioning and changing what they believe without falling for the deconstruction fad?

Next on Fantastical TruthWe’ll choose from one of two or more topics: (1) finding stories homeschool readers want, (2) how great stories reconstruct genres and heroes, (3) something else!

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Real life is already making fake “life” with artificial intelligence programs. But many science fiction writers have already rushed ahead to ask whether these artificial “lives” would count as human beings with human rights. Can we see the image of God reflecting in these synthetic creatures made in man’s image? Today we’re joined by a popular author who’s just passed the Turing test!

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Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: War of Torment by Ronie Kendig 2. Infernal Fall audiobook by Bryan Timothy Mitchell 3. Realm Makers 2023 conference

Introducing novelist Steven James

Steven James is host of The Story Blender podcast and the critically acclaimed author of eighteen novels, including the 2019 sci-fi Synapse, and numerous nonfiction books that have sold more than 1 million copies. His books have won or been shortlisted for dozens of national and international awards. In addition, his stories and articles have appeared in more than eighty different publications, including the New York Times. He is also a popular keynote speaker and professional storyteller with a master’s degree in storytelling. His latest thriller novel, Broker of Lies, just released in April.

StevenJames.net
Could we see artificial lifeforms in our lifetimes?2. How might our culture react to such lifeforms?3. How would believers react to synthetic ‘life’ and vice-versa?Quotes and notes

“But, in general, take my advice, when you meet anything that’s going to be human and isn’t yet, or used to be human once and isn’t now, or ought to be human and isn’t, you keep your eyes on it and feel for your hatchet.”
―C. S. Lewis, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

“Ginny!” said Mr. Weasley, flabbergasted. “Haven’t I taught you anything? What have I always told you? Never trust anything that can think for itself if you can’t see where it keeps its brain?”
―J. K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

And some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples.” He answered, “I tell you, if these were silent, the very stones would cry out.”
—Luke 19:39–40, ESV

This is how it ends: Someone added ChatGPT to a Furbie and it is hellbent on world domination
Is Microsoft’s new AI an absolutely based domestic extremist?

Mission update* The Last Battle’s Darkness Helps Me Long for Resurrection’s Light * Christians Who Feel Media Malaise Can Find Buried Treasure in Older Books * Why The Mandalorian Makes Sense in a World That Masks Creedal Religion * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild for monthly book quests

Com stationAfter episode 157, Guild hero Mahina anticipates resurrection reality:

I’m still stuck on the idea of resurrected food. Wow, it will be amazing. But even more so that sense of purpose. I’m so looking forward to that. I feel glimpses of that here in this life but to be fully and completely “of purpose” in everything I say, do, etc. woo! It’s going to be absolutely incredible. It’s what I yearn for in this life. There’s so much exciting stuff to be reminded of in eternity.. of course for the Christ followers. Others not so much. Which inspires me to double down on sharing my hope with those who don’t have Christs gift of salvation yet. Eternity is a long time.

Next on Fantastical TruthWhat if you could plan your destiny by seeing the world as an equation to be solved? Nova McBee arrives in the studio to share the stories behind the edge-of-sci-fi-dystopian Calculated and its sequels.

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Last weekend we remembered not only Jesus Christ’s perfect sacrifice, but his resurrection—the same resurrection he has promised for all who receive him. On this podcast we’ve explored Epic Resurrection before, but not with questions like: Do we get to fly? Could we “apparate” from place to place? Dive underwater for hours? Will we get superpowers after the Resurrection?

Subscribe to Lorehavenarticles • news • library • reviews • podcast • gifts • guild

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Enhanced by Candace Kade 2. Infernal Fall audiobook by Bryan Timothy Mitchell 3. Realm Makers 2023 conference

Concession stand* We’re building off five previous episodes in our Epic Resurrection series. * This means we assume the New Heavens and New Earth will be physical. * This means our selfsame universe/planet, judged and made new. * Any “normal” elements are a mere starting point for biblical speculation. * If we speak of New Earth coffee and you want time travel, why not both? * We believe it’s helpful to keep speculations grounded, at least at first. * Scripture does this with ordinary ideas: farming, animals, commerce. * We can’t cite Scriptures for all points; if we miss a reference, just ask! * Finally, these promises apply only to people who repent/believe in Jesus. * Scripture solemnly warns all will be resurrected, but some enter Hell.

What do we mean when we say “resurrection”?

But someone will ask, “How are the dead raised? With what kind of body do they come?” You foolish person! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies. And what you sow is not the body that is to be, but a bare kernel, perhaps of wheat or of some other grain. But God gives it a body as he has chosen, and to each kind of seed its own body. For not all flesh is the same, but there is one kind for humans, another for animals, another for birds, and another for fish. There are heavenly bodies and earthly bodies, but the glory of the heavenly is of one kind, and the glory of the earthly is of another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars; for star differs from star in glory.

So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable. It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. Thus it is written, “The first man Adam became a living being”; the last Adam became a life-giving spirit. But it is not the spiritual that is first but the natural, and then the spiritual. The first man was from the earth, a man of dust; the second man is from heaven. As was the man of dust, so also are those who are of the dust, and as is the man of heaven, so also are those who are of heaven. Just as we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the man of heaven.

I tell you this, brothers: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. (ESV)

(1 Corinthians 15:35–50, ESV)
We’re talking about bodies; this is the apostle Paul’s operative word.
We’ll see differences between our current bodies and future bodies.
Yet we also know what a body is; that’s why Paul uses natural language.
The phrase “spiritual body” has led to some readers’ confusion.
Randy Alcorn warns of “Christoplatonism” that puts us off resurrection.
Scripture never endorses ghosts, spiritoids, or some unearthly existence.

Alcorn has often explored misconceptions about 1 Corinthians 15:

When Paul uses the term “spiritual body” (1 Corinthians 15:44), he is not talking about a body made of spirit, or an incorporeal body—there is no such thing. Body means corporeal: flesh and bones. The word spiritual here is an adjective describing body, not negating its meaning. A spiritual body is first and foremost a real body or it would not qualify to be called a body. Paul could have simply said, “It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spirit,” if that were the case. . . .

When Paul says that “flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God,” he’s referring to our flesh and blood as they are now: cursed and under sin. Our present bodies are fallen and destructible, but our future bodies—though still bodies in the fullest sense—will be untouched by sin and indestructible. They will be like Christ’s resurrection body—both physical and indestructible.

