Christian Science Fiction

Everlasting · Mar 29, 2007

Within the next few months I will become a published author. While pondering the question of the universe, man's existence, technology, global warming, and development; I took the Faith vs. Science road. Along my journey I understood that:
"They are one in the same".

As we try and fail to keep up with the universe, we are reminded that the creator is infinate.

How do we try to keep up with the creator? : Science.

Man has made great strides in attempting to match God's will and keep up with the universe.

Then what is taking the next step? Utilizing existing technology and expanding infrastructure.

My book takes a look at possibilities. What do you do if you have five months of existence left on earth? Will you be ready to defend your planet from an apocalyptic disaster? Those are the questions of the future. Which deem the final question: Who will have the last word Man or the Universe?

Everlasting
New Inspirational/Spiritual Science Fiction Novel
Moon Over Key Biscayne
booksandmore.4t.com

poetinahat · Mar 29, 2007

Everlasting, you've already posted your announcement elsewhere. Good luck to you and your book, but one announcement only, please.

Everlasting · Mar 29, 2007

Many writer's are looking for new ideas and unique concepts.
Christian Science Fiction is a new and exciting genre. I would
love to see if anyone else has this type of interest. My book
incorporates bible concepts, applys them to life today, and
covers environmental issues that affect us all.

Would you like to discuss Christian Science Fiction further?

Everlasting

Festus · Mar 29, 2007

The last word? GOD!

The concept you espouse is interesting and should make a good work. Look forward to seeing it!!

Insofar as Christian Science Fiction.......heck Fiction is fiction in all genre's, I see no problems with it at all!

Peggy · Mar 29, 2007

My book takes a look at possibilities. What do you do if you have five months of existence left on earth? Will you be ready to defend your planet from an apocalyptic disaster? Those are the questions of the future. Which deem the final question: Who will have the last word Man or the Universe?

OK, Everlasting, I'll bite. In what way is your novel Christian? Is the impending apocalypse due to "Man" trying to usurp the position of God through "science"?

Everlasting · Apr 1, 2007

Technology

In recent news you will find that global warming if affecting other planets.

SPACE.com -- Global Warming on Pluto Puzzles ScientistsPluto's
atmospheric pressure has tripled over the past 14 years,
indicating a stark temperature rise, the researchers said.

Mars Melt Hints at Solar, Not Human, Cause for Warming,
Scientist SaysSimultaneous warming on Earth and Mars
suggests that our planet's recent ... that the current
global warming on Earth is being caused by changes in the sun.

Sun Responsible for Global WarmingTwo new reports cast
doubt on the manmade global warming theory and instead point
to another cause for the recent warming of Earth changes in the sun.

Cause for Global Warming/Hole in Ozone LayerIncreasing
the amount of C02 in the atmosphere will increase the amount
of reflected energy capture and lead to a temperature increase.

We use science to interpret these findings. It is my belief that
God and Science are infinately connected. Man's evolution is a product
of knowledge and understanding, obtained from all sources; even
outer space. The bible is filled with prohecy and information that
shapes our world today. How and why does new technology become
utilized? Generally to adapt to our environment. Most scholars use
God and the bible to find answers to the un-answered questions in
the universe. A Christian viewpoint is generally used to explain, or
refute; any aspect of our character.

Due diligence in work, can lead to utilization for a good purpose.
Evolution=Development=Understanding.

My book looks at technology; and the characters expand their findings
to to help avert a world ending disaster.

With all of the modern luxuries that we have, we tend to forget
how life would be without them, and usually take them for granted.

A book that asks the question: Are we are ready for the future?
And a true testiment to our call and response; to the universe.

Everlasting
Inspirational/Spiritual Science Fiction Novel
Moon Over Key Biscayne
booksandmore.4t.com

Roger J Carlson · Apr 2, 2007

Okay, that covers the SF part. In what way is it Christian?

James D. Macdonald · Apr 2, 2007

I'm going to go way out on a limb and guess here: PublishAmerica, right?

