Does the Bible say anything about reading or writing fiction?

TL;DR:

It is not sinful to read or write fiction. The Bible includes fiction in the form of parables, which use story to teach truths.

The Bible does not explicitly condemn the reading or writing of fiction; rather, it demonstrates the use of fictional narratives, particularly through parables, to convey spiritual truths. Parables, like Nathan's story about the rich man and the poor man's lamb (2 Samuel 12:1–4) and Jesus’ teachings such as the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37), illustrate how storytelling can effectively communicate moral and spiritual lessons. Although fiction is not inherently sinful, the content of the fiction we read or write is important. The Bible encourages discernment in the content we engage with. Passages like Philippians 4:8 and Ephesians 4:29 guide believers to focus on what is true, honorable, and uplifting. While fiction is a valid form of expression, it should be edifying for both the reader and the writer and not lead us or others into sin. Ultimately, as art reflects God's beauty, our creative endeavors should aim to honor that reflection.

from the old testament

The most famous parable in the Old Testament is that of Nathan when he confronted David about his adultery with Bathsheba. In 2 Samuel 12:1–4, Nathan compared David with a rich man who stole a poor man's beloved lamb. David could see the injustice in the story when he couldn't see it in his own actions. He found spiritual truth through fiction.
The Bible records stories by Jotham (Judges 9:7–15) and Ezekiel (Ezekiel 17:1–8).

from the new testament

Jesus told more than thirty parables recorded in the Gospels, including the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:3–9), the parable of the good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37), and the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11–32), which were intended to teach valuable spiritual lessons to those willing to listen.

implications for today

These fictional stories in the Bible were presented as such and were generally used as illustrative educational tools to convey a deeper truth. Stories—whether fiction or fact—have a way of connecting not only with our minds but with our hearts. As such, they often have a shaping effect. All fiction is educational in some way, whether the author intends it or not. No fiction can be considered solely entertaining; something of the author's beliefs and worldview must come out. JRR Tolkien insisted that his books were not written to be religious allegory, but millions of Christians since would disagree. C. S. Lewis embraced allegory and gave unchurched people an understanding of Jesus and His interaction with His followers. Writing is a form of teaching, and teachers are held to a strict standard (James 3:1).

We can use these verses to guide us in the content of what we read or write:

Colossians 3:1–2: "If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."

Philippians 4:8: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."

Ephesians 4:29: "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear."

Ephesians 5:4: "Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving."

It is not inherently sinful to read or write fiction, but it is sinful to create or consume stories that dishonor God. This does not mean that reading or writing for entertainment is wrong. Rather, we should be mindful of how our creative expressions align with and reflect what is good and true. God, the ultimate Creator, designed art and beauty as reflections of His glory. As His image-bearers, our stories should reflect His character, uphold what is good, and honor Him in both purpose and impact. Even when there is darkness or despair portrayed in stories, because that is how life is, we should not be left in darkness or despair but instead be pointed toward truth, redemption, and hope. In all that we read and write, we should seek to honor Him, recognizing that stories have the power to shape hearts and minds toward what is true and glorifying to God.

understand

The Bible employs fiction, particularly parables, to convey spiritual truths and moral lessons.
Fiction is not inherently sinful.
The content of the fiction we read or write is what can make it sinful.

reflect

How do the parables in the Bible influence your understanding of the moral lessons you encounter in fiction?
How do you discern the content of the fiction you read or write to ensure it aligns with biblical principles and edifies yourself and others?
How can you reflect God's beauty through your own creative endeavors, whether in writing or other forms of art?

engage

What are some examples of modern fiction that effectively communicate spiritual truths or moral lessons?
How can we apply biblical principles of discernment (like those found in Philippians 4:8 and Ephesians 4:29) when choosing the fiction we consume?
How might our engagement with fiction—both as readers and writers—impact our spiritual growth and understanding of God?