Monday, April 30, 2012
Tuesday, April 03, 2012
Wednesday, August 03, 2011
GREAT NEWS!
My first novel, "OF SUCH IS THE KINGDOM" is scheduled to launch as a serial audio book this Friday (Aug.5) For info., GO HERE.
MORE GREAT NEWS: You can now give the e-book versions of any of my books as gifts. For details go to the book's Smashwords.com page and click "how gifting works."
MORE GREAT NEWS: You can now give the e-book versions of any of my books as gifts. For details go to the book's Smashwords.com page and click "how gifting works."
Sunday, November 23, 2008
CHRISTIAN FICTION OR EVANGELISTIC FICTION ?--an honest appraisal for thinking Christians By James M. Becher
I wonder if most Christians realize the value of Evangelistic fiction
in reaching the lost. I purposely use the term "Evangelistic fiction" and not "Christian fiction" as I feel there is a difference. Let me explain. "Christian fiction" is fiction written by Christians for Christians, whereas "Evangelistic fiction" is meant primarily to reach the lost. Of course, some Christian fiction also could be used to plant seeds of curiosity or interest. Christian fiction may deal with themes like holding onto faith in the midst of difficult circumstances and seeing God work, while evangelistic fiction brings the reader face to face with the significance of Christ’s death and makes him face the fact that it was for him. My 2 published novels are primarily Evangelistic fiction, although they could be called Christian fiction as well, since they can serve as entertainment for Christians. My main purpose in writing them, however, was to reach unbelievers. Thus, Some Christians may even find some things in them objectionable. For example, the non-Christian characters in my sci-fi novel sometimes use words like "dang." Well what can you expect from non-Christians? I tried to keep it acceptable while trying to get into the mind of the characters, as yet unsaved (till the end).
One character in my Biblical novel uses the word "confounded" although his wife rebukes him for it. There are also elements of romance in my Biblical novel ("God forbid"---that's one reaction I've had from some Christians.) Well as I said, I wasn't writing for you. I didn't intend to write lily white stories for pious Christians to enjoy, although--don't get me wrong--aside from the things I have already mentioned and perhaps the presence of a bar-room/brothel, my novels do make for good clean reading. I write for God’s glory but primarily to reach the lost. My novels have not done well so far at all and I think the reason is that Christians have failed to get the idea. That friend you've been wanting to witness to but haven't found the words, that neighbor who you invited to Church but refused to go, that family member for you've been praying to come to Christ--Why not give them a work of evangelistic fiction as a gift? It can serve as a sort of door opener or ice breaker to start them thinking along the lines of the gospel. They may even change their attitude toward the gospel just from reading the novel. Then, later you can follow up by asking them how they enjoyed it, what they thought, etc. Of course, it might be good if you would have read it also, just so you know what they would be talking about. Of course my novels are not the only evangelistic novels available today. In fact, I've listed quite a few others for your consideration in my slide show to the right and my store (the link just above the slide show or any or the "evangelistic fiction" links in this post.) All I'm saying is that we Christians should consider using these kinds of tools in our evangelistic efforts.
in reaching the lost. I purposely use the term "Evangelistic fiction" and not "Christian fiction" as I feel there is a difference. Let me explain. "Christian fiction" is fiction written by Christians for Christians, whereas "Evangelistic fiction" is meant primarily to reach the lost. Of course, some Christian fiction also could be used to plant seeds of curiosity or interest. Christian fiction may deal with themes like holding onto faith in the midst of difficult circumstances and seeing God work, while evangelistic fiction brings the reader face to face with the significance of Christ’s death and makes him face the fact that it was for him. My 2 published novels are primarily Evangelistic fiction, although they could be called Christian fiction as well, since they can serve as entertainment for Christians. My main purpose in writing them, however, was to reach unbelievers. Thus, Some Christians may even find some things in them objectionable. For example, the non-Christian characters in my sci-fi novel sometimes use words like "dang." Well what can you expect from non-Christians? I tried to keep it acceptable while trying to get into the mind of the characters, as yet unsaved (till the end).
