Author: Aaron Armstrong
Located in: Nashville TN
Submitted: May 16, 2025
Tell us a little about yourself. From the professional and ministry side, for nearly 20 years, I've served the church as a writer, preacher, small group leader, and kids ministry leader (not necessarily in that order). I've also written several books, documentaries, and Bible studies.
Personally, I'm a Canadian who now calls the United States home, living in the Nashville area with my wife and teenage children. My wife and I both grew up in homes largely disconnected from Christianity. We came to faith in 2005 through some somewhat unusual circumstances that included me starting to read the Bible because I wanted to make fun of one of my good friends, before realizing that I actually had to take Jesus seriously. (It's a longer story than I have space to tell here.)
What was your motivation behind this project? I remember being a brand-new Christian and constantly asking questions. Because I didn't grow up with any significant connection to Christianity, I was a bit of a blank slate (aside from the confused ideas I had thanks to pop culture). So I didn't know what I didn't know, except that I wanted to know more. So I wanted to write this book for people like I was: people exploring or new to the faith who are trying to make sense of the big ideas behind it, and those who are committed believers but want to explore further.
What do you hope folks will gain from this project? I hope, first, that those who are exploring Christianity and read this book will have a greater understanding of what it is that Christians actually believe. Second, I hope that committed believers will develop a greater sense of wonder at the depth and beauty of what we believe, and this wonder will lead to a deepening of their delight in God.
How were you personally impacted by working on this project? As I wrote, I found myself challenged in my own thinking about the truths that define our faith - to see how my beliefs have grown, clarified, and (positively) changed over the last 20 years. This reflective aspect of writing was, in many respects, an opportunity to worship and give thanks for the work I've seen the Lord do in my own life since coming to faith.
Who are your influences, sources of inspiration or favorite authors / artists? As far as authors and inspirations are concerned, I have a great love for authors like Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, JRR Tolkien, Nick Hornby, Leif Enger, Michael Chabon, and so many other - brilliant storytellers whose work invites you into worlds filled with real people (even the fantastical ones).
Anything else you'd like readers / listeners to know: I hope this book helps you see the role doctrine plays in growing our sense of delight in Christ and encourages you to continue to explore these truths that shape our lives.