Challenge 1: Doesn’t the Bible promise “this world is not our home”?
Challenge 2: What about Christians already died; aren’t they bodiless?
Challenge 3: Doesn’t the Bible warn “no eye has seen, no ear has heard”?
How will resurrection bodies be perfectly human?* Stephen uses the words “perfectly human” literally: human yet perfected.
Today we can live for any time at all. Tomorrow we will live forever.
Today we enjoy food and drink with risks. Tomorrow we can enjoy more.
Today we’re subject to “futility” (Rom. 8). Tomorrow we’ll have purpose.
Today we’re vulnerable to disease, injury. Tomorrow we’ll be invincible.
Today we’re subject to temptation and sin. Tomorrow we’ll be perfect.

Alcorn again:

Judging from Christ’s resurrection body, a spiritual body appears most of the time to look and act like a regular physical body, with the exception that it may have (and in Christ’s case it does have) some powers of a metaphysical nature; that is, beyond normal physical abilities.

Challenge 1: What if you dive underwater and try to breath in the ocean?
Challenge 2: What if you jump off a cliff and don’t have a parachute?
Challenge 3: What if you open a spaceship airlock into the vacuum?
How may resurrection bodies act supernaturally?* Jesus seems to say humans are “like the angels” in one (annoying?) way.
That reference is Matthew 22:30, about which much ink has been spilled.
At least one Scripture indicates resurrected saints will be like Jesus:

See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.

(1 John 3:1–3, ESV, emphasis added)

Challenge 1: Whether normal or super, why would we “need” these gifts?
Challenge 2: What if we stay perfectly normal, yet can enjoy miracles?
Challenge 3: What if we make technologies that give us “superpowers”?

Quotes and notes* Will our resurrected body have superhero powers? – Voyage Comics * Seven Qualities of Our Resurrection Bodies * The Pentagon collected research that warned Soviets with “super-human abilities” could shoot lightning out of their hands * 7 actual superpowers certain humans have, due to genetic mutation

Mission update We reviewed Mary Schlegel’s epic fantasy Son of the Shield. * Elijah David explores Lewis’s The Last Battle.* * Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild! * Meanwhile, we’re organizing a special summer challenge for families.

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“We come to it at last: the great battle of our time.” Last week we shared this metaphor, and since then the cultural struggles have heated up even more. This is mainly because of our world’s possibly fastest-growing religion, which we call Sexualityism—that is, strong belief in one’s own sexual identity, which usually leads to false worship, legislation, and culture wars. One guest who’s experienced with these beliefs, and taken some heat for this, joins us to enjoin this foe. How might this belief threaten not just biblical Christianity, but even some fantastical stories made by Christian creators?

Introducing guest Bethel McGrew

Bethel McGrew is a high school teacher, math Ph.D., and widely published freelance writer. Her work has appeared in First Things, National Review, The Spectator, and many other national and international outlets. Her Substack, Further Up, is one of the top paid newsletters in “Faith & Spirituality” on the platform. She has also contributed to two essay anthologies on Jordan Peterson. When not writing social criticism, she enjoys writing about literature, film, music, and history.

Follow Bethel McGrew on Twitter @‌BMcGrewvy.

Quotes and notes How the Side B Project Failed, Bethel McGrew, March 14, 2023 * The Last of Us and its unnecessary sexualization, Feb. 16, 2023 * Killing Dead Name*, Bethel McGrew, Feb. 10, 2023 * The broken, the sheep, the wolves, Bethel McGrew, Nov. 16, 2022 * Mutilating Our Bodies, Bethel McGrew, July 1, 2022

From Bethel’s article The broken, the sheep, the wolves:

Carl Trueman, in a recent podcast, encourages Christians to distinguish carefully between the victims and the perpetrators of the new sexual revolution—the people who are being “destroyed” and the people who are destroying them. We should handle the former tenderly, but we should handle the latter “ruthlessly.” With some people, it is possible to be too gentle, too ready to assume good faith. On the other hand, Trueman points out that it is possible to forget many people are suffering, and not all of them have the singular goal of destroying Western civilization.

Concession stand (full buffet edition)* After months of discussion, last month we began planning this series. * Now we find that cultural conversations about sex/gender are hotter. * We will proceed, yet more aware of how sensitive these topics can be. * This goes double if you’re very tired/sick/depressed, and need to rest. * That’s why this series is meant for folks whom God has gifted strength. * If that’s not you, don’t worry. Rest up. Just don’t oppose your family. * And as before, don’t listen to this episode without hearing episode 152. * Many very wounded people are often deceived by Fantastical Foes. * Some trauma is culturally imposed, but other wounds are universal. * Result: real survivors can have their own empathy turned against them. * Survivors are also vulnerable to many sentimentalist appeals to emotion. * As we explored in episode 88, we’re no longer living in a “neutral world.” * To claim otherwise is to call into the Sentimentalism we explored before. * In a parallel Earth, we’d oppose racism or greed-ism infecting fiction. * We’re living in the real world, Earth-1, and this is the hand we’re dealt. * Even as fantastical fans, we believe Christians must reckon with reality. * We do feel it’s important for Christians to “gatekeep” Christian fiction. * We wouldn’t want any other harmful, anti-biblical beliefs in our stories. * This doesn’t mean “no struggling characters.” It means: no propaganda. * God says: “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil” (Isaiah 5:20). * If you disagree, we’d rather be honest, and part ways more amicably. * We’ll stake our rep on this: Sexualityism, not its critics, is harming people. * Real people are being deceived into destroying their own human nature. * If human nature is under attack, then so are human creations: stories.

Questions before discussion:1. What does Scripture’s insistence about “male and female” mean to us? 2. Given that our Creator told us to steward the world and make families … 3. If we minimize marriage and family, what’s our foundation for creativity? 4. Consider “toxic empathy”—is this possible? What would this look like? 5. Have you ever felt uncertain about a new sexual identity, but kept quiet? 6. What culturally popular ideas do you refuse to adopt, or spoken against? 7. Even if not now, could such religions persecute us? How could we know? 8. Do you believe parents and wise Christians must say “no” out of love? 9. How would you discern between a victim and a victim-turned-abuser?

