Writing for LifeWay

We have had requests from recipients of Career Connections about a particular area that they would like to learn more about.  One person has said that, “writing is a passion for me.”  I know that there are many aspiring writers in our audience so I hope this article will share insight to what LifeWay’s Editorial Teams look for when reviewing information from outside writers.

LifeWay is a ministry as well as a business so there are other requirements that we look at. A person who writes Sunday School curriculum or magazine articles for LifeWay must:
• Have accepted Jesus Christ as personal Savior and live a committed Christian lifestyle
• Have writing experience (could be other types of writing such as magazine, newspaper, or newsletter articles)
• Be active in a Southern Baptist church and affirm basic Christian beliefs as set forth in the Baptist Faith & Message
• Write to support LifeWay’s theological publishing position that reflects conservative, evangelical doctrinal views in Scripture interpretation
• Consistently receive favorable recommendations on his/her faith, church participation, and support of SBC entities

To qualify as a writer, applicants must have significant knowledge and understanding of basic English, including grammar, style, and structure. It always helps if applicants have writing experience, especially in the type of writing for which they are applying. A strong educational background is mandatory. An academic degree, seminary or theological training that supports the field for which they would like to write is a plus.

Questions to Consider When Writing Articles
• Does the article contain proper spelling, punctuation, sentence structure, paragraphing, and word usage?  Do thoughts flow in an organized manner?  Are words chosen carefully and used in a memorable way?
• Write with a passion.  Does the writer seem to write as a friend?  Would you want to spend time with this writer?  Is the reader left feeling encouraged?  Does the reader come away with new understanding of the key passage?
• As the writer do you make an insightful point?  Is it compelling?  Does it contain principles that would stand the test of time?
• Ability to relate biblical content to contemporary living.  To what extent does the article indicate a thorough knowledge of the text, context, and meaning of the words?  Is the context explained?  Does the reader come away with new understanding of the key passage?

There are many things to think about if you would like to write for one of our publications.  We hope that some of the information shared here will help you get off to a good start.  You can log on to http://www.lifeway.com/people if you believe you would be interested in learning more about this process.

From time to time we will have full-time editorial positions located in Nashville, Tennessee.  If you are interested in learning more about the opportunities that we have log on to www.lifeway.jobs.

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