Everlasting · Apr 2, 2007

Moon Over Key Biscayne

I find my inspiration through the scriptures. They are used
to bind the story plot together. This; along with the recognition of
God's influence and religion in the characters conscience and lives.

Adapting to our world, is the only alternative. We do it everyday, and
take it for granted. You have heat in your home, by technology:
Without it you would not survive.

Just another way to adapt to our environment.

The book is not yet available. I am in cover design. I think my
released date should be somewhere within 1-1 1/2 months.
It should be available through many of the online book stores
as well.

Everlasting
Bible Inspired Author
Moon Over Key Biscayne
booksandmore.4t.com

:LilLove:

Peggy · Apr 4, 2007

Everlasting said:
I find my inspiration through the scriptures. They are used to bind the story plot together. This; along with the recognition of God's influence and religion in the characters conscience and lives.

I guess I'm still not seeing this as necessarily explicitly Christian. While I think religion tends to be underexplored in science fiction, there are authors who have used it to drive the plot - I'm thinking of Herbert's Dune books, for example - but aren't really Christian. There are also science fiction writers who have written from the Christian point of view, such as Cordwainer Smith, but write in allegory. I'm wondering if the latter can really be considered "Christian science fiction" or whether the main characters must themselves be explicitly Christian or confront Christian issues for that to be so. There are, in fact, many science fiction writers who are Christian who don't write what I would consider "Christian fiction".

Everlasting said:
Adapting to our world, is the only alternative. We do it everyday, and take it for granted. You have heat in your home, by technology:Without it you would not survive.

Just another way to adapt to our environment.

I actually consider this adapting our environment to us, rather than the other way around. I think that we run into trouble when we assume that adapting the world to our needs has no potential long-term repercussions.

Everlasting · Apr 5, 2007

Peggy said:
I actually consider this adapting our environment to us, rather than the other way around. I think that we run into trouble when we assume that adapting the world to our needs has no potential long-term repercussions.

Adapting to our environment is the sciene fiction mystery;
witin the plot.

In our current world - Global Warming is a repercussion of our attempts
to adapt and meet the world's needs. To soon we find out; what other
consequences and burdens come with this manifestation.

We are trying to match the universe, and anyone who says that we
are not, is un-aware.

When reading other fiction books that intricately describe a
murder or creatures that invade from other planets, I find no
other description for my book but inspirational. The characters
are real people, and they strive to find unity; during a unique period
in time; Or should I say the future.

Everlasting
Inspirational/Spiritual Christian Science Fiction Novel
Moon Over Key Biscayne
booksandmore.4t.com

:Sun:

Peggy · Apr 5, 2007

Everlasting said:
In our current world - Global Warming is a repercussion of our attempts to adapt and meet the world's needs. To soon we find out; what other consequences and burdens come with this manifestation.

I think we are looking at the same issues from different points of view. I see it as us adapting the world, you see it as us adapting to the world. From my perspective, it's the arrogance that we believe we can willfully shape the world to our comfort without repercussions that will be our downfall. But that's an argument for another the other board.

Everlasting said:
When reading other fiction books that intricately describe a murder or creatures that invade from other planets, I find no other description for my book but inspirational. The characters are real people, and they strive to find unity; during a unique period in time; Or should I say the future.

Do your characters find the solution to the world's ills in the in Gospels and their relationship with Jesus? That is what would make the story Christian to me.

Everlasting · Apr 5, 2007

A pure spirit, faith and hope are woven through the text.

What does the Bible require of us?

1 Cr 3-4 describe how a man's work will be made manifest. For
a (day) will declare whether his works will abide upon what he
has built, and whether he will receive his reward (triumph).
Then shall every man and every good work have praise.

The scriptures bind the chapters, and the characters are
presented with the admonition, and fullness of God's promise.
Whereby A pure Spirit represents Christian values.

Everlasting
Bible Inspired Author
Moon Over Key Biscayne
booksandmore.4t.com

:Sun:

Roger J Carlson · Apr 6, 2007

Everlasting said:
A pure spirit, faith and hope are woven through the text.
...
Whereby A pure Spirit represents Christian values.