What do we mean by ‘Sexualityism’?2. How does Sexualityism threaten Christians?3. How does Sexualityism threaten Christian fiction?Mission update* Watch Lorehaven.com for new menu changes going into spring 2023.
These upgrades will help you find great books for your family and you!
Ticia Messing’s article How to Disciple Your Kids With Dangerous Books.
This week, maybe that article about fighting popular franchise malaise.
Last week and this week, we’re focusing on great middle-grade books.
Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild.
This week’s new book quest explores Bradley Caffee’s book The Chase!

Com stationJames A. Koogler got real about ep. 155 on Sentimentalism:

Food for thought on the Thomas Kinkade Paintings, they might be helpful and challenging for Christians who seem to hate this world and think that it is all completely evil. Kinkade painted in a time when the “Earth/Material is bad, Heaven/Spirit is good” theology was more prevalent than the “New Earth” Theology, at least according to my knowledge, which may have led to his over-correction, which while extremely flawed, may help some to see that God’s goodness does still dwell in the world, though it is not yet fully renewed.

On Sentimentalism, the phrase “Toxic Empathy” really caught my attention. It’s a phrase I didn’t know I needed in my vocabulary until I heard it. I’ve seen this so much lately, the idea that just because I disagree with someone on their lifestyle or their theological or political beliefs that I can’t also love them and care about their well-being. “Toxic Empathy” attempts to take us emotionally hostage, forcing us to repent and relent our beliefs and convictions to appease someone else’s feelings. Until now, I have not had a phrase to describe this phenomenon. Thank you.

Another thing I’d like to add to the conversation on sentimentality is a more subtle form I’ve found in Christian Fiction, where the protagonist (even if non-Christian) is essentially sinless. I don’t know whether this is done for “clean” marketing purposes or unintentionally or what, but I know this has been harmful for me as a Christian. Even after my conversion/re-dedication I’ve struggled with habitual sin (I’m not surrendering to it, excusing it, etc. simply struggling), and I wonder why so many protagonists in Christian Fiction so often seem so naturally noble. Is that what reflects the majority of people (Christian or not?) Why don’t we see more characters in Christian Fiction struggling with a vice or the evil within themselves? Is it possible that these portrayals might force us to confront that we’re not only facing the monster outside but the one within?

My final thought, one of the biggest dangers of sentimentality is it makes a story and life seem so low stakes. Like, if the protagonist is defeated it’s okay because he’s saved and going to Heaven anyway. Yet, even if this may be true (in reality or fiction), his defeat will not be without consequence. He may be saved and go to Heaven, but what if him dying brings about the death of others who are not saved and go to Hell?

A recent Christian Novel I read that expertly portrayed high stakes is “DarkFall” by Andrews & Wilson. Though the final battle is between one Special Operator and a man possessed by a legion of demons, it’s not just the special operator whose life is on the line, several other peoples lives hang in the balance, and the battle isn’t just about survival, it’s about the faith of the world.

When we fall prey to sentimentalism, we make both stories and life low stakes, and devalue what God, humanity, and what Jesus did to bring us together.

Next on Fantastical TruthAfter all this talk about Fantastical Foes and their evil ways that lead to death, who’s ready for some new life and victory? We are! Thank God, we’re moving into Holy Week, helping us remember not only Jesus Christ’s perfect sacrifice, but his resurrection—the same resurrection he’s promised for all who receive him. Here we’ve explored Epic Resurrection before, but not with questions like: Do we get to fly? Could we “apparate” from place to place? Dive underwater for hours? Will we get superpowers after the Resurrection?

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Today’s next Fantastical Foe doesn’t look that villainous. Instead she dresses up as whimsical kittens, cozy cottages, or obvious heroes and villains. He will approach you with pleasant platitudes, from a church, or even from that smiling popular fantasy author. She will shine like an angel of light, telling your heart beautiful lies such as, “Everyone is basically good, and you only need to fight something else.” Beware this second Fantastical Foe: Sentimentalism.

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Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Enhanced by Candace Kade 2. Once Upon a Ren Faire by A. C. Castillo 3. Realm Makers 2023 conference

Concession stand* This episode isn’t so much about the “clean fiction” debate (episode 81). * Our focus is not on old sentimentalities, but modern sentimentalities. * We’ll not accuse Christian sentimentalists, but will make general allusions. * Some villains attack “sentimentality” because they hate virtue and goodness. * We don’t refer to healthy sentimentalism—a love for good things or memories.

Quotes and notes The Kinkade Crusade, Randall Balmer in Christianity Today*, Dec. 24, 2000 * Brandon Sanderson Is Your God, Jason Kehe at Wired.com, March 23, 2023 * Thomas Kinkade’s Cottage Fantasy, Joe Carter at First Things, June 16, 2010 * “The Bob Newhart Show,” YouTube clip: “Stop it!” * The Therapeutic, Ctd., Jake Meador at Mere Orthodoxy, March 22, 2023 * The Chosen Succeeds Where Woke Stories Fail, Jenneth Dyck at Lorehaven, Feb. 2, 2023 * Jon Acuff on “toxic empathy,” Jan. 17, 2023 tweet:

Toxic Empathy: When someone I love is headed toward a health, financial or relational train wreck and instead of telling them the bridge is out I encourage or even celebrate the decisions that are slowly destroying them because I want them to like me.

Old sentimentalism: People are mixed, church is good, world is mixed, Jesus is good (yet optional)* (Created by Zackary Russell using the Midjourney AI art generator)

This may be hard to define, so let’s start with a specific example. * Imagine a Thomas Kinkade painting about a cozy forest or cottage. * These images look nice, but if they ever bothered you, you’re not alone. * The late Thomas Kinkade himself said in 2000, according to Christianity Today:

“I love to create beautiful worlds where light dances and peace reigns. … I like to portray a world without the Fall.”

Kinkade, then, wants to show a world that’s basically good.
It’s a “elseworld” that never even had a Fall into sin in the past.
Older (stereotypical) Christian fiction often fell into this trap.
In one 2016 article, Stephen explored this old fiction sentimentality:

Not all Christian novels are this way. We need to stop pretending they are. But I have read some of them that are still like this: They are written by, published by, marketed to and sold to Christians, but are based entirely around the story of an imaginary non-believer.

The secular character serves as wish-fulfillment for some of our over-sheltered evangelical desires. He/she is convinced by soft-soap clichés, such as “just take a leap of faith.” Or the secular character hears a good-cop-Christian assurance like, “Yes, God really loves you,” and are led to sentimental tears, rather than confusion or eye-rolls. Such secular characters act as if they somehow already understood the Law, which would mean Grace comes as a relief to them. But of course, in such stories, the Law doesn’t even make a cameo.

