Let me be honest with you.
Getting a faith-based book published is one of the most spiritually meaningful and practically frustrating things a Christian author will ever attempt. I know because I’ve been in the trenches of the publishing world long enough to have seen brilliant, God-given messages get rejected by gatekeepers who didn’t understand the urgency of the message or the author’s calling.
There’s a line in Romans 12 that has always stuck with me: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” I think about that verse a lot when I talk with Christian authors who are wrestling with the traditional publishing industry. The pattern of the world says you need an agent, then a proposal, then six months of silence, then a form letter rejection. The pattern of the world says your book, the one God put on your heart, needs to pass through a dozen gatekeepers before it ever reaches the person who needs it most.
That’s not the only path. But we’ll get to that.
First, let’s talk about the traditional Christian publishers – the ones that have been doing this for decades, some for over a century. They are legitimate, they have real reach, and for some authors, partnering with them is absolutely the right call.
I work at selfpublishing.com, and we’ve helped hundreds of Christian authors learn how to publish their books. That means I get to see both sides: the authors who found the right traditional home for their message, and the ones who waited years in the traditional publishing queue only to eventually self-publish and finally feel free.
This guide is designed to give you the full picture. Here are the best Christian publishers operating in 2026, what each one is looking for, and an honest look at what working with them actually means for you and your book.
What makes a great Christian publisher?
Before we dive into the list, it’s worth asking the question most guides skip: what are you actually looking for in a publisher?
A great Christian publisher should align with your theological convictions, have demonstrable reach into your intended readership, and be transparent about the royalty structure and rights you’ll be signing over.
These aren’t small considerations.
Once you sign a traditional publishing contract, you typically give up a significant amount of creative control over the title, the cover, the editing direction, and sometimes even the marketing approach.
That’s not a reason to avoid traditional publishers. It’s a reason to go in with your eyes open.
Here’s a practical checklist of what to look for in any Christian publisher:
- Do they have a proven track record with books similar to yours in message and audience?
- Are they transparent about royalty rates and rights ownership?
- Do they accept unsolicited manuscripts, or do you need an agent?
- Does their theological orientation align with your own?
- What is their typical timeline from acceptance to publication?
With that foundation in place, let’s look at the publishers.
1. Abingdon Press
Abingdon Press has been around for over two centuries, which means they’ve been publishing Christian books since before the United States was a fully formed nation. That’s a remarkable legacy. They’re a division of The United Methodist Publishing House, but you don’t need to be Methodist to submit your work.
What I appreciate about Abingdon is their genuine commitment to reaching across denominational lines. They’re not trying to serve a narrow theological niche; they’re trying to inspire Christians from many different backgrounds to think more deeply about their faith.
How to submit: They want a book summary, full outline, intended audience description, your existing platform details, thoughts on marketing, and two sample chapters (including the opening chapter).
2. B and H Publishing
B and H Publishing are Christian publishers that are the publishing arm of LifeWay Christian Resources. Their author roster reflects a genuine commitment to diverse evangelical voices. Authors like Priscilla Shirer, Russell Moore, and Jackie Hill Perry have found a home here.
The mission is straightforward: books that help readers cultivate a stronger, lifelong relationship with Jesus Christ.
How to submit: B&H is not open to unsolicited manuscripts. You need an agent or a direct relationship with one of their existing authors. If you’re serious about B&H, investing in a literary agent first is the practical path forward.
3. Baker Books
Baker Books is one imprint of the Baker Publishing Group. These Christian publishers intend to reach lay Christians through books such as Praying Women by Sheila Walsh, and also provide resources to pastors and church leaders.
At this time the Baker Books imprint is not able to accept unsolicited manuscripts from authors. However, if you have a literary agent, Baker Books is willing to liaise with them.
How to submit: Baker Books doesn’t accept unsolicited manuscripts directly, but they’ll work with agents and they do suggest connecting at writers’ conferences or using the Christian Book Proposals service as an intermediary.
4. Baylor University Press
Baylor University Press has a prestigious track record as the publishing arm of Baylor University – dating back to 1897. Unsurprisingly, the focus for Baylor University Press is on academic faith-based books, either solely focused on religion or exploring the intersection between religion and other academic disciplines.