I'm not sure I agree that a pure Spirit represents Christian values. Lots of religions emphasize purity of spirit. What makes Christianity Christianity is the Gospel -- that is -- God loved the world so much that he himself came to take away everyone's sins.

On a more general note, (and to perhaps broaden the scope of the discussion) I've always been leery of Christian Science Fiction. I don't see it as the wide-open genre you claim.

Science Fiction is all about examining the "what-ifs". But in order to be Christian, it must conform to the Gospel, which leaves out a whole range of "what-ifs".

For instance, what if the roles of God and Satan were reversed? What if God is a deranged supreme being, and Satan is really the good guy, cleaning up after God? Perfectly good SF that involves Christian values and characters, but certainly not Christian SF. (In fact, Heinlein's Job: A Comedy of Justice is based on exactly this premise.)

This conflict between the far-ranging ideas of SF and the much smaller field of Christian fiction makes Christian Science Fiction a very delicate balancing act, one that very few authors have achieved or are capable of achieving.

If you don't quite hit the mark, you either have Spiritual Science Fiction or Techno-Christian (which is not Christian SF in the same way that Techo-Thrillers are not SF). This is why, although I am a Christian, I write straight Science Fiction.

Everlasting · Apr 6, 2007

Roger J Carlson said:
On a more general note, (and to perhaps broaden the scope of the discussion) I've always been leery of Christian Science Fiction. I don't see it as the wide-open genre you claim.

Science Fiction is all about examining the "what-ifs". But in order to be Christian, it must conform to the Gospel, which leaves out a whole range of "what-ifs".

With all of the current debates about global warming, and it's implications to world. Some Christian's are referring to the phenomenon as one of the last plaques. Because the Bible is an intricate detailed work of God's creation, I am compelled to believe the following:

2 Pet 3:8
Ps 139:5
2 Peter 3:10
Rev 15 1:2

Since a moment in time is like a thousand years to the Lord. And no one can say to a certainty how God's plan has evolved; A man's work will be made manifest. For A (day) will declare whether his works will abide upon what he has built, and whether he will receive his reward (triumph). Then shall every man and every good work have praise.

The Gospel in a masterpiece of intricate revelation. The premise of the Gospel if founded on man's ability to have intercession through prayer, supplication and good works.

Would God be angry with man, if everyone turned from their ways; and
followed his word?

Everlasting
Bible Inspired Author
Moon Over Key Biscayne
booksandmore.4t.com

Roger J Carlson · Apr 6, 2007

So how exactly do you define Christian Science Fiction?

Peggy · Apr 6, 2007

Roger J Carlson said:
This conflict between the far-ranging ideas of SF and the much smaller field of Christian fiction makes Christian Science Fiction a very delicate balancing act, one that very few authors have achieved or are capable of achieving.

So are there examples of what you would call Christian science fiction? This list seems very broad in its definition (basically any science fiction story that touches on Christianity or Christian themes). Personally, I wouldn't consider A Canticle for Leibowitz or Robinson's Callahan books particularly Christian. I had no idea that Pat Robertson had dabbled in science fiction, but I have no doubt that his novel would fit into both "Christian" and "science fiction" categories.

Everlasting said:
With all of the current debates about global warming, and it's implications to world. Some Christian's are referring to the phenomenon as one of the last plaques.

The Biblical plagues were the direct work of God. Is that the angle you're taking with your book, that global warming is a sign or punishment from God, rather than a side effect of human technology?

Everlasting said:
The Gospel in a masterpiece of intricate revelation. The premise of the Gospel if founded on man's ability to have intercession through prayer, supplication and good works.

It sounds like you were truly inspired by the Gospels in writing your novel. The way I understand it, though, is that just because you are a Christian and were inspired by the Gospels doesn't make your story Christian in and of itself.