New sentimentalism: People are good, church is bad, world is mixed, Jesus is good (yet still optional)* Now some creators react to this sentimentalism, thinking it unrealistic.
But they overcorrect into false religions that share similar premises.
You see this in some versions of Christianity, or spinoffs like Mormonism.
It’s behind lines like, Everyone is just looking for… or If only we could…
That’s new sentimentalism. Like the old kind, this denies human sin nature.
Like the Kinkade paintings, they want to paint a world with a weaker Fall.
Thus they show a world that doesn’t really need Jesus (even if He’s nice).
Our mission: Base reality and thus fantastical fiction in the gospel that rightly defines all these* People started good, yet are corrupted by idolatry, yet can be redeemed
Church is good, but can also be corrupted by idolatry, yet redeemed
The world is good, yet was corrupted by humans, yet can be redeemed
Jesus is not just good but nonoptional; He alone can redeem the others!

Lorehaven mission update Last week we hosted our booth at the Teach Them Diligently conference in Austin * Last week we reviewed Please Return to the Lands of Luxury * This Friday, March 31, we review Once Upon a Ren Faire* * Ticia Messing explores how parents can disciple kids with dangerous books * New Lorehaven writer A. D. Sheehan will offer solutions to media malaise * Lorehaven publisher E. Stephen Burnett joins two conferences in May

Com stationJJ Johnson shared his story in reply to ep. 153 about deconstructionism

In 2021 my wife began experiencing Church trauma & hurt at the church she worked on staff for 15 years- I became angry, bitter, & dangerously close to walking a road to deconstruction in 21 early 22. Seeing her hurt, my discernment was lacking & the philosophy felt attractive.

Deconstruction preys on the vulnerable, hurt, and promises much but lacks fulfillment. Deconstruction doesn’t develop your faith, it destroys it, and much like John 10:10 says it will “Steal, kill, and destroy…”

2 Peter 1:3 informs us of what we need. We need Christ Himself. My wife & I kept everything off social media during that time, only speaking to close friends who loved and provided the prayer & council we needed.

If you are struggling, hurting, or find yourself facing bitterness from trauma know that I understand. Deconstruction is not the answer. This is a highly recommended episode.

Next on Fantastical Truth“We come to it at last: the great battle of our time.” What might be the fastest-growing religion in the world? Based on personal experience, some would say atheism, Islam, or bad versions of Christianity. Yet the world’s fastest-growing religion may be one we call Sexualityism. This refers to strong belief in one’s own sexual identity often leading to false worship. One guest who’s experienced with these beliefs, and taken some heat for this, joins us to enjoin this foe. How might this belief threaten not just biblical Christianity, but even some fantastical stories made by Christian creators?

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What if you had to survive in a futuristic East Asian world, ruled by a social credit system, by pretending you were genetically altered? Let’s break from our ongoing series about present-day Fantastical Foes. Instead we’ll jump into the sci-fi cyberpunk world of Enhanced, Candace Kade’s newly released novel. Today, she rides into the studios to share her own social credit points!

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Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Enhanced by Candace Kade 2. Once Upon a Ren Faire by A. C. Castillo 3. Realm Makers 2023 conference

Introducing author Candace Kade

Candace is a recovering over-achiever who spends her time dreaming up stories typically involving tech, psychology, culture, and/or swords. She’s a certified Krav Maga assistant instructor and loves writing action-packed martial art scenes. A third culture kid, she considers Chengdu and Austin to be her homes. When she’s not exploring new countries, she enjoys hiking in national parks, moving, teaching her husband Mandarin, and keeping a baby human alive. She can be bribed with boba tea, fluffy puppies, and breakfast tacos.

CandaceKade.com
Candace Kade on Instagram
How did China change your life and creativity?2. Will people benefit or suffer from genetic editing?3. Should we fear cyperpunk social credit systems?Com stationOne hero of the Guild said of episode 152 about church trauma:

Yikes, do you guys have my whole life bugged! Wow, may have to listen to this one again. Great discussion. Thanks for sharing.

Another listener wasn’t a fan of ep. 153 about deconstructionism:

I’ve read Jesus and John Wayne and I believe Michael is entirely incorrect on his assessment about the book and deconstructionism in general.

There are no professional deconstructors. There’s no leftist agenda in Dr. DeMuse book, unless the message that “power and influence corrupt and having super megachurch pastors be held up as leaders in evangelical circles was a terrible idea” doesn’t translate for you.

I thought this was a podcast about storytellers, not a political punditry soapbox.

The same listener also left related comments on social media
Most focused on this particular book, barely mentioned in the episode
You can read Stephen’s response here (posted in reply at the episode before 153)

Next on Fantastical TruthOur next Fantastical Foe doesn’t look that villainous. Instead she dresses up as whimsical kittens, cozy cottages, or “easily” spied good guys and bad guys. He will approach you in pleasant platitudes, from a church, or even from that smiling popular fantasy author. Shining like an angel of light, she will give you beautiful lies such as, “Everyone is basically good, and you only need to fear the System of obvious villains… like The Powerful. Or doctrine. Or that bad Church Back Home.” Should we follow these messiahs from the deserts of social media? Beware this second Fantastical Foe: Sentimentalism.

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If a church or group of Christians hurt you, that is part of your origin story.[1. Photo by Karl Fredrickson on Unsplash.] True heroes, on their journey to victory, often face many temptations to the dark side. One of those temptations is to a fantastical foe we’re calling deconstructionism. Everyone needs to test your faith. And if the church back home had rotten construction, you may need some remodeling. How can we show sympathy to victims who need to tear out bad structures, while refusing to let professional demolition crews reduce the gospel itself to ruin? Michael Young, known on the Twitterverse as “Wokal Distance,” shares wisdom from outside the Christian-fantastical community about Fantastical Foe number one: deconstructionism.

Subscribe to Lorehavenarticles • news • library • reviews • podcast • gifts • guild

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Enhanced by Candace Kade 2. Once Upon a Ren Faire by A. C. Castillo 3. Realm Makers 2023 conference

Concession stand* We’ll be talking about some hot topics, but as usual we stay focused on ideas, not politicians or policies. * Our focus is especially on the intersection of ideas and fiction. * And more than pointing out bad ideas in stories, we want to highlight excellent storytelling that truly glorifies God. * STEPHEN: Here’s how we define the phrase “Christian fiction.” * That’s important for our guest and other newcomers to understand.

