I have to write about unbiblical topics for corporate communications. Is that sinful?
From advertisements and entertainment to company memos and social media posts, we see unbiblical messages every day. A lot of the content we consume has been crafted by paid professionals. A graphic designer created the billboard that caught your eye on the way to work. Someone in an office put together the memo that just slid into your inbox. An author wrote the nonfiction book that sits on your nightstand.
As corporate culture pivots from once-mainstream Christian morals and ideals, your question will likely become more and more important.
Of course, there are instances in which it makes sense for Christians to write about unbiblical topics for the purpose of clarity, teaching, or general awareness. But in this article, I’ll assume you’re being asked to write about unbiblical topics in a way that promotes certain sins as aspirational ideals. Let me offer a few thoughts.
Uphold the Goals of the Christian Life
All Christians working in secular settings need to consider the role they play in bringing certain messages to fruition. You cannot fully separate yourself from the words you pen. While you may be responding to an assignment from your employer, you’re ultimately the one putting those words out into the world. And so you bear responsibility for what they say.
So let’s consider if your writing can exist in harmony with some of the foundational purposes of the Christian life.
1. Glorify God.
An oft-recited answer at the beginning of the Westminster Shorter Catechism states that “man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.” Does the work you do allow you to fulfill that purpose? Or does it hinder you? Is God glorified through your writing?
While you may be responding to an assignment from your employer, you’re ultimately the one putting those words out into the world.
Not all vocational writing will be explicitly faith-based. You may write mathematics textbooks, payroll policies, or the user manual that comes in the box with a new air fryer. Even the most mundane or seemingly unspiritual tasks can glorify God through our work ethic, our truth telling, and our service of clients and colleagues. In many jobs, we can “work heartily, as for the Lord” (Col. 3:23). But we can’t glorify God while creating content that works against his commands.
2. Advance his kingdom.
There’s much kingdom work to be done in the secular marketplace. But if you play any role in advancing messages that promote sin, you’re working against the kingdom of God. You may be causing others to stumble into sin (Mark 9:42), and their sin will separate them from God (Isa. 59:2).
3. Keep his commands.
We’re charged with keeping the commands of Scripture (2 Tim. 3:16–17), and the Bible isn’t silent regarding our communication:
“I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matt. 12:36–37)
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up.” (Eph. 4:29)
“Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!” (Ps. 141:3)
Knowing When to Leave (and How to Stay)
Until Jesus returns, we all live and labor in the presence of sin. Acknowledging that fact, we should carefully consider how we interact with communication that glorifies rebellion against God’s design. Sometimes we can be used in positive ways within secular work environments. There are also instances where it might be wisest to look for a different job.
As you move forward, consider your specific options. Do you have influence within your organization? Are you able to advocate for changing the nature of the messages put out by your team? You may be uniquely positioned to provide a different voice or perspective for your employer.
If you aren’t in a position of influence, consider how often you’re asked to write about topics that conflict with your beliefs. If it’s a one-time or rare occasion, you may have grounds to make a request based on your sincerely held religious beliefs. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 exists to protect religious liberties in the workplace. If an accommodation wouldn’t cause unreasonable hardship to your employer, you may have more options than you think. Could you opt out of this assignment but take on more work in another area?
Until Jesus returns, we all live and labor in the presence of sin.
If there are no available options, it might be time to look for other employment. As a Christian, you have the gift of the Holy Spirit (John 14:26). You posed your question because you may have felt unsettled when asked to write about certain topics. It’s possible the Spirit is creating some unease within you to nudge you away from a task or even a job.
Take time to consider your assignments and the ideas they promote. And as you do, prayerfully seek discernment to move forward in a way that allows you to glorify God, advance his kingdom, and keep his commands.
The Gospel Coalition