Unique Theology: A Bold, Redemptive Vision

 

Authenticity in Storytelling

 

Spencer Folmar’s theology is deeply rooted in grace, redemption,

and the transformative power of faith. His approach to faith is

neither sugarcoated nor formulaic, rejecting sanitized, surface

level storytelling often found in traditional faith-based media.

Instead, he embraces a hard-hitting, unfiltered portrayal of sin,

brokenness, and redemption, believing that truthful storytelling

is essential to communicating the Gospel. His films reflect a strong

conviction that grace shines brightest against the backdrop of

real struggle, echoing the biblical narratives where deeply

flawed individuals encounter divine mercy.

 

Faith in the Midst of Brokenness

 

At the core of Spencer’s theology is the belief that Christian art should not avoid the realities of a fallen world. He rejects the notion that faith-based films must be devoid of hardship, struggle, or even intense emotion. Instead, he looks to Scripture itself, where stories of violence, betrayal, addiction, and redemption fill the pages—from King David’s moral failures to Paul’s transformation from persecutor to apostle. Spencer sees storytelling as a means of engaging with culture authentically, rather than creating isolated, “safe” Christian content that only preaches to the choir. His films are not merely meant to entertain but to challenge, convict, and inspire viewers to wrestle with deep spiritual truths.

 

Sovereignty and Suffering

 

Another defining aspect of Spencer’s theology is his understanding of God’s presence in the midst of suffering. Having experienced both great joy and personal loss, including the passing of his second daughter, Mary Claire, Spencer has a theological perspective that does not ignore the pain of life but instead acknowledges that God is present in both the mountaintops and the valleys. His films do not offer easy answers or cliché resolutions but instead reflect the tension between grief and hope, doubt and faith, brokenness and restoration. His stories reflect a belief that transformation is ultimately God’s work, not man’s effort, and that even in darkness, light can break through.

 

The Power of Story to Liberate

 

This theological framework informs his filmmaking philosophy at Hard Faith Films,

where he tells stories of liberation and redemption, not through moralistic preaching

but through compelling, honest narratives that allow audiences to experience

truth organically. His work is often compared to the parables of Jesus, which did not

shy away from the harsh realities of sin yet always pointed toward a greater

hope. Whether tackling addiction (Shooting Heroin), generational trauma

(Generational Sins), or selflessness in the midst of suffering  (Saint Nick of Bethlehem),

Spencer’s films reflect a theology that meets people where they are—in their mess,

in their struggles while pointing them toward the transforming power of grace.

 

Telling Stories That Liberate

 

Above all, Spencer believes in Telling Stories That Liberate—stories that free people from deception, addiction, despair, and falsehood, guiding them toward truth, redemption, and ultimately, Christ. His theology is not one of avoidance but engagement, creating films that speak to both the sinner and the saint, drawing them into a deeper understanding of God’s grace, justice, and love. Folmar's two greatest passions are film and theology and he is always looking at ways to innovatively combine these callings. Spencer has written numerous books on the subject matter and will continue to publish theological musings on his various websites and published posts. 

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