Roger J Carlson · Apr 6, 2007

Peggy said:
So are there examples of what you would call Christian science fiction? This list seems very broad in its definition (basically any science fiction story that touches on Christianity or Christian themes). Personally, I wouldn't consider A Canticle for Leibowitz or Robinson's Callahan books particularly Christian. I had no idea that Pat Robertson had dabbled in science fiction, but I have no doubt that his novel would fit into both "Christian" and "science fiction" categories.

I've read about half of the books on that list and the only one I'd call Christian SF was Dream Thief by Lawhead. And I have to agree with the review that it wasn't very good. I think that's my point about how hard this is to write.

III · Apr 6, 2007

Roger, maybe you can help me with a classification question. I'm writing a series that's definitely Christian, but the main characters are heroes who have been equipped by God. Think "X-Men" meets the book of Judges within the scope of an epic scriptural mystery. I've been using the label "Christian Fantasy" as a general descriptor, but it always feels inaccurate. I guess crossover Graphic Novel authors like Neil Gaiman end up in the Sci-Fi / Fantasy section, but is there a better descriptor for a sub-genre like this one?

I spent a year trying to find a publisher or agent for the first two completed novels, but every Christian Fiction publisher / agent I queried flatly replied that they didn't handle "this type of novel". I published the first two novels through iUniverse, but I'm planning to run the gammut of agents again with the third novel. Am I just shooting myself in the foot with this sub-genre?

Everlasting · Apr 6, 2007

The Book of Timothy tells us to: study to show ourselves approved
unto God. A workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing
the word of truth.

Hebrews 11 tells us that by faith Noah feared, applied intercession
by building an ark, and saving his house.

Being in the latter days as people who have obtained wisdom; the
requirements have changed.

Technology may be the cause, but it can also be the solution.

Intercession is a Godly concept woven throughout the Gospel.
Jesus Christ used intercession for the remission of sins.

Technology is based on science. That is why my book is
in the Christian Science Fiction genre. Salvation is the premise
in the beginning, but intercession provides the solution.

Everlasting
Bible Inspired Author
Moon Over Key Biscayne
booksandmore.4t.com

:Sun:

small axe · Apr 6, 2007

I certainly find the idea of "Christian Science Fiction" a fascinating one ... but I'll be honest here and admit that I'm not quite following Everlasting's ideas (admittedly, my bad).

There would seem to be a basic incongruity of genres and reader expectations though, if the "science" in Science Fiction is ever violated by miracles or non-scientific explanations, right?

I mean, you cannot have the plot resolved by an out-and-out "Miracle" in violation of the "Scientific" expectations of the SF genre.

Certainly, there are fascinating possibilities in seeing stories about persons of Faith dealing with future dilemmas. Certainly the idea of HUMAN religion coming into conflict with ALIEN religion is captivating.

And yes, much Science Fiction bends the "science" so far away from hard science, that the SF genre begins to blend into the Fantasy genre.

But ... I admire your aspirations to explore "Christian science Fiction" Everlastng!

Roger J Carlson · Apr 7, 2007

III said:
Roger, maybe you can help me with a classification question. I'm writing a series that's definitely Christian, but the main characters are heroes who have been equipped by God. Think "X-Men" meets the book of Judges within the scope of an epic scriptural mystery. I've been using the label "Christian Fantasy" as a general descriptor, but it always feels inaccurate. I guess crossover Graphic Novel authors like Neil Gaiman end up in the Sci-Fi / Fantasy section, but is there a better descriptor for a sub-genre like this one?

I spent a year trying to find a publisher or agent for the first two completed novels, but every Christian Fiction publisher / agent I queried flatly replied that they didn't handle "this type of novel". I published the first two novels through iUniverse, but I'm planning to run the gammut of agents again with the third novel. Am I just shooting myself in the foot with this sub-genre?

And there you've hit the problem. Christian publishers are apt to think it's too far out. They are basically conservative. Science Fiction publishers are apt to think it's too religious.

I can't tell you if you're wasting your time, though. No book is publishable until someone publishes it. Both Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter had trouble finding homes because publishers thought it wouldn't sell -- until it did.

