Christian Scriptwriting Class: The Foundations of Faith-Based Storytelling

Presented by Dr. Layne McDonald, Ph.D., DBA
Website: www.laynemcdonald.com
IMDB Page: Dr. Layne McDonald IMDb
Contact: 901-216-3531 | Email: [email protected]

We're thrilled you're here! Today, you embark on a journey to merge your faith with the art of filmmaking. This workshop will equip you with the skills to create impactful short-form films that resonate deeply with audiences.

Why Focus on Short-Form Content?Short-form Christian content (2–5 minutes) is:

• Perfect for today’s fast-paced world.
• Powerful for spreading the Gospel quickly.
• Easily shareable on platforms like Instagram, YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and Facebook.

Benefits of Short-Form Video:

• High Engagement: 59% completion rate under 90 seconds (vs. 14% for 30+ min videos).
• Social Reach: Instagram and TikTok now exceed 1 billion active users monthly.
• Shareability: Short videos are shared 2.5x more than longer ones.
• Retention: Better memory and retention due to brevity and emotional resonance.
• Youth Impact: 60% of millennials and Gen Z consume daily video content on mobile.

Resource:

• Think with Google - Video Stats
• HubSpot Marketing Stats

Why We Write: Discovering Purpose in Christian FilmmakingChristian stories are modern-day parables. They teach. They heal. They reflect the Gospel in a way that resonates with today’s viewers.

Motivation Checklist:

• Reflect on your purpose.
• Identify core themes you want to communicate.
• Connect those themes to your spiritual mission.
• Consider your audience’s faith journey.
• Write a short purpose statement.
• Commit to one action aligning your creative work with God's calling.

Form your answers:

• "I create films to..."
• "I am called to share themes like..."

Identifying Your Story and AudienceTypes of Christian Stories:

• Modern-day parables
• Real-life testimonials
• Inspirational biopics
• Biblical retellings
• Allegories & moral tales

Genres:

• Drama, Documentary, Comedy, Historical
• Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Suspense, Musical, Animation

Niches:

• Faith-based comedies
• Inspirational drama
• Christian thrillers with moral dilemmas
• Youth-focused animated Bible tales

Audience Targets:

• Teens, Young Adults, Families, Church Groups
• Faith-based orgs, General Audience

Spiritual Needs:

• Seeking guidance
• Strengthening faith
• Learning biblical truths
• Exploring ethical dilemmas

Resource:

• Barna Group Faith Trends

Emotional Chemistry in Scriptwriting: Angels' Cocktail vs. Devil's BrewThe "Angels' Cocktail":

• Empathy, love, hope, trust (oxytocin, dopamine, serotonin)
• Uplifting, redemptive storytelling

Example Videos:

• Obama "Yes We Can" Speech: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fe751kMBwms
• Pixar's "Up" Opening: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2bk_9T482g
• The Pursuit of Happyness Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMOBlEcRuw8

The "Devil's Brew":

• Fear, anger, manipulation (cortisol, adrenaline)
• Sensationalism, toxic shock, unethical storytelling

Examples:

• Fear Mongering Ad Example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDqTBLZzAEc
• Horror Film Trailer (excessive emotional manipulation): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqUiNvHhG2I

Character Development Using Christian VirtuesKey Workshop Steps:

1. Create a Character Sketch: background, virtue, flaw, pivotal moment
2. Map Plot Using 3-Act or 7-Point Structure
3. Develop Conflict, Redemption Arc, and Resolution

Example Character: Sarah Thompson

• Virtue: Compassion
• Flaw: Self-doubt
• Plot Pivot: Finds spiritual renewal helping grieving student

Essential Scriptwriting Structures3-Act Structure

• Act I: Setup and inciting incident
• Act II: Conflict and growth
• Act III: Climax and resolution

7-Point Plot Model

• Hook
• Inciting Incident
• First Plot Point
• Midpoint
• Second Plot Point
• Climax
• Resolution

Resource:

• Writers Helping Writers - Plot Models

Scriptwriting Software:

• WriterDuet

Sample Script: "Simple Grace"FADE IN:

INT. KITCHEN – MORNING
SARAH prepares breakfast in a humble home. A bird chirps outside the window.

NARRATOR (V.O.)
In the ordinary, we find the extraordinary. God is present in the mundane, waiting to be noticed.

Key Formatting Elements:

• LOCATION (INT/EXT.)
• ACTION LINE
• CHARACTER NAME
• DIALOGUE
• PARENTHETICAL (for emotion or delivery cues)

Final Reflection Exercise

1. What biblical message is at the heart of your story?
2. How does your narrative demonstrate God’s love?
3. What spiritual value does your main character represent?
4. What ethical challenge do they overcome?
5. How does their journey deepen your audience’s faith?

YouTube Learning Playlist:

• How to Write Christian Scripts That Preach Without Preaching
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7P7U5DJ0t8
• Faith-Based Filmmaking Tips for Beginners
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOu_6i8qS4g
• Writing Short Christian Films with Big Impact
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Yr47VG_yTc

Get Involved

• Visit the Blog: www.laynemcdonald.com/blog
• Download Free Resources: Free Script Templates
• Join Our Email List for Weekly Creative Prompts
• Book Dr. Layne for Coaching or Guest Lectures: Contact Page