It might be surprising to learn that such prestigious Christian publishers are willing to accept submissions, although the criteria is a lot stricter than at some other Christian publishers. Authors are encouraged to reach out to Baylor University Press before submitting a proposal to form an initial relationship.
How to submit: Reach out before submitting. Build the relationship first, then follow their proposal guidelines carefully.
5. Beaming Books
Beaming Books are Christian publishers that aim to serve younger Christians through children’s books. Topics include learning about faith but also about living positively (such as being kind and building self-esteem).
If you’re writing children’s books with a Christian or broadly spiritual message, Beaming Books is one of the strongest homes you’ll find right now.
How to submit: Watch their website for open submission calls. If you have an agent, they’re always willing to hear from you.
6. Bethany House
Bethany House has over fifty years of experience publishing bestselling Christian fiction, and they’re part of Baker Publishing Group. They publish more than 75 titles a year and have established an impressive track record in Christian romance, historical fiction, devotionals, and family-focused nonfiction.
How to submit: Bethany House isn’t accepting unsolicited manuscripts at this time. Your options are an agent, a writers’ conference connection, or the Christian Book Proposals liaison service.
7. Broadleaf Books
Broadleaf Books deserves a spot on any serious list of Christian publishers. This imprint of Augsburg Fortress has carved out a unique niche publishing culturally engaged, justice-oriented Christian books – the kind that bring a faith perspective to the pressing questions of the day.
In 2026, they launched a new partnership with Sojourners Magazine, which signals their commitment to being at the intersection of faith and public life.
If your book grapples with real-world issues through a Christian lens (race, justice, politics, culture) Broadleaf is worth serious consideration.
How to submit: Check their website for current submission guidelines.
8. Chalice Press
Chalice Press is known for its innovative approach to Christian publishing, blending contemporary issues with timeless spiritual values. Its list of titles often reflects a commitment to engaging modern readers with fresh perspectives on traditional faith themes.
How to submit: Chalice Press is open to unsolicited manuscripts. Review their submission instructions on the website before sending.
9. Chosen
Chosen is the first imprint of the Baker Publishing Group featured on this list that is currently accepting proposals. The stated mission of Chosen is to share well-crafted books based on the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
To submit your book to Chosen, take some time to browse their existing books and make sure yours is a good fit for these Christian publishers. After that, you can fill out a proposal form.
How to submit: Chosen is currently accepting proposals. Browse their existing catalog first to make sure your book is a genuine fit, then fill out their proposal form. You can contact their editorial team with questions before submitting.
10. CKN Christian Publishing
The CKN Christian Publishing company started out firmly in the indie author world, originally providing news and special offers relating to Christian eBooks on the Kindle platform. Today, CKN has evolved to act as Christian publishers of fresh Christian work.
How to submit: CKN accepts unsolicited manuscripts and is particularly interested in authors with a back catalog of existing work. First-time authors are also welcome.
11. Concordia Publishing House
Unlike some of the other Christian publishers in this guide, Concordia Publishing House has a strong denominational focus, as the company is the publishing arm of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod.
How to submit: They’re not accepting unsolicited manuscripts at this time, but author-represented submissions are welcome.
12. Covenant Books
Covenant Books has quietly become one of the more prolific Christian publishers in North America, having helped more than 20,000 authors publish their books. Based in South Carolina, they publish both Christian-themed and general works, provided the content doesn’t conflict with Christian values.
Their process is author-friendly and transparent: you submit, they review, and they’ll let you know within a few business days whether they want to proceed.
How to submit: Covenant Books accepts unsolicited manuscripts. They encourage a quick initial conversation with an acquisitions agent before you send a full manuscript.
13. Crosslink Publishing
Crosslink Publishing is one of the most indie-author-aligned publishers on this entire list. They’re members of both the Independent Book Publishers Association and the Christian Indie Publishing Association, and their distribution network gives their authors genuine reach.
How to submit: Indie authors can submit manuscripts directly. Note that Crosslink works exclusively with North American authors, books must be between 12,000 and 60,000 words, and they’re not interested in picture books, poetry, or autobiographies.
