How do you write eye-catching Christian articles? The same way you write any article. A good writer writes well, if he or she follows the rules of good writing. Of course a good dose of talent doesn't hurt either, but talent without the bones of good grammar, punctuation, etc., can lie buried beneath thousands of other articles unread and unappreciated.
Title:
When browsing Christian articles, the first thing to catch the eye is a well-written title. Writers do not always have a say in the article title, but those who look for answers among Christian articles will probably have their eye caught by something in the title that speaks to a need or a passion in their life. The grieving might stop to browse an article under the title "How to move beyond grief"; a person concerned about a suicidal friend might peruse an article titled "How you can help your suicidal friend". Whether they have deep concerns such as these or seek more knowledge about Christianity, the first thing they see, the title, will either catch them or make them pass on your article.
Introduction:
After the title, the opening sentence and first paragraph capture the reader's attention or send them on to another article. An interesting or unusual first line will hook the reader into reading the first paragraph. The first paragraph often informs a reader of the intent of the article and can cause an article to sink or swim in the eyes of the reader. If the introductory paragraph pulls them in, informs them, or catches them by surprise, readers will often then read the entire article because they see the value of the article for their particular needs.
Pertinence:
A writer must ask him or herself a few questions before beginning to write an article. Is this information pertinent to Christians today? Do many well-written articles already exist on the topic? Do you have anything new or better to add? Do you have enough knowledge (or can you find it) to do the subject well? Do I have enough personal experience to connect with the reader of the subject? These questions should give an idea of the type of questions a writer should ask to make sure he or she can do justice to the subject.
Substance:
Christianity has some very deep subjects. It's important to thoroughly research and understand the topic before attempting to write about it. Real Christians can spot a poser, or someone who speaks outside his or her depth of understanding. For the Christian, especially when it comes to certain subjects, a good biblical foundation makes the difference between a good article and a not so good one. Some subjects may allow for a diversity of view, but basic subjects, considered foundational to Christianity, do not. In other words, study the subject well before writing about it if you want to catch and keep they eye of your readers. If you give a different view, be prepared to defend it well.
Conclusion:
Once the reader gets this far, it's probably a good bet that he or she found your article intriguing enough to read it. Don't let him or her down by writing a mediocre conclusion. Review main points, share how this subject applies to the everyday life, or suggest articles for further study, but whatever you do, don't leave your reader hanging. The conclusion of a paragraph allows the writer to pull it all together and put it in perspective. A creative conclusion will leave your reader wanting to pursue more of your articles and earn you a reputation as a good Christian writer.
Above all, if you want to write eye-catching Christian articles, give it your unique slant. It is their unique ability with words that boosts articles by such greats as Max Lucado and others to super-star status. Start with a good title and end with a great conclusion. Add head knowledge, heart knowledge and biblical knowledge with a good dose of your unique gifts and personality. Mix it all together, and you, too can soon be writing Christian articles that draw readers in and keep them coming back for more.