Introducing Michael Young aka ‘Wokal Distance’Michael Young, known on Twitter as “Wokal Distance,” teaches about the roots of wokeness. He decodes, deciphers, and explains the postmodern world in a way which is accessible to the average person. For those who feel the breaking apart of the social world, he helps them find their bearings. Follow him on Twitter @‌Wokal_Distance.

Quotes and notes* Welcome to the postmodern world * The faith struggles of young people today * Jesus and John Wayne Among the Deplorables * Conservative storytelling aesthetic (segment from Benjamin Boyce podcast)

What is postmodern deconstruction?2. How is deconstruction laundered through stories?3. How can we fight deconstruction with meaningful stories?Com stationOne hero of the Guild said of episode 152 about church trauma:

Yikes, do you guys have my whole life bugged! Wow, may have to listen to this one again. Great discussion. Thanks for sharing

Lorehaven mission update* Enclave, Lorehaven, Fayette Join Forces for Austin Homeschool Conference

Next on Fantastical Truth

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The time has come to explore the wild lands. From legalism to worse attacks on God’s image in us, many Christian fantastical fiction fans have suffered what can only be described as church trauma. How can we show Christ’s love to these enemies while more importantly healing from these attacks that may come from relatives, the church back home, or other bullies who might slander us because of our faith or even because of the fantastical stories we enjoy? Today we begin our new four-part series: Fantastical Foes.

Subscribe to Lorehavenarticles • news • library • reviews • podcast • gifts • guild

Episode sponsors1. Enclave Publishing: Enhanced by Candace Kade 2. Once Upon a Ren Faire by A. C. Castillo 3. Realm Makers 2023 conference

Reintroducing author Marian Jacobs

Marian Jacobs writes about Jesus, monsters, and spaceships. Her work has featured at Desiring God as well as Stage and Story, and she has written many articles for Lorehaven.

MAJacobs.com

follow @MAJacobsWrites on Instagram

recent article: Christian Critics of ‘Purity Culture’ Are Still Influenced By Its Fantasies

Reintroducing author L. G. McCary

L. G. McCary, author of That Pale Host, writes supernatural and dark science fiction on many diverse topics. She has written articles and coordinates social media for Lorehaven.

LGMcCary.com

Lorehaven’s review of That Pale Host

follow @LorehavenMag on Instagram

Concession stand This topic may seem really general, but applies to Christian fantasy fans. * Many fantasy fans have unique tastes or see the world in unique ways. * Fantastical stories can also provide a sense of escape from real pain. * We want to share empathy, but also warn against some real hazards. * Episode 112 explores fiction examples about loving/fighting enemies. * Episode 120 explore how Christians enjoy biblical freedom in fiction. * This whole episode is like a concession stand before more of this series. * In our Fantastical Foes series, we explore top threats to Christian fantasy: 1. Deconstructionism 2. Sentimentalism 3. Sexualityism*

1. What do we mean by church trauma?2. When might we respond in harmful ways?3. How can we respond in healing ways?Mission update Subscribe free to Lorehaven for all updates * Soon we’ll announce more about spring events * Read our new review of Charles’s Williams’s classic War in Heaven* * Join our Book Quest, starting this week, only in the Lorehaven Guild * Stephen has restarted his personal site under the Lorehaven Authorship * Follow Lorehaven.com for more updates about that upcoming project

Com stationJ. J. Griffing remarked on that War in Heaven review:

Along with “There once was a boy named Eustace Clarence Scrubb, and he almost deserved it,” (Voyage of the Dawn Treader, by C. S. Lewis) and “The building was on fire, but it wasn’t my fault,” (Summer Knight, I think, by Jim Butcher), Charles Williams’ opening line in War in Heaven is among literature’s best.

“The telephone was ringing frantically, but nobody was there to answer it but the corpse.” Or something like that. Sure beats “It is a truth universally acknowledged, …” by Jane Austin (P&P) or Lewis’ own “Marriage was ordained, thirdly, …” in [That Hideous Strength].

Next on Fantastical TruthIf a church or group of Christians hurt you, that is part of your origin story. True heroes, on their journey to victory, often face many temptations to the dark side. One of those temptations is to a fantastical foe we’re calling deconstructionism. Everyone needs to test your faith. And if the church back home had rotten construction, you may need some remodeling. How can we do this, showing sympathy to ourselves and other victims who need to tear out bad structures, while refusing to let professional demolition crews destroy the gospel? Let’s explore a first Fantastical Foe: deconstructionism.

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What if you were stuck in a burdensome power armor and had to flee from the wrath to come? If this sounds familiar, it’s because you know the classic story of Pilgrim’s Progress. But this version has giant mechs. Plus robots, space marines, and talking platypuses. John Bunyan didn’t write those parts, but author David Umstattd did. Today he stomps into the studio to share his narrative podcast and forthcoming novel The Pilgrim’s Progress Reloaded.

Subscribe to Lorehavenarticles • news • library • reviews • podcast • gifts • guild

Episode sponsors1. Bear Knight by James R. Hannibal 2. The Dragon Slayer Chronicles by Carey Green 3. Realm Makers 2023 conference

Introducing guest David Umstattd

David Umstattd was called to be a writer in 2006. He graduated from Baylor University in 2013 and is the author of Pilgrim’s Progress: Reloaded. He lives in North Austin where his family has lived for seven generations.

DavidUmstattd.com
Pilgrim’s Progress Reloaded on Spotify
Pilgrim’s Progress Reloaded on Apple Podcasts

Concession stand* We make niche references to things like first-person shooter games, anime. * You may find yourself and your evangelical culture lightly roasted. * But the whole point of allegory is to explore ideas, not people.

What are the pitfalls of vague theology?2. How does allegory work?3. How does satire help us sharpen our minds?Lorehaven mission update* Listen to last week’s podcast episode 150with James R. Hannibal.
Read last week’s Friday book review of Bear Knight.
Subscribe for Lorehaven Guild access and any Lorehaven updates you so desire.
We’ve also announced our next book quest for Charles Williams’s War in Heaven.