14. Crossway
Crossway was founded back in 1938 and is a not-for-profit ministry that aims to spread the word of the Gospel through books and tracts. Crossway Books was founded in 1979 under the leadership of one of the sons of the original Crossway founders.
How to submit: Authors can submit proposals or full manuscripts, but send an initial email query first. Crossway is not interested in fiction, end-time prophecy books, or personal experience narratives.
15. Dove Christian Publishers
Dove Christian Publishers used to go by the name Conquest Publishers. The company has roots going back to 1998 but first started publishing seriously in 2006. Dove’s stated mission is to glorify Jesus Christ while entertaining, edifying, and encouraging readers.
How to submit: You’ll need a social media platform or email list of at least 500 people to submit your work.
16. Eerdmans Publishing
Eerdmans has been operating out of Michigan since 1911, and they’ve built a reputation for publishing the widest possible spectrum of thoughtful Christian writing across denominations and philosophical traditions. This is a publisher that takes ideas seriously.
How to submit: Eerdmans accepts submissions, either a full manuscript or one to two sample chapters. They aim to respond within eight weeks.
17. Enclave Publishing
Enclave Publishing is an example of the superb diversity that exists within the Christian Publishing industry, as it focuses exclusively on Christian fantasy and science fiction books. Enclave is a fine example of how Christian publishers can cover any genre or readership, not just what most people might imagine a faith-based book to be.
How to submit: Authors are welcome to submit their work to Enclave Publishing, provided that it falls within the fantasy or science fiction genres and is in line with an evangelical Christian worldview. You can check our list of book genres and subgenres if you aren’t sure if your book fits the bill. Manuscripts need to be between 75,000 and 140,000 words in length.
18. Faithwords
Faithwords is an imprint of one of the world’s biggest book publishing companies, as it falls under the umbrella of the Hachette Book Group. They have published work from some of the biggest names in all of contemporary Christian thought, including Joel Osteen.
How to submit: Like all imprints of Hachette, Faithwords is unwilling to consider unsolicited manuscripts. However, authors with an agent are more than welcome to get in touch.
19. Flyaway Books
Flyaway Books is one of the newer Christian publishers on our list. The imprint is affiliated with Westminster John Knox Press (WJK). Flyaway Books publishes picture books that retell religious stories in new ways and reflect themes of diversity, inclusivity, compassion, social justice, and care for humanity and the environment.
How to submit: Flyaway Books will consider submissions from authors, but they only publish children’s picture books. You may send them your complete manuscript or book dummy.
20. Gilead Books Publishing
Gilead Books are not-for-profit Christian publishers that have been operating since 2007. They state that their focus is on first-time authors who may have had a hard time getting published elsewhere.
How to submit: They’re selective (only working with a small percentage of manuscripts received) but they are open to new voices.
21. Herald Press
Herald Press are Christian publishers focused on providing books in line with the Anabaptist school of thought, examples of which are Mennonites and Amish denominations. Herald is an arm of MennoMedia which is in turn owned by the Mennonite Church USA.
How to submit: Submit a one-page book summary (not a full manuscript), chapter list with descriptions, the first full chapter, one additional chapter of your choice, your resume, and a note on which Bible translation you used.
22. Harvest House Publishers
Harvest House Publishers started back in 1974 with only five titles. The company aims to glorify God by providing high-quality books that are in line with Biblical values. Harvest House offers both fiction and nonfiction, as well as kids’ books.
How to submit: At this time, Harvest House is not accepting unsolicited manuscripts from unagented authors. However, like many of the other publishers in this guide, they suggest authors go through the Christian Book Proposals liaison service.
23. Ignatius Press
Ignatius Press has its roots in the 1970s when Father Joseph Fessio came back to the United States after studying theology in Europe. Today, Ignatius is a publisher of a mix of fiction, nonfiction, and kids’ books that are in line with the doctrine of the Catholic Church.
How to submit: If you’re interested in having your work published by Ignatius Press, the company is willing to accept unsolicited manuscripts. Authors are required to send in a hard copy as well as an electronic copy of their work. Ignatius is not interested in receiving poetry, prayer books, or academic theses. Due to the large volume of submissions, it may take several months for authors to receive a reply from Ignatius Press.
