Peter Pappas is an unconventional writer who prefers writing to reading. His published works include a popular book on résumé writing and job hunting and a range of multimedia training courses that have been sold internationally.
He has also ventured into screenwriting, with his dramatic screenplay receiving favorable reviews from DreamWorks, Paramount Classics, and Miramax, although it was not produced. More recently, Peter has been writing and publishing original Christian praise and worship songs on his YouTube channel Peter L Pappas Ministries.
FF: What was the inspiration behind Beyond Sudden Death?
My goal was to write an entertaining, yet compelling and thought-provoking, story that defends the truth of the Holy Bible, contrasts it with false religions, and clearly presents the gospel of Jesus Christ.
FF: Ella explores other faiths and religions in her search for the truth. How did researching other religions strengthen your belief that Christianity is true?
Beyond Sudden Death required an enormous amount of research, which at times overwhelmed me. I found that the evidence for Christianity is abundant and compelling, especially when compared with man-made religions that diminish the person of Jesus Christ and obscure the intolerable consequences of sin.
FF: Why is this such an important message to share in today’s society?
We have a spiritual enemy who seeks to destroy God’s creation. Seekers, those who have been hurt by false religions, and skeptics need to know that God exists and that Jesus Christ desires to give them eternal life. Christians also need to be equipped to defend their faith effectively and respectfully before others, whom God loves just as deeply.
FF: Have you ever had a near-death experience? How did that challenge or strengthen your faith?
No, I haven’t had a near-death experience, but I know two people who have. The scary near-death experience of the main character is based on a blend of real-life accounts that I researched.
My research has made it even clearer to me that we are comprised of body, soul, and spirit. This understanding aligns closely with Scripture, including the warning that Satan can appear as an angel of light. The distinction between human consciousness and the physical brain is fascinating.
FF: Were there any Bible verses or passages that were particularly impactful to you when writing Beyond Sudden Death?
Oh, so many! More than forty Bible verses and passages are quoted or referenced in the novel. Among the key passages are those that proclaim Jesus as Almighty God (John 1:1), affirm that God preserves His Word (Mark 13:31), and teach that salvation is God’s gift, received by grace and not by good works (Ephesians 2:8–9).
FF: Why do you think storytelling is such a powerful way to share truth?
A captivating story, told in a natural and conversational way, provides a non-threatening opportunity to share the Good News with others. God has placed within every person a spiritual need that only He can satisfy. Novels firmly grounded in the Word of God can be used to accomplish His purposes (Isaiah 55:11).
FF: What can readers expect from you next?
I’ve also written a companion resource for Beyond Sudden Death entitled Resource Booklet for Teachers and Group Leaders. It contains more than 100 discussion and short-answer questions designed to facilitate meaningful conversations and assess knowledge and understanding.