One character in my Biblical novel uses the word "confounded" although his wife rebukes him for it. There are also elements of romance in my Biblical novel ("God forbid"---that's one reaction I've had from some Christians.) Well as I said, I wasn't writing for you. I didn't intend to write lily white stories for pious Christians to enjoy, although--don't get me wrong--aside from the things I have already mentioned and perhaps the presence of a bar-room/brothel, my novels do make for good clean reading. I write for God’s glory but primarily to reach the lost. My novels have not done well so far at all and I think the reason is that Christians have failed to get the idea. That friend you've been wanting to witness to but haven't found the words, that neighbor who you invited to Church but refused to go, that family member for you've been praying to come to Christ--Why not give them a work of evangelistic fiction as a gift? It can serve as a sort of door opener or ice breaker to start them thinking along the lines of the gospel. They may even change their attitude toward the gospel just from reading the novel. Then, later you can follow up by asking them how they enjoyed it, what they thought, etc. Of course, it might be good if you would have read it also, just so you know what they would be talking about. Of course my novels are not the only evangelistic novels available today. In fact, I've listed quite a few others for your consideration in my slide show to the right and my store (the link just above the slide show or any or the "evangelistic fiction" links in this post.) All I'm saying is that we Christians should consider using these kinds of tools in our evangelistic efforts.
Monday, November 17, 2008
SYNOPSIS AND REVIEWS OF "OF SUCH IS THE KINGDOM, A Novel of Biblical Times"
SYNOPSIS BY THE AUTHOR:
Step back into New Testament times--to Ancient Jerusalem at the time of Christ and of the historical Roman Empire, and ask: What could a cynical, non-conformist dry-goods salesman, a disgruntled blacksmith, and a musing mendicant all have in common? The answer: Down deep, they all seek something better; and eventually, they all find the childlike faith and humility required to enter God's kingdom and find true fulfillment. The non-conformist, Manaheem, Herod’s foster brother, helps Herod foment an insurrection against Pontius Pilate, using the blacksmith, Barabbas, as insurrection leader, to the dismay of Barabbas' Godly but fearful wife. The mendicant, a young man named Timotheus, joins with an older mendicant completely unsympathetic to his musings. Meanwhile, Pontius Pilate’s wife pushes him to take over Herod’s kingdom. When the insurrection fails, Non-conformist, Manaheem, tries to blackmail Herod, and Barabbas turns to robbery, enlisting the aid of our two mendicants. Manaheem almost loses his one true love, his former wife Claressa, also a non-conformist, with whom Manaheem is trying to re-unite. The robbery goes bad, and Barabbas and the mendicants are caught, tried for murder and sentenced to death by crucifixion. Barabbas is also charged with the insurrection against Pontius Pilate.
-------
REVIEWS:
1) Review by Viviane Crystal of Crystalreviews.com
Beneath every human beings virtues and foibles, a singular hunger lies waiting for a revelation which will create a powerful direction that supercedes all other human goals. James M. Becher takes the reader back to the lifetime of Jesus Christ, into the homes, conversations, and deeds of ordinary and extraordinary individuals who were so deeply affected by the birth of this man. Meet Manaheem, Herod's foster brother, who on one hand attempts to influence history by helping his brother to unseat Pontius Pilate, the Roman Procurator, and on the other hand who knows there is something more to life than the grasping machinations he plans and which his brother carries out. Observe Pilate, the ruler who holds a most undesirable position of authority in a world so unlike the Rome he loves and whose spiritual wife attempts to influence her husband from committing acts sure to doom his political career and damn his all too human soul. Watch Timotheus, a beggar, who is deeply affected by Jesus' appearances but whose openness is constantly redirected by his companion, Lucas's, desire for more money.Finally, meet Barabbas, a simple blacksmith who is engaged to carry out a coup against Pilate and who turns to robbery after the political plot fails. On the one hand he is portrayed as any ordinary crook but on the other hand has the same innate needs that will promise less futile struggling and more peacefulness and security. The man whose death sentence replaces that of Barabbas continues to haunt him so much that he follows the condemned prisoner's path and demise to its very last moment.Earthly plots fail and the horrendous dying process Jesus experiences, accompanied by a desperate plea to God, compassionate words, and a moving surrender to his mission, affects everyone involved in this momentous event. Read this book to discover the fictional yet all too probable, and powerful, effect of one man sent to speak to the heart of every human being within this novel and those who read it.Very nicely written, J. M. Becher!