24. Inscript Books
Inscript Books is associated with Dove Christian Publishers and is intended for authors lacking the platform requirements to publish with Dove. Inscript charges authors to publish their books, but insists it isn’t a vanity press due to having strict standards regarding both book quality and compatibility with Christian values.
How to submit: If you are interested in having your book published through Inscript Publishing, you need to make sure your book is at least 32,000 words long and is suitable for a Christian audience. Both fiction and nonfiction Christian books are welcomed by Inscript.
25. InterVarsity Press
InterVarsity Press has been publishing for over 70 years as an extension of the InterVarsity Christian Fellowship movement. In 2026, they’re expanding significantly, launching IVP Español from scratch, building a new digital platform for families, and committing to a multi-year project to translate the First Nations Version of the Old Testament. They’re a publisher that thinks in decades, not quarters.
How to submit: IVP is not open to unsolicited manuscripts, but existing relationships with their editors can open the door. All books should align with the InterVarsity Christian Fellowship’s doctrinal statement.
26. Kharis Publishing
Kharis Publishing describes itself as an inspirational and faith publisher that accepts queries from first-time and unpublished authors. They are based in the Greater Chicago area and have a large number of titles aligned with Christian theology.
How to submit: Kharis Publishing proudly states they accept unsolicited manuscripts and are particularly willing to work with under-represented authors such as women and authors of color. They publish both nonfiction and fiction. Authors should send an initial query, and if the Kharis Publishing team is interested, they will request a full manuscript.
27. Kregel Publications
Kregel Publications entered the world of Christian publishers back in 1949 with the mission of sharing solidly evangelical works with the world. Today, the company states that it wishes to maximize the impact of quality, life-changing Christian resources that are based on Biblical teachings.
How to submit: At this time, Kregel does not accept unsolicited manuscripts directly. If you are represented by a professional literary agent, you are welcome to submit your work to Kregel.
28. Light & Life Publishing
Light & Life Publishing are Christian publishers that began in 1966. Over time, they have become a major Orthodox Christian publishing company that has published over 200 titles. They also print booklets and pamphlets to spread the word of Father Anthony M. Coniaris.
How to submit: They don’t state exactly what type of manuscripts they are willing to receive on their website, but if you have an Orthodox Christian book, you should contact them about the possibility of publishing.
29. Lighthouse Christian Publishing
Although Lighthouse Christian Publishing states they are a Christian publishing company, they are also willing to publish books without an explicitly Christian message (as long as they don’t go against Christian values). Lighthouse publishes a wide range of different book types, from fiction to works on health and science.
How to submit: At this time, Lighthouse Christian Publishing doesn’t explicitly state whether they are willing to receive and consider manuscripts on an unsolicited basis, but authors can reach out to Lighthouse via their online contact page.
30. Moody Publishers
Moody Publishers is one of the more famous names on this list, having been major Christian publishers of Bibles and other Christian works since being founded in 1894. Moody ensures that all profits made from its publishing division are funneled back to The Moody Bible Institute, which aims to help prepare Christians for ministry.
How to submit: At this time, Moody is unwilling to consider unsolicited manuscripts. However, if you have a professional literary agent, or you’ve worked with Moody in the past, they may be willing to consider your work.
Moody Publishers are also willing to consider work from associates of a Moody Bible Institute Ministry, or an author who has made personal contact at a writers’ conference.
31. Orbis Books
Orbis Books has been a leader in religious publishing since 1970. These Christian publishers accept a wide range of books on prayer, spirituality, Catholic life, theology, mission, and current affairs.
How to submit: Authors may submit their work to Orbis Books with a cover letter, sample chapter, table of contents, and information on your previous experience/work. They take six to eight weeks to reply.
32. Paraclete Press
Paraclete Press are Christian publishers who aim to communicate beauty and truth through the arts to all corners of the world. Their books reflect the full range of Christian thought and denomination, from Protestant to Catholic and Orthodox.
How to submit: Paraclete Press welcomes submissions from authors. Be sure to follow their guidelines on the type of book proposal they want to receive. At this time, Paraclete have stated they are not interested in receiving proposals related to cookbooks, poetry, current events and politics, sermons, pop psychology, or Bible commentaries.
