Copyrighting The Holy Spirit
Dr. Stephen Phinney: Self-Publishing avoids the violation of copyrighting the Holy Spirit - frequently tempting believers to break the laws of humanity.
Did you know that most Bibles limit the amount of text you can copy and paste to 500 words?
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This restriction is supposedly in place to protect the integrity of the sacred text and respect the copyright laws that govern its distribution. While few, if any, honor this publication guideline, in a legal sense it is copywriting the Holy Spirit, while forcing believers to break the laws in place by the national copyright rules of engagement.
COPYRIGHTING THE HOLY SPIRIT
In my interviews with some of the top Christian publishing houses, I explored their perspectives on the concept of copyrighting the Holy Spirit and God's inspired words. These conversations revealed a “dear in the headlights” response. While they defended their emphasis to protect the text to prevent unauthorized alterations and ensure faithful translations, they also recognize that their view instigated readers to break the law. Only one leading publisher agreed with my premise that copyrighting the Holy Spirit was dangerously treading on tempting God and readers to break humanity’s laws.
Matthew 28:19-20
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Teaching the Word of God is a ordained responsibility, and there are serious consequences for neglecting or misrepresenting it. Here is a warning to consider:
"Beware of avoiding the teaching of God's Word. For it is written, 'My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge' (Hosea 4:6). By neglecting to share and teach the scriptures, we deny ourselves and others the spiritual nourishment and guidance necessary for a faithful and righteous life. The Apostle Paul admonishes, 'Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction' (2 Timothy 4:2). Failing to do so can lead to spiritual stagnation, a confused culture, and a departure from the truth. Remember, we are stewards of God's revelation, called to impart His Word over that of the laws of humanity, so that His word may reach and transform hearts everywhere.
What about publishing your Spirit inspired essays, and publications?
HERE IS HOW I DO IT
In standard publishing, a reader can quote up to 50 words from the author’s book without written permission from the publishing house. Sorry, that doesn’t cut it with me. I want every word available for advancing God’s message.
Yes, self-publishing still requires a copyright seal, however, by embracing self-publishing, I empower my readers with unrestricted access to my works, allowing them to share and pass forward the messages within. This approach ensures that the Holy Spirit’s words and ideas can reach a broader audience, advancing the words of the Gospel to inspire individuals committed to spreading knowledge and hope. Through self-publishing, I break down barriers, making it possible for anyone to engage with, learn from, and share the content freely, amplifying the impact of my mission.
Most writers pursue a large publisher to gain financial benefits and future book deals, while the publisher is responsible for promoting the book. Unless you own your own publishing house, like we do, believe it or not, you can be restricted to use your own material. That, to me, is a deal breaker.
I wouldn’t say we have mastered the art of self-publishing, but we are in the process of doing so. When it comes to the copyright laws, I will honor them. However, I will never settle for copyrighting the Holy Spirit.
Here Are Some Helpful Hints to Self-Publishing:
Create a Strong Online Presence:
Author Website: Design a professional website showcasing your book(s), biography, and blog updates.
Social Media: Engage with readers on platforms like Substack and other social media outlets.
Leverage Book Review Platforms:
Goodreads: Create an author profile and engage with the community.
Book Bloggers: Reach out to book bloggers for reviews and promotions.
Utilize Email Marketing:
Build a Mailing List: Collect email addresses from your website visitors and social media followers.
Send Newsletters: Regularly update your subscribers with book news, sneak peeks, and special offers.
Engage with Online Communities:
Reader Forums: Join reader forums like Substack's book communities and engage in discussions.
Book Clubs: Participate in online book clubs and offer to do virtual author visits.
Offer Promotions and Giveaways:
Discounts: Temporarily lower your book's price to attract new readers.
Free Copies: Host giveaways on social media or through your newsletter.
Media Bites: Produce short videos promoting your book. Our inhouse video production team helps authors produce media bits at low cost.
QR Codes: We have mastered the art of QR codes to promote books. Enter your book purchase page into a QR generator, print it on a business sized card, and distribute at all your events.
Broadcasts & Podcasts: This is a great way to get your book in front of listeners. Right now, a board member is working on an interview with Sean Hannity and myself regarding my book “This Preeminent Darkness.” Don’t neglect the smaller broadcast/podcast shows. Every opportunity produces more exposure.
Network with Other Authors:
Collaborations: Partner with other authors for joint promotions or anthology projects.
Author Events: Attend and participate in literary events, both online and in person.
Optimize Your Book Listing:
Metadata: Ensure your book's title, description, and keywords are optimized for search engines. Use “keywords” religiously.
Cover Design: Invest in a professional book cover that stands out. Again, our ministry designs book covers for other authors for a small donation. We want to help other authors develop “eye candy” for their books.
Seek Professional Reviews:
Editorial Reviews: Consider getting a professional review from a reputable source. I like to use other authors I know, get a quote from them, place it in my book or on a promotional Ad.
Book Awards: Enter your book into relevant book award competitions. While I rarely win first prize, it is good exposure and frequently puts my work before promoters.
Local Promotions:
Bookstores: Approach local bookstores for book signings or shelf space.
Libraries: Donate copies to libraries and offer to hold reading events.
Create Engaging Content:
Book Trailers: Produce a captivating book trailer to share online.
Blog Posts: Write blog posts related to your book's themes or genre.
Publish Chapters: Offer a short series using a couple chapters from your book on a platform like Substack, with a link to the book in your publication.
Remember, promotion is an ongoing process. Consistency and genuine engagement with your audience are key to building a loyal readership. Substack is a perfect venue to do this!
If you decide to go the route of self-publishing, remember, allow your readers to advance what you have been led by the Spirit to write.
Matthew 10:8 - "Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give."
2 Corinthians 9:7 - "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
In closing, the conviction to self-publish is rooted in a spiritual sense of purpose and calling.
By taking this path, you honor God through your dedication to sharing His message without barriers, allowing His Word to reach and transform lives freely. Your commitment to self-publishing not only grants your readers the gift of unrestricted access but also empowers them to share and bless others with the indwelling Truth you've so faithfully conveyed. In this way, your work becomes a LIFE of light, spreading hope and inspiration in a world that desperately needs the Holy Spirit’s inspirations through you.