But you've certainly chosen difficult path. It's hard enough to get published in already established genres, let alone a new cross-over.

Good luck, though.

III · Apr 9, 2007

Roger J Carlson said:
And there you've hit the problem. Christian publishers are apt to think it's too far out. They are basically conservative. Science Fiction publishers are apt to think it's too religious.

I can't tell you if you're wasting your time, though. No book is publishable until someone publishes it. Both Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter had trouble finding homes because publishers thought it wouldn't sell -- until it did.

But you've certainly chosen difficult path. It's hard enough to get published in already established genres, let alone a new cross-over.

Good luck, though.

Thanks for your insight, Roger. I'm glad we have tools like Amazon now to help create product availability for emerging genres, and email to create word-of-mouth demand. Even without a publisher, it's still been an exciting and gratifying process. I'll just have to keep plugging along and see what happens, and hopefully edify some people along the way.

God bless,
Jay

Everlasting · Apr 9, 2007

small axe said:
I certainly find the idea of "Christian Science Fiction" a fascinating one ... but I'll be honest here and admit that I'm not quite following Everlasting's ideas (admittedly, my bad).

There would seem to be a basic incongruity of genres and reader expectations though, if the "science" in Science Fiction is ever violated by miracles or non-scientific explanations, right?

I mean, you cannot have the plot resolved by an out-and-out "Miracle" in violation of the "Scientific" expectations of the SF genre.

Certainly, there are fascinating possibilities in seeing stories about persons of Faith dealing with future dilemmas. Certainly the idea of HUMAN religion coming into conflict with ALIEN religion is captivating.

And yes, much Science Fiction bends the "science" so far away from hard science, that the SF genre begins to blend into the Fantasy genre.

But ... I admire your aspirations to explore "Christian science Fiction" Everlastng!

Science Fiction by definition is looking into the future. The Bible
is a book of prophecy. Christian Science Fiction puts a face or
a "what if" to a particular event. The Left Behind Series takes the
book of Revelation, and presents characters involved in the
Tribulation. (A viewpoint of how the Tribulation could be). As with
many religions the hope and faith is that Jesus will return exactly
like the Bible says. But most religious scholars will admit; there
could be more than one scenario.

Everlasting

Inspirational/Spiritual Science Fiction Novel
Moon Over Key Biscayne
booksandmore.4t.com

Mac H. · Apr 9, 2007

Roger J Carlson said:
I've read about half of the books on that list and the only one I'd call Christian SF was Dream Thief by Lawhead. And I have to agree with the review that it wasn't very good. I think that's my point about how hard this is to write.

Did you read Lawhead's "Empyrion" ?

I felt that was a 'Christian SF' even before I knew that it was Lawhead's intention. It never mentions the subject in the exact words, but at least to someone from a church background, the connections seemed clear enough.

Come to think of it, though, someone with a Hindu background could have possibly thought of it as Hindu SF !

From memory, the old TV version of Shaazam seemed to get his powers from Abraham - did that make the TV program a Christian superhero?

(Yes, I realise it was technically Captain Marval or whatever, but the TV program seemed a little vague on that subject)

Ooh - I just thought of a great example of 'Christian Science Fiction' www.imdb.com/title/tt0708421/
("Bread and Circuses")

It was an episode of Star Trek - possibly the worst 'kludge Christianity into Sci-Fi' ever seen.

Mac

Christian Science Fiction

Everlasting

poetinahat

Numbers are beautiful

Everlasting

Festus

No limits to imagination

Peggy

Everlasting

Roger J Carlson

Moderator In Name Only

James D. Macdonald

Your Genial Uncle

Everlasting

Peggy

Everlasting

Peggy

Everlasting

Roger J Carlson

Moderator In Name Only

Everlasting

Roger J Carlson

Moderator In Name Only

Peggy

Roger J Carlson

Moderator In Name Only

III

rockin the suburbs

Everlasting

small axe

memento mori

Roger J Carlson

Moderator In Name Only

III

rockin the suburbs

Everlasting

Mac H.

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