Is it possible to be scared―in a good way?

(Finding God in Pop Culture series)

Theologian and psychological scientist Kutter Callaway explores the surprising relationship between fear, horror, and Christian faith. Drawing from film, psychology, and theology, he engages popular horror narratives to ask what our deepest fears reveal about what we love, long for, and believe. According to Callaway, Christian life isn’t about eliminating fear, it’s about redirecting it. Be Afraid offers a fresh, often funny, and deeply honest theological reflection on the shared fears and anxieties of our culture.

I applaud this deep dive into…horror, showing us how thoughtful engagement with this genre can deepen our lives, helping grow our empathy and compassion for others. That's certainly nothing to be afraid of. -- Scott Teems, writer of Halloween Kills and Insidious: The Red Door

Dr. Kutter Callaway is the William K. Brehm Chair of Worship, Theology, and the Arts, as well as associate dean of the Center for Advanced Theological Studies, and associate professor of theology and culture at Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena. He writes and speaks on the interaction between theology and culture—particularly film, television, and online media—in both academic and popular forums.

Callaway holds PhDs from Fuller in theology and in psychological science. He has written and contributed to several books, including Theology for Psychology and Counseling: An Invitation to Holistic Christian Practice, Techno-Sapiens in a Networked Era: Becoming Digital Neighbors, coauthored with Fuller Associate Professor Ryan Bolger; The Aesthetics of Atheism: Theology and Imagination in Contemporary Culture and Deep Focus: Film and Theology in Dialogue.

Callaway co-chairs the Religion, Film, and Visual Culture group for the American Academy of Religion. He is ordained as a Baptist minister and spent many years in pastoral ministry prior to coming to Fuller.