2)Review by A reader from Yorkshire England
A Novel of Substance; a gripping and powerful read that held me in Intrigue and suspense. A book that could be enjoyed by Christians and non Christians alike. I would not hesitate to recommend it to my friends.
3)Review by Rudelle Thomas in the January issue of Divine Eloquence: http://divineeloquence.divineministries777.net
Of Such Is The Kingdom is a fictional novel based on Biblical truths. James Becher has artfully taken the events surrounding Jesus' time here on earth and told what could have been from each characters perspective. The story has a powerful message that has clearly been displayed throughout the novel. Mr. Becher takes you through a wide range of emotions from beginning to end. As you turn the final pages having just been taken through Jesus' last days on earth, you are left not only feeling grateful for what He's done for us, but also hopeful and joyful, knowing that the Gospel of Jesus Christ affects and changes the lives of all who hears it. This is a great novel that I'm sure you will enjoy!
-------------------
This novel has just been re-published by the original publisher in a newly revised and expanded 2nd edition, with an added "Part III," dealing with the early church and the reaction of rulers to this new sect called Christians. It is in print and available HERE You can ALSO GET A Pre-published VERSION FULLY COMPATIBLE WITH YOUR E-READING DEVICE OR FOR ONLINE READING from SMASHWORDS HERE. You can READ THE FIRST 20% FOR FREE before deciding to buy it PLUS, through AUGUST 31, GET 50% OFF with coupon code VG64D. ALSO GET 25% off a future purchase (for a gift) when you purchase my self-help book, "Principles of the Kingdom" for only $3.99. at SMASHWORDS HERE
FOR KINDLE OR to get a print copy from AMAZON, click HERE:
Of Such Is the Kingdom: A Novel of Biblical Times
While they last, you can also get first edition print copy from Amazon HERE Of Such Is the Kingdom : A Novel of Biblical Times
OR subscribe to LISTEN to episodes of the first edition (PARTS I & II ONLY) read by the author himself HERE
Step back into New Testament times--to Ancient Jerusalem at the time of Christ and of the historical Roman Empire, and ask: What could a cynical, non-conformist dry-goods salesman, a disgruntled blacksmith, and a musing mendicant all have in common? The answer: Down deep, they all seek something better; and eventually, they all find the childlike faith and humility required to enter God's kingdom and find true fulfillment. The non-conformist, Manaheem, Herod’s foster brother, helps Herod foment an insurrection against Pontius Pilate, using the blacksmith, Barabbas, as insurrection leader, to the dismay of Barabbas' Godly but fearful wife. The mendicant, a young man named Timotheus, joins with an older mendicant completely unsympathetic to his musings. Meanwhile, Pontius Pilate’s wife pushes him to take over Herod’s kingdom. When the insurrection fails, Non-conformist, Manaheem, tries to blackmail Herod, and Barabbas turns to robbery, enlisting the aid of our two mendicants. Manaheem almost loses his one true love, his former wife Claressa, also a non-conformist, with whom Manaheem is trying to re-unite. The robbery goes bad, and Barabbas and the mendicants are caught, tried for murder and sentenced to death by crucifixion. Barabbas is also charged with the insurrection against Pontius Pilate.
-------
REVIEWS:
1) Review by Viviane Crystal of Crystalreviews.com
Beneath every human beings virtues and foibles, a singular hunger lies waiting for a revelation which will create a powerful direction that supercedes all other human goals. James M. Becher takes the reader back to the lifetime of Jesus Christ, into the homes, conversations, and deeds of ordinary and extraordinary individuals who were so deeply affected by the birth of this man. Meet Manaheem, Herod's foster brother, who on one hand attempts to influence history by helping his brother to unseat Pontius Pilate, the Roman Procurator, and on the other hand who knows there is something more to life than the grasping machinations he plans and which his brother carries out. Observe Pilate, the ruler who holds a most undesirable position of authority in a world so unlike the Rome he loves and whose spiritual wife attempts to influence her husband from committing acts sure to doom his political career and damn his all too human soul. Watch Timotheus, a beggar, who is deeply affected by Jesus' appearances but whose openness is constantly redirected by his companion, Lucas's, desire for more money.Finally, meet Barabbas, a simple blacksmith who is engaged to carry out a coup against Pilate and who turns to robbery after the political plot fails. On the one hand he is portrayed as any ordinary crook but on the other hand has the same innate needs that will promise less futile struggling and more peacefulness and security. The man whose death sentence replaces that of Barabbas continues to haunt him so much that he follows the condemned prisoner's path and demise to its very last moment.Earthly plots fail and the horrendous dying process Jesus experiences, accompanied by a desperate plea to God, compassionate words, and a moving surrender to his mission, affects everyone involved in this momentous event. Read this book to discover the fictional yet all too probable, and powerful, effect of one man sent to speak to the heart of every human being within this novel and those who read it.Very nicely written, J. M. Becher!