Com station* David Mock sent an audio response to episode 149 about fictional romance

Next on Fantastical TruthNext month, we plan to explore some perilous territory, starting with one challenge afflicting many Christian fantastical fans. From legalism to worse attacks on God’s image in us, many Christians have suffered what can only be described as church trauma. How can we show Christ’s love to churches that have hurt us while, more importantly, healing from these attacks that may come from relatives, the church back home, or other bullies who might slander us because of our faith or even because of the fantastical stories we enjoy? Today we begin our new four-part serious series: Fantastical Foes.

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Even when investigators seem to solve aerial mysteries, we can't help suspecting more secrets about enemy ships or alien secrets.

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Our hosts enjoy sweet concessions and ask why many Christian-made novels, including fantasy, celebrate Valentine’s Day every day.

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Critics of biblical fiction forget our need for Christian imagination, not only to preach sermons but also to worship Jesus with public creativity.

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Sir Robert Treskillard joins our studio roundtable to share his medieval fantasy Merlin's Spiral series.

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CG artist Keith Lango takes us behind the studio scenes to explore how artists and animators brought Andrew Peterson’s fantasy to life.

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One British poet's 1590s allegorical fantasy adventure is getting a new text-faithful prose adaptation.

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Amazon, Disney, Netflix, and Warner Bros. seem to be dividing several fiction franchises, for several reasons Christians fans should discern.

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We start our new season of Fantastical Truth by reviewing our top ten articles, news, and pages at Lorehaven.com last year.

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Stephen and Zack reminisce about their favorite Christmas gifts of “tools, not toys” that helped them seek their fantastical missions.

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“Rilian” of NarniaWeb returns to share frustration and appreciation for Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit series, whose first film debuted ten years ago.

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Sing along with us and debate when to enjoy your Christmas music, including your favorite seasonal songs and the worst tunes you've ever heard.

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Bradley Caffee, author of The Chase, The Change, and The Choice, dashes into our studio to lead the young-adult resistance.

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In the Children of the Consortium series, one woman's broken nanotech implant helps her rediscover human connection.

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We live in a society shaped by two dystopian fictions—Aldous Huxley's hedonistic fake-utopia versus George Orwell's authoritarian Big Brother.

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We live in a society shaped by two dystopian fictions—Aldous Huxley's hedonistic fake-utopia versus George Orwell's authoritarian Big Brother.

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Christians invest a lot into political persuasion, possibly neglecting stories' power to change human hearts.

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Christians invest a lot into political persuasion, possibly neglecting stories' power to change human hearts.

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Join us for this giant controversy about these "monsters," who make such a quick cameo in Genesis 6 but get a starring role in many Christian speculations.

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That twist ending is true—mad scientists are the real monsters, abusing their power, creations, and human lives because they want to become like God.

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This year, over 200,000 Dracula Daily readers have rediscovered Bram Stoker’s original classic novel, cheering its earnestly good heroes who fight predators with the power of Christ.

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Horror can host ungodly creatures and themes that glorify darkness, not God, but the best horror helps us flee to the light and power of Christ.

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Horror can host ungodly creatures and themes that glorify darkness, not God, but the best horror helps us flee to the light and power of Christ.

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In Morgan L. Busse's new Skyworld duology, the Mist is rising and threatening to turn humans into steampunk zombies.

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In Morgan L. Busse's new Skyworld duology, the Mist is rising and threatening to turn humans into steampunk zombies.

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Listen to classic and new fantastical audio adventures while watching for a Sky Turtle with Oasis Family Media president Steve Smith, our next guest in the Steve Saga.

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Join agent/publisher Steve Laube to explore how and why Enclave Publishing shares award-winning Christian fantastical fiction.

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Steve Rzasa leads a public library, creates dozens of fantastical novels, and now arrives as our first guest in the Steve Saga.

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When Christian fans aim to fight about fandom and imagination, let's look to Jesus and to mutual cautions about respect, morality, and celebrating our stories with purpose.

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When Christian fans aim to fight about fandom and imagination, let's look to Jesus and to mutual cautions about respect, morality, and celebrating our stories with purpose.

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Say Goodnight Kevin's snarky reviewer helps us stay honest about cringey Christian culture while also being gracious to Christ's people.

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Christians often sound negative about popular culture, but some secular critics seemed to forget that God made humans to gather in public and celebrate stories.

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Christian-made novels best serve non-Christian readers by showing realistic worlds instead of sentimental heroes or morality.

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Stephen just returned from the Realm Makers conference, and shares with Zack all about the event, Lorehaven's booth, and Realm Award winners.

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Christians may have a different take on fans who must grieve corrupted stories and learn to love again.

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Scripture says everyone on Earth will see Jesus Christ's glorious appearing, which could make a confusing future for people not living on Earth.

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Christian fans are called to freedom, but we should use this gift to serve others, not as opportunity to sin.

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While government leaders debate laws about human life, some U.S. leaders and military pilots wonder if they've seen extraterrestrial ships.

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Big news dropped June 24, inspiring us to rejoice in stories about the wonders of human life, pre-born and beyond.

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Create your personal library to glorify Jesus, preserve great books, showcase God's creative gifts, and grant a legacy to your friends today and children tomorrow.

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Speaker, teacher, and homeschool graduate Ethan Nunn helps us explore why families flock to Christian fantastical authors at homeschool events.

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For centuries Christians have confessed their faith as individuals, churches, and other groups, so here's what we believe at Lorehaven.

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Daniel Friend joins us to explore how experimental memory technology might abolish man.

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From absent hairbrushes, to kitchen-based boy bands, to Merle and Pearl Squirrel freshly thawed from the first century, Mike Nawrocki shares his stories.

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Luke Skywalker vs. Darth Vader. Spider-Man vs. Venom. Superman vs. General Zod. Each tries to save his people and also his enemy, but with different results.

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Some children or teens have the strange superpower of speed-reading books, which can include many idols but also graces.

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Zack believes more readers will soon clamor for Christian-made fantastical novels, while Stephen thinks this optimism might be premature.

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Christians learn through stories and music, so if churches already have music pastors, perhaps we could add "story pastors" to help us cultivate, shepherd, and create great fiction.

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He is risen! Christians celebrate the truth of Christ's victory over death, yet often miss the implications for our own promised resurrection.

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Now that Disney producers are promising to add more false religion into their shows, this controversy may be animating new Christian creatives.

