Why Stephen King Is My Theological Writing Hero | Ep. 010

Hey Creative Christian,

Episode 10 of the GospelWise Author Podcast is LIVE—and it’s a special one that might surprise you! I’m pulling back the curtain to talk about a rather unexpected inspiration behind my own writing as a Christian fiction author: Stephen King.

Yep, THAT Stephen King. If you’re scratching your head or intrigued, tune in!

🎙️ Episode Spotlight: I know what you might be thinking: “Stephen King? Really?” Stick with me, because this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and a fresh take on how stories—even the darkest ones—can point readers to Christ and the hope we have in him.

Here are 5 keys you'll learn in this episode:

1. Why this Christian Writer Loves Stephen King
   Get a transparent look at how King's books (from Mr. Mercedes to Holly) actually help me tackle deep questions of evil, redemption, and our calling as storytellers.

2. Understanding the Real “Monsters”
   This episode breaks down how horror—at its heart—is about confronting the darkness within us, not just the things that go bump in the night.

3. The Theological Core of Great Fiction
   Learn why spotlighting the brokenness in our world through story is a great opportunity for Christian writers to share the real hope of the gospel.

4. What Scripture and Stephen King Have in Common
   I unpacks how both the Bible and King’s novels force us to be honest about the depths of evil within humanity, and how Jesus is the ultimate answer.

5. A Writer's Call Beyond Entertainment
   Find out how you, too, can leverage your unique voice to offer light in the darkness—whether you’re an aspiring author or just love powerful, faith-filled stories.

Fun Fact from the Episode: Most of my Stephen King reading started not with the gory, old-school horror novels, but with his detective series Mr. Mercedes. Turns out, a private eye story with a twist of horror can teach a Christian writer loads about human nature, storytelling, and even… theology!

Dive in and hear why I (a former pastor and a Christian fiction author) see King as a sort of unlikely “theological hero” (shocking, I know!). Plus, you’ll get practical insight to help you craft stories that reflect both the world’s real darkness—and the even better hope we have in Christ.

Want to write your own powerful stories?

👉 My StoryWise Formula is a step-by-step training designed to help Christian creatives craft compelling, faith-filled narratives from start to finish. Start the training at www.crossandpen.com/formula.

👉 My StoryWise Framework guides you through every stage of story development, empowering you to confidently share your message and connect with readers on a deeper level. Get the framework at www.crossandpen.com/framework.

Thank you for being part of this community. Got thoughts, questions, or want to share how YOU’ve found inspiration in unlikely places? Hit reply—I’d love to hear from you or reach out at crossandpen.com/contact.

Listen to the latest episode now, and keep creating for Christ!

/ jeremy

P.S. If you want to uplevel your storytelling, check out my StoryWise Formula and StoryWise Framework—tools designed to equip Christian creatives like you!

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Hey there ! 👋 My passion is to empower Christian writers like you seeking guidance to wield the power of the pen for the sake of the cross through training + resources and coaching + guidance that upskill and inspire — empowering you to rock it with personal style + creative freedom.

Proud hubby + Dad 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Vintage jazz vinyl enthusiast 🎷 Apple fanboy before the cool kids were 