2)Review by A reader from Yorkshire England
A Novel of Substance; a gripping and powerful read that held me in Intrigue and suspense. A book that could be enjoyed by Christians and non Christians alike. I would not hesitate to recommend it to my friends.
3)Review by Rudelle Thomas in the January issue of Divine Eloquence: http://divineeloquence.divineministries777.net
Of Such Is The Kingdom is a fictional novel based on Biblical truths. James Becher has artfully taken the events surrounding Jesus' time here on earth and told what could have been from each characters perspective. The story has a powerful message that has clearly been displayed throughout the novel. Mr. Becher takes you through a wide range of emotions from beginning to end. As you turn the final pages having just been taken through Jesus' last days on earth, you are left not only feeling grateful for what He's done for us, but also hopeful and joyful, knowing that the Gospel of Jesus Christ affects and changes the lives of all who hears it. This is a great novel that I'm sure you will enjoy!
-------------------
This novel has just been re-published by the original publisher in a newly revised and expanded 2nd edition, with an added "Part III," dealing with the early church and the reaction of rulers to this new sect called Christians. It is in print and available HERE You can ALSO GET A Pre-published VERSION FULLY COMPATIBLE WITH YOUR E-READING DEVICE OR FOR ONLINE READING from SMASHWORDS HERE. You can READ THE FIRST 20% FOR FREE before deciding to buy it PLUS, through AUGUST 31, GET 50% OFF with coupon code VG64D. ALSO GET 25% off a future purchase (for a gift) when you purchase my self-help book, "Principles of the Kingdom" for only $3.99. at SMASHWORDS HERE
FOR KINDLE OR to get a print copy from AMAZON, click HERE:
Of Such Is the Kingdom: A Novel of Biblical Times
While they last, you can also get first edition print copy from Amazon HERE Of Such Is the Kingdom : A Novel of Biblical Times OR subscribe to LISTEN to episodes of the first edition (PARTS I & II ONLY) read by the author himself HERE
Friday, December 21, 2007
SYNOPSIS of "IMPOSSIBLE JOURNEY BY THE AUTHOR:
IMPOSSIBLE JOURNEY is truly a sci-fi (science fiction) novel (specifically a time-travel novel) with a purpose!! It is a unique blend of elements of science fiction, historical fiction and Biblical truth.
What do these historical eras have in common: 1)the California gold rush, 2)early colonial America, 3)the renaissance, 4)the reformation, 5)the time of Camelot and 6)the time of Christ? They all contain valuable lessons and point to the ultimate truth of the gospel.
What do a group of future scientists from all over the world have in common? A desire for truth, hope for a bright future and a belief in a Divine being, but a disbelief in a Savior.
Put all of the above elements together and you have an explosive formula for an engrossing science fiction / fantasy adventure novel which could also be of interest to fans of historical fiction and Christian fiction as well as those of science fiction. It's truly an important work of evangelistic fiction as it uses the vehicle of science fiction as well as that of history itself to clarify several aspects of the Christian faith and clearly present the gospel message.
In the future, when time-travel is theoretically proven an universally accepted, a group of scientists of all faiths decide to try to time-travel back to the Garden of Eden in order to prevent the fall of man and thus put an end to all sin, sickness and disease.
But, they can only go back 200 years, more or less, at a time and will have to make repairs to the time cylinder at every stop. Thus, they visit the historical California gold rush and then early Colonial America. Then, they are pulled forward unexpectedly to a future time of trouble, where robots serve, and forced to fight in a senseless war. They manage to break free and take off only to discover they have a stow away. But the stow away has a device which will help them to go further back with each leap. Thus, they then time-travel to the Renaissance and meet the historical figure, Leonardo Da Vincie, But, by mistake they take off without the stow away and his device. Then, they are pulled forward again, but only to the time of the Reformation, where they meet Martin Luther and have an argument over faith.