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We just hosted our Lorehaven booth at the Teach Them Diligently conference in Texas, where kids and their parents love Christian fantastical fiction.

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Daniel Schwabauer joins us to explore this new heroine's legal defense of planet Earth.

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Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles? Rediscover the complex allegories of John Bunyan's classic adventure.

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Great stories might help us best discern Christian debates, training our hearts so we can focus on engaging ideas, not attacking individuals.

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From UFOs to biblical imagination, to dragons versus televangelists, we’ll explore the big ideas our listeners have loved the most, and catch up with updates to our first 100 shows.

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Despite fan frustrations with "woke" stories, Christians can still engage popular culture while discerning our own callings and the world's idols.

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This Christian-made audio drama series explores fantastical themes in a small town with big personalities, delighting generations of fans since 1987.

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Longing looks and steamy smooches in stories might reflect God's gift of romantic love, yet provoke many readers into serious temptation.

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Christian creators should simply (insert ideal here) to impress general market gatekeepers, right? Not so fast. Sometimes secular publishers actually dislike Christians.

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S. D. Smith brings us into his popular Green Ember fantasy world of tiny creatures who find big adventure.

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We may treat winning authors like angels and failing authors like devils, when we need to see them as Christ sees them: flawed human beings.

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Zack and returning guest Shane Morris explore how Christians best respond when secular showrunners corrupt a story's canon and break fans’ hearts.

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Stephen and Zack explore which Lorehaven stories made the biggest impact on you, and catch up with several story updates.

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Fantastical Truth from Lorehaven has begun season 3, featuring another recorded livestream joined by James R. Hannibal and Marian Jacobs.

The Tethered World (The Tethered World Chronicles Book 1)

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Twenty years after The Fellowship of the Ring released in theaters, NarniaWeb's good prince Rilian helps us recall how Christians love exploring Peter Jackson’s one film trilogy to rule them all.

Heaven Came Down (The Oculus Gate Book 1)

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Gillian Bronte Adams rides to meet Fantastical Truth, exploring her Fireborn Epic's fantasy world with its elemental horses and fantastic themes.

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Twenty years after the first Harry Potter film premiered in theaters, Christians might bypass brick walls and find positive magical education at Hogwarts School.

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Three storytellers wield faith over fear to battle YA fantasy fiends, in this special encore feature of a Realm Makers livestream event.

A Choice of Blades: The Blade Remnant, Book One

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The world has changed. We feel it in the earth. We smell it in the air. It's no longer positive or neutral, but negative toward Christianity.

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New fandoms can bring us into exciting desert frontiers, yet also bristle with dangers slithering below the sands.

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Halloween can promote good gifts like fall and fandom, yet its decor can also make light of serious death, suffering, or dark magic.

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James R. Hannibal rests from military spycraft and dragon-slaying to explore fantastic worlds, Scripture memory, and Christlike figures in fiction.

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Christianity Today news editor Daniel Silliman explores why fans loved top Christian fiction, including This Present Darkness, Left Behind, and The Shack.

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Some authors brag they want to "wreck you, the reader," yet Christ promises a happy end that redeems all our harms.

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That Pale Host ushers us into familiar haunted spaces: personal conflict, trauma versus responsibility, and mental health for Christ's people.

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"Clean fiction" may leave out nasty elements about sex and self-worship, but poses other risks for Christians.

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Our world's final end-times trials could include a literal tribulation, Antichrist, even a rapture—and possibly also UFO deceptions.

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When terrorists attacked and towers fell, how did Christians engage with nonfiction books and fantastical tales?

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Dust and Shadow author Kara Swanson shares the happy thoughts and nobledark struggles behind her Peter Pan retelling.

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Before we speak of our writing, discerning, cleaning, or using fiction, we must know our assignment: to glorify God and enjoy him forever.

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Christians must address romance fiction's tragic backstories when we respond to cancel campaigns with gospel grace and conviction.

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We deconstruct faith and suffering in Lani Forbes's Mesoamerican fantasy novel The Seventh Sun, winner of three Realm Awards.

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We're joined by Tim Chaffey of Answers in Genesis, one of the creative architects who helped build the Ark Encounter.

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Colin Samul joins us to explore the Pentagon's June report, which could not explain over 140 aerial encounters with strange objects.

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God calls his people to comfort the afflicted, but also gave us his ancient command to explore the Earth and beyond.

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At Realm Makers, we shared story joys with executive director Scott Minor, The Seventh Sun author Lani Forbes, and other fantastic creators.

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Suspense and fantasy novelist James R. Hannibal joins us to explore this true story of dice-rolling, discipleship, death, and rebirth.

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Realistic backsliders recover faith not by shallow isolated sentiment, but by serious biblical restoration to Christ's people.

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Stories can help readers explore the past in new ways, often showing how history points to ultimate happy endings.

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Christian-made stories should not preach from on high at readers beyond the "fourth wall," but should help disciple our imaginations in Christ.

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Author Sharon Hinck joins us to explore grace versus legalism in her recently concluded fantasy trilogy, The Dancing Realms series.

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At the traveling Realm Makers Bookstore, homeschool families love to find Christian-made fantastical fiction. What can they teach us?

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Viruses, masks, and vaccines act out a parable for sin, the law, and grace, so let's not confuse secular symbols for religious realities.

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If God created life on other planets, would Scripture support these creatures being sentient, good, evil, or in need of redemption?

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How can Christian fans avoid shuffling along with subculture herds, even while we share the Christian-made stories we enjoy?

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Christian-made sci-fi tends toward the softer side, leaving an opening for more complex futuristic tales that engage with controversial themes.

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Why do our scientists get so preoccupied with whether or not they could that they don't stop to hear secular fiction's dire forecasts?

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When stories lose the plot and just want to give you a religious lecture, should Christians get mad or else gently scoff in amusement?

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Sci-fi novelist Kerry Nietz and Lorehaven review chief Austin Gunderson join our heroic team to explore the long-awaited super-film Zack Snyder's Justice League.

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We explore how the Gospel and similar reflections in fantastic stories help us prepare for times of suffering, death, and resurrection.

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Physical combat is often the defining feature of strength, but female characters needn’t be boxed into stereotypes to be considered strong.

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Christians fleeing cancel culture should consider becoming “Amish cyberpunks” and build cutting-edge digital enclaves.

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How can Christians react to possibly necessary "cancellations" of badly behaving fantasy creators?

