My Personal Take on the Word “Inspirational”

I don’t have anything against the word “inspirational.” Honestly, I don’t.

BUT…

I do have trouble with it as a category for fiction.

Here’s why.

Is there really such a thing as “inspirational” fiction?
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Inspirational – A Definition

Dictionary.com defines “inspirational” as: 1) imparting inspiration, 2) under the influence of inspiration; inspired, or 3) of or relating to inspiration.

So if we use the term inspirational in reference to fiction we are implying that either the book imparts inspiration, the book is inspired, or that it’s related to inspiration.

Inspirational Fiction…Really?

On a basic level, I understand what people mean when they say inspirational fiction or inspirational romance, but as it relates to Christian fiction, why not use the word “Christian” instead?

Is the word “Christian” too confrontational? Too politically incorrect?

Is “inspirational” less intrusive? More palatable?

Do we use the word “inspirational” to keep from offending others?
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Let’s think about this a second.

I only know of one book that is truly inspired, and that’s the Bible. Even God’s Word proclaims it to be so.

All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. -2 Timothy 3:16

All Scripture is inspired by God… 2 Timothy 3:16
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On the other hand, people tend to use the word “inspirational” about many things. A trip to the beach or to a ball game can be inspirational, depending on a person’s point of view. A movie or book with nary a reference to God can be described as inspirational.

Writers and other artists often refer to inspiration hitting them. Does that mean that every book or piece of art is inspired?

Hardly.

Inspirational – Why I Don’t Like It As a Description For Christian Fiction

First off, I think a lot of folks use the term “inspirational” in place of the word “Christian,” because they think it will offend less people. But the last time I checked, we’re not to be ashamed of that name or the gospel that goes with it.

Secondly, a Christian book is no more inspired than any other book with the exception of the Bible. Yes, it might contain references to scripture that’s inspired, but the book itself just isn’t.

Thirdly, to me the term “inspirational” is just one more thing that tries to water down Christianity, all for the purpose of being more acceptable to those who aren’t Christians.

Conclusion

It might seem like I’m in a rant kind of mood between this post and the one I wrote on the difference between clean and Christian fiction. But I promise I’m really not out to stir up controversy.

I just want us to think about things a little more carefully. When we use the inspirational rather than Christian, what does that say to the lost world? Doesn’t it tell them that at the very least we’re willing to back away from the name of Christ to please them?

While to some the difference between the two might just seem like a matter of semantics. in my humble estimation, it goes much, much deeper than that.

In short, inspiration is a poor substitute for the name of Christ.

As always, I welcome your comments. What are your thoughts on the term “inspirational” as it applies to fiction? Please feel free to disagree with me. I’d love to hear your thoughts.

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