Then, with the help of a new fuel formula, using alcohol, they manage to arrive at Camelot and finally, Ancient Jerusalem, where they at last realize the real answer--the true end and goal of their mission, salvation through the crucified and risen Christ.
------
NOTE: This novel is NOW BACK IN PRINT with the original publisher and can be PURCHASED DIRECTLY from them HERE for softcover and HERE for Hardcover.
It is also available as an e-book on Smashwords, so you can get A 2nd edition VERSION FULLY COMPATIBLE WITH YOUR E-READING DEVICE Or for online reading from SMASHWORDS HERE and you can READ THE FIRST 20% FOR FREE before deciding to buy AND GET 50% OFF with coupon code AP67B at SMASHWORDS
FOR KINDLE OR to get a print copy FROM AMAZON, click HERE: Impossible Journey: A Tale of Times and Truth
What do these historical eras have in common: 1)the California gold rush, 2)early colonial America, 3)the renaissance, 4)the reformation, 5)the time of Camelot and 6)the time of Christ? They all contain valuable lessons and point to the ultimate truth of the gospel. What do a group of future scientists from all over the world have in common? A desire for truth, hope for a bright future and a belief in a Divine being, but a disbelief in a Savior.
Put all of the above elements together and you have an explosive formula for an engrossing science fiction / fantasy adventure novel which could also be of interest to fans of historical fiction and Christian fiction as well as those of science fiction. It's truly an important work of evangelistic fiction as it uses the vehicle of science fiction as well as that of history itself to clarify several aspects of the Christian faith and clearly present the gospel message.
In the future, when time-travel is theoretically proven an universally accepted, a group of scientists of all faiths decide to try to time-travel back to the Garden of Eden in order to prevent the fall of man and thus put an end to all sin, sickness and disease.
But, they can only go back 200 years, more or less, at a time and will have to make repairs to the time cylinder at every stop. Thus, they visit the historical California gold rush and then early Colonial America. Then, they are pulled forward unexpectedly to a future time of trouble, where robots serve, and forced to fight in a senseless war. They manage to break free and take off only to discover they have a stow away. But the stow away has a device which will help them to go further back with each leap. Thus, they then time-travel to the Renaissance and meet the historical figure, Leonardo Da Vincie, But, by mistake they take off without the stow away and his device. Then, they are pulled forward again, but only to the time of the Reformation, where they meet Martin Luther and have an argument over faith.
Then, with the help of a new fuel formula, using alcohol, they manage to arrive at Camelot and finally, Ancient Jerusalem, where they at last realize the real answer--the true end and goal of their mission, salvation through the crucified and risen Christ.
------
NOTE: This novel is NOW BACK IN PRINT with the original publisher and can be PURCHASED DIRECTLY from them HERE for softcover and HERE for Hardcover.
It is also available as an e-book on Smashwords, so you can get A 2nd edition VERSION FULLY COMPATIBLE WITH YOUR E-READING DEVICE Or for online reading from SMASHWORDS HERE and you can READ THE FIRST 20% FOR FREE before deciding to buy AND GET 50% OFF with coupon code AP67B at SMASHWORDS
FOR KINDLE OR to get a print copy FROM AMAZON, click HERE: Impossible Journey: A Tale of Times and Truth
Saturday, January 13, 2007
My FREE inspriational & evangelistic ezine
My fellow Christians:
Before you go, please consider subscribing to my FREE bi-weekly inspirational & evangelistic ezine, "Inspirational Success Tips." And speard the word. For details, including sample articles, poems, quotes and subscribe instructions, incl. spam filter avoidance, CLICK HERE
Before you go, please consider subscribing to my FREE bi-weekly inspirational & evangelistic ezine, "Inspirational Success Tips." And speard the word. For details, including sample articles, poems, quotes and subscribe instructions, incl. spam filter avoidance, CLICK HERE
Monday, December 04, 2006
More excerpts, etc., on other blog
More excerpts from both novels & my synopsis of "OF SUCH IS THE KINGDOM" on my regular blog: CLICK HERE
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