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Can you avoid "cancel culture" by apologizing? How can Christian fans respond to "cancellations" and enjoy stories from fallen creators?

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Christians need science fiction to fulfill the Cultural Mandate, build bridges with our neighbors, and anticipate a future world of sci-fi wonders.

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Christians need fantastical imagination to believe in God and the gospel, train to be like Jesus, and engage our world and neighbors.

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Fiction isn't just optional for Christian readers, but a God-given gift we actually need to grow as redeemed people.

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We can't expect "chosen one" authors to save Christian-made fiction overnight, so instead, let's slowly transform our "deserts" into habitable kingdoms.

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From little space babies eating tadpoles, to that Jesus TV show, to not-quite-forgotten trends, we're exploring 2020's top issues at Lorehaven.com.

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What rumors of UFOs spread throughout 2020, and why can't people look away from these alien accounts?

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This month brings release anniversaries for two Narnia movies. The first roared, but the last sank hard. How did this fantasy franchise fizzle?

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Explore the creation and truths of R. J. Anderson’s Flight and Flame fantasy trilogy, in which a tiny heroine finds big adventure.

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Many well-meaning Christians see Santa as a pretender to Christ's throne rather than a worshiper before Him. How do faithful fans respond?

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Just in time for the Christmas season, we explore a 1980s evangelical book that warned about fantasy franchises such as "He-Man" and Cabbage Patch Kids.

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Fantastical Truth explores the 2020 Realm Award–winning Arctic fantasy novel Seventh City with author Emily Hayse.

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What could Christian boycotts of streaming services or holidays change in our culture or in ourselves?

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Our political beliefs and fears are not always based on facts. Experiences and hidden pictures shape how we debate and vote.

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Welcome to our house. Enter freely, and explore the biblical virtues of using common and sacred weapons to fight vampires.

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Idolatrous occult magic isn't usually the same as fictional magic, but how can Christian fans love people who think they're the same?

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Christian fans must carefully compare fictional magic with the Bible's warnings against occult idolatry.

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Paranormal images like ghosts and other creatures have risks, but also help awaken our imaginations to the spiritual worlds around us.

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Did C. S. Lewis set the example of enjoying only images to create stories, without wanting to "say something about Christianity to children"?

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We're fighting to continue book enjoyments during the pandemic, and we share how Lorehaven has fared In These Uncertain Times™.

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Christian Youth Theater's Julie Novak joins us to share what's it like to bring fantastical figures to life onstage.

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These five questions from The Pop Culture Parent can help us engage our messy popular culture, and teach our kids to do the same.

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Christians debate whether popular culture is mostly good or bad. But what is the point of popular culture in God's universe anyway?

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Babylon Bee senior writer Frank J. Fleming joins today's episode to explore satire, politics, and his own comedic sci-fi.

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Novelist Shawn Smucker joins us to explore memories and mystic challenges at life's margins.

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Christians must think differently not only about popular streaming series "The Chosen" but about biblical fiction as a genre.

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Bill Myers shares his incredible worlds of Wally McDoogle, McGee and Me, and many other stories for kids and adults.

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Did C. S. Lewis doom Susan, bring Emeth to heaven, fill Narnia with allegories, or make it a "safe" series? We explore these four myths.

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We just returned from the Realm Makers conference with new award-winners and breaking news about next year's event.

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Do the Chronicles of Narnia show random myths? Are they just children's stories? Should we only sort them by chronological order?

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Stephen and Zack invite The Weaver Trilogy author Lindsay A. Franklin to explore her fantasy series about Tanwen, the girl who literally weaves stories.

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Zack and Stephen explore UFO sightings, alien beliefs, and how Christians can respond to the notions of sentient life beyond our planet.

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Stephen and Zack are joined by W. A. Fulkerson, whose novel For Whom the Sun Sings just released this spring.

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Preview chapter 8 of Amish Zombies from Space, the audiobook, written by Kerry Nietz and read by Randy Streu.

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In this special panel courtesy of Realm Makers, you can listen to fantasy novelists wrestle with challenging content in fiction.

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Chase Replogle joins us to explore how Scripture rarely presents its heroic figures as true role models.

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We explore the #ReleaseTheSnyderCut movement's big victory, challenge super-film expectations, and engage the controversies.

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"The earth is healing; we are the virus." Under this slogan lies this suspicion that something is wrong with us and we don't belong here.

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Our conversation continues with author R. S. Ingermanson, whose new series time-travels to the world of first-century Israel.

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Randy Ingermanson joins us to explore his foray into sci-fi with his 2001 novel Oxygen.

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Will the idea of stories and books last into the eternity ruled by King Jesus—and what about the stories we love now?

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We continue our Epic Resurrection series, anticipating Jesus's renewal of planet Earth and all of his material creation.

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After the resurrection that Jesus promised his people, will we fly? Have superpowers? Become something other than fully human?

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Come aboard the good ship Fantastical Truth for our first interview with space opera novelist Kathy Tyers.

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How have stories shaped the desires and beliefs of "ex-Christians," and how can better stories help build our faith?

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Lorehaven review chief Austin Gunderson joins us to explore Frank E. Peretti's 1986 spiritual warfare thriller "This Present Darkness."

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Pandemic stories, such as Tosca Lee's 2019 novel The Line Between, can help Christians prepare our imaginations for these trials.

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Novelist and nonfiction author Brian Godawa joins our team to explore the epic theme of imagination in light of Scripture.

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This time it's personal: Fantastical Truth shares some of your stories about how you first discovered amazing fiction.

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Remember the first fantastical story you read? We'd love to consider featuring your memory on our next podcast episode.

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OpusZine writer Jason Morehead helps us engage a sensitive topic: the challenges and exploitation of "mature" streaming fantasy dramas.

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We survey seven debates Christian fans followed in 2019, from female heroes, to fictional magic, to "cancel culture" versus young-adult novels.

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Sharon Hinck's novel Hidden Current glides into a fantastic island world, where powerful people have twisted God's creative gifts.

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Let's explore a big debate: Should we look for the "Christian label” on Christian-made novels, movies, music and other creations?

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We explore Patrick W. Carr's novel The End of the Magi, which follows the guiding star of Scripture while speculating on the Bible's mysteries.

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From the creators of Lorehaven magazine comes this podcast for Christian readers of fantasy, science fiction, and beyond.

Fantastical Truth: Recent Episodes

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