A positive way to transform our culture is to use our creative gifts
A 2022 survey by the Trafalgar Group revealed that over 76% of Americans believe our society is in a state of decay. We see it in rising crime, corruption, and the celebration of vulgarity over virtue. The very definitions of goodness, beauty, and truth are being distorted before our eyes. It’s easy to feel discouraged—like a dark cloud has settled over our collective spirit. Recent events have only amplified the darkness of our culture.
But despair isn’t the answer. Creation is.
Christ and Culture: A Transformative Vision
Twentieth-century theologian Richard Niebuhr, in his seminal work Christ & Culture, outlined four ways Christ interacts with culture:
- Against the culture—resisting its corruption
- Of the culture—accommodating its values
- Above the culture—retreating from its influence
- Transforming the culture—engaging it with redemptive power
It’s this fourth vision—Christ transforming culture—that offers hope and purpose. In Matthew 5, Jesus calls his followers to be “salt and light,” preserving and illuminating God’s truth in a dark world. That calling includes using our creative gifts to reflect His glory.
Creativity: A Divine Calling
Creativity isn’t just a talent—it’s a reflection of the Creator Himself. Francis Schaeffer once said, “Art is a reflection of God’s creativity, an evidence that we are made in the image of God.” Julia Cameron echoes this truth: “Creativity is God’s gift to us. Using our creativity is our gift back to God.”
God, the master Creator, has planted seeds of creativity in each of us. Whether through music, writing, film, or visual art, we are invited to produce works that shine with goodness, beauty, and truth.
Culture-Changing Creators
We’ve seen how Christian creatives have already begun transforming culture:
- Music: Artists like Chris Tomlin, Phil Wickham, Amy Grant, Matt Maher, and Matt Redman have reached millions with songs that stir the soul and glorify God.
- Television: Angel Studios’ The Chosen has been viewed over 405 million times, bringing the story of Jesus to life in fresh, compelling ways.
- Film: Sound of Freedom and Jesus Revolution have grossed over $250 million and $54 million respectively, proving that faith-filled stories resonate deeply.
- Books: Authors like Ted Dekker and Francine Rivers have sold millions of Christian fiction novels, weaving spiritual truth into gripping narratives.
- Video Games: Even the gaming world has carved out space for Christian-themed content, offering immersive experiences that reflect biblical values.
These creators are exceptional—but you don’t need to be famous to make an impact. In today’s digital age, anyone can share their creative work with the world. Every Christian who engages in the arts—whether professionally or as a hobbyist—helps shape a culture that reflects God’s glory.
Your Invitation to Create
So here’s my invitation to you: Write a story or poem. Record a song. Create a video. Draw a picture. Share it with your family. Share it with the world. Use your gifts to illuminate the goodness, beauty, and truth of God.
And here’s Jesus’ invitation:
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” —Matthew 5:16
A Story Where Light Battles Darkness
If you’re looking for a powerful story to inspire young readers, check out Kingdom in Peril, a two-book fantasy adventure for ages 10 to 13. It follows Aaron and Nia as they step through a portal into a mysterious kingdom teetering on the edge of destruction. With encrypted clues as their guide and a maniac on their trail, they have just six days to complete a royal quest. Along the way, friendship is tested, faith is awakened, and courage is forged in the fire of adversity.
Kingdom in Peril is more than a thrilling race against time—it’s a celebration of light in the face of darkness, and a reminder that even young hearts can rise to meet the call of a higher purpose.
Let’s create. Let’s transform. Let’s shine.