33. Paulist Press
Paulist Press has been sharing their work since 1865 and focuses on books that further Catholic thought. The company doesn’t focus solely on Catholic writing – they also aim to encourage interfaith dialogue and the sharing of perspectives that transcend denominational boundaries.
How to submit: At this time, new authors can submit their work to Paulist Press. Instead of sending a full manuscript, the company wishes to receive a book proposal that is in line with their guidelines.
Specific guidelines exist depending on whether you’re sending an academic, children’s, popular, or professional Christian book. Your submission should include 15-25 sample pages. The company is not interested in receiving fiction, memoirs, or poetry.
34. Revell
Revell is part of the Baker Publishing Group, like several other Christian publishers on this list. Revell has a simply stated mission – to offer practical books for everyday life. All of Revell’s titles are in line with the company’s core values of relevance, integrity, and excellence.
How to submit: Like several, although not all, of the Baker Publishing Group imprints, Revell is not accepting unsolicited manuscripts at this time. Instead, Revell suggests that writers make use of the Christian Book Proposals service.
If you’re interested in Revell, and are represented by an agent, they will be willing to consider your work. You can also form a relationship with them at a writers’ conference.
35. TAN Books
TAN Books is celebrated for its commitment to preserving and reissuing classic Christian texts while also publishing new works that adhere to traditional Christian values. Its offerings are known for their doctrinal soundness and literary quality, appealing to readers who value historical as well as contemporary perspectives.
How to submit: According to the official website, TAN Books maintains a selective approach to manuscript submissions. Authors interested in submitting their work should consult the online submission guidelines to understand the criteria and process required for consideration.
36. The Crossroad Publishing Company
The Crossroad Publishing Company traces its roots back to 1798, as it has grown from the heritage of the publishing house of Herder. Today, The Crossroad Publishing Company aims to share books that are in line with Judeo-Christian values with a focus on Catholic thought.
How to submit: Authors are welcome to submit unsolicited manuscripts and book proposals to The Crossroad Publishing Company. Proposals to these Christian publishers should include either a full manuscript or one which is mostly finished. You should submit your work via email only and expect a response within six to eight weeks on average.
37. The Upper Room
The Upper Room describes itself as a global ministry that exists to support the spiritual life of Christians. Originally providing a daily devotional, The Upper Room today provides a series of books and articles aligned with its Christian mission.
How to submit: There is no specific information given at this time on the type of work that The Upper Room is looking to receive. However, authors are welcome to reach out and contact The Upper Room to establish a future publishing relationship.
38. Thomas Nelson
Thomas Nelson is one of the most famous names found in this entire guide of Christian publishers, and they have a serious level of prestige when it comes to publishing Christian books. Thomas Nelson has published books by some of the biggest names out there, including Billy Graham and Dave Ramsey.
How to submit: At this time, Thomas Nelson is not willing to consider unsolicited submissions. However, the company encourages readers to check out the self-publishing imprints of Zondervan (listed later in our guide).
39. Twenty-Third Publications
Twenty-Third Publications has been supporting Catholic parish leaders as Christian publishers for over fifty years. They offer books, booklets, seasonal devotionals, and catechetical materials for all ages to spread the teachings of the Catholic faith.
How to submit: Twenty-Third Publications accepts submissions of Catholic faith-based books. They require a brief overview of your book and your audience, the book’s introduction, a summary of each chapter, and one or two sample chapters.
40. Tyndale House
Tyndale House are Christian publishers that publishes a full range of Christian books, from various Bibles to works of nonfiction and fiction, including the incredibly successful Left Behind series by Jerry Jenkins. Tyndale states that they aim to meet the physical and spiritual needs of people around the world.
How to submit: Tyndale House is unwilling to accept unsolicited manuscripts from authors at this time. However, if you are represented by a literary agent, Tyndale is willing to consider your work. You can also have your manuscript considered for publication if it is introduced to the company by one of their existing authors, or by a person of prominence within the industry of Christian publishers.
41. WaterBrook and Multnomah
WaterBrook and Multnomah are the flagship Christian imprints of Penguin Random House — the largest trade publisher in the world. In 2026, WaterBrook is celebrating its 30th anniversary. PRH Christian has also launched a new digital platform, Grace Corner, as a direct-to-consumer hub for faith content.
This is about as much publishing muscle as you can get in Christian publishing.
How to submit: WaterBrook and Multnomah do not accept unsolicited manuscripts. They have a submission form, but agent representation is the realistic path.
42. WestBow Press
WestBow Press is recognized for empowering Christian authors by offering a supportive platform that welcomes a broad range of voices and stories from within the faith community. Its diverse catalog includes memoirs, theological works, and inspirational titles that resonate with contemporary readers.
How to submit: The publisher explicitly welcomes unsolicited manuscripts and provides comprehensive submission guidelines on its website. Prospective authors are encouraged to review these instructions carefully to ensure that their proposals align with WestBow Press’s editorial standards before submitting.
43. Westminster John Knox Press
Westminster John Knox Press has a history of publishing Christian books dating back to 1838. Although the company is part of the Presbyterian Publishing Corporation, it publishes titles that are outside of the Presbyterian way of thinking. Explicitly Presbyterian books are offered under the Geneva Press imprint.
How to submit: Authors can submit their work for consideration to Westminster John Knox Press. These Christian publishers are looking for books aligned with mainstream Protestant thought, while Presbyterian books might be considered for Geneva Press.
WJK Press prefers to receive submissions electronically and states that they take between eight to twelve weeks on average to review. They are not interested in receiving fiction, memoirs, or poetry.
44. Whitaker House
Whitaker House is committed to producing inspirational Christian literature that both educates and uplifts its readers. With a catalog that spans topics from spirituality and devotional practices to practical Christian living, the publisher seeks to enrich the faith journeys of its audience.
How to submit: The official website outlines clear submission procedures and invites authors to submit manuscripts that reflect a commitment to literary excellence and Christian values. Interested contributors should review the provided guidelines to ensure that their proposals are in line with Whitaker House’s mission.
45. William Cary Publishing
William Cary Publishing was founded in 1969 (under the name of William Cary Library) with the aim of making the theses at Fuller Seminary’s School of World Mission available to a wider audience. To date, WCP has published over 500 titles and sold over one million mission-related books.
How to submit: These Christian publishers seek to assist the work of mission executives, field missionaries, and mission-minded churches. They accept proposals for books with a missiological end and are not looking for any poetry, fiction, or political commentaries.
46. Wipf and Stock
Wipf and Stock are Christian publishers who state that they are committed to publishing a diverse range of books – so long as the titles honor imagination, intellect, and heart. Wipf and Stock have been serving Christian readers since 1995.
How to submit: If you are interested in submitting your book to Wipf and Stock, you can do so on an unsolicited basis. You should complete a full proposal form, include your resume and a sample chapter, and attach a full manuscript if you have reached that stage of your project.
Wipf and Stock state they will respond to authors within four to eight weeks, which is one of the faster response times found in this guide on Christian publishers.
47. Worthy Books
Worthy Books is another strong Hachette Nashville imprint alongside FaithWords. In 2026, Worthy is releasing the sequel to William Paul Young’s The Shack, one of the most-discussed Christian novels in recent memory. Their catalog tends toward testimonial, inspirational, and transformational Christian nonfiction and fiction.
How to submit: Agent representation is recommended. Contact Hachette Nashville for current guidelines.
48. Xulon Press
Xulon Press has long been recognized as a publisher that supports a diverse range of Christian voices by offering flexible print-on-demand services and innovative publishing solutions. Its catalog features both traditional and contemporary titles designed to reach a wide audience.
How to submit: According to the website, Xulon Press accepts unsolicited manuscripts and offers detailed guidelines to help authors navigate the submission process. Prospective contributors are encouraged to review these requirements carefully before sending in their proposals to ensure the best fit with the press’s editorial criteria.
49. Zondervan
Zondervan is the last company on our list of Christian publishers. They are associated with Thomas Nelson, and are a more accessible place to publish compared to the larger company. If you are interested in learning more about Zondervan, you can check out our guide to everything Zondervan has to offer.
How to submit: At this time, authors are welcome to submit unsolicited manuscripts to two of the main Zondervan imprints – Zondervan Reflective and Zondervan Academic. Proposals should include a succinct description of the book, a table of contents, information on who the intended reader is, and a justification of why you are the right author for the book.
Now that you have an idea of the best Christian publishers out there, it’s important to consider the next big question: do you want to go through traditional Christian publishers, or are Christian self-publishing companies a better avenue for your faith-based book?
Using Christian publishers vs self-publishing
Here’s the honest tension every Christian author needs to sit with.
Traditional Christian publishing has real advantages. Distribution reach, editorial credibility, retailer relationships, and the legitimacy that comes with a recognized publisher’s name on your spine. These things matter, especially if your goal is to get your book into church bookstores, seminary reading lists, or the hands of pastors and ministry leaders who follow specific publishers.
But the cost of those advantages is significant. You’re looking at response times that can stretch to six months or more just to hear a yes or no. Publication timelines of eighteen months to two years after acceptance are common. Royalty rates that rarely exceed 15% on net sales. And real limits on your creative control, from the title to the cover to the content itself.
At selfpublishing.com, we’ve helped hundreds of Christian authors navigate that choice. And what I’ve seen is this: for most authors, especially first-time authors with a clear message and a specific audience, self-publishing produces better outcomes faster, with more creative freedom and significantly higher royalties.
The questions you need to ask yourself honestly are:
- Do you need the specific distribution channels or institutional credibility that comes with a traditional publisher?
- Are you willing to wait two or more years to see your book in readers’ hands?
- Can you accept the possibility that a traditional publisher may want to change your title, your approach, or your theological framing?
- Do you have the platform size that most traditional publishers are quietly requiring before they’ll sign you?
If the answer to any of those questions gives you pause, self-publishing is worth a serious look.
If you choose to self-publish your Christian book, there is a plethora of resources and self-publishing courses out there to show you the ropes. And, of course, there are Christian self-publishing companies who can help you at every step along the way.
Self-publishing is a great option if you can be your own project manager for your book – this includes having a budget for self-publishing costs (it’s often cheaper than paying for publishing packages with a company).
Plus, you get full creative control and full royalties.
If you plan to publish more than one book in your lifetime, or if you want to build an author career, you may want to opt for an author education program rather than a publishing package. Christian self-publishing companies can help you decide the right package for your goals.
Why self-publishing your Christian book makes sense in 2026
Paul writes in Romans 12 that we have different gifts according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, prophesy. If it is teaching, teach. If it is to encourage, give encouragement.
The point isn’t that one gift is better than another. The point is that the gift is meant to be used, not held in a drawer while you wait for institutional approval.
Self-publishing in 2026 is not what it was ten years ago. The quality of self-published books has increased dramatically. The distribution reach through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Christian book retailers, and digital platforms is genuinely comparable to what traditional publishers offer. And the ability to maintain full creative control means your book reaches readers as you intended it.
The practical advantages are real:
Speed. While traditional publishers are still deciding whether to respond to your query, a self-published author can have their book in readers’ hands. For a message that feels urgent (and most books that God puts on a Christian author’s heart feel urgent) that matters.
Royalties. Traditional publishers typically offer 10-15% on net sales, if that. Self-published authors on major platforms can earn 35-70% royalties depending on pricing and format. If your book sells, the difference is substantial. Use this book royalties calculator to compare.
Creative ownership. You keep the rights. You control the cover, the content, and the direction. The book stays yours.
No gatekeepers. The traditional publishing world has often been slow to welcome new, diverse, or unconventional Christian voices. Self-publishing has no gatekeepers – only readers, and ultimately, God.
If you’re looking for the best way to get your Christian book out into the world, you should consider full self-publishing as an alternative to working with one of the traditional Christian publishers in our guide.
Let selfpublishing.com help you get your faith-based book published
Here’s what I want you to know: you don’t have to figure this out alone.
At selfpublishing.com, we have helped many Christian authors write, publish, and launch their faith-based books into the world. We’ve worked with first-time authors who had a message burning in their hearts and no idea where to start. We’ve worked with pastors and ministry leaders who needed their teaching in book form. We’ve worked with Christian memoirists, novelists, devotional writers, and theologians.
The question isn’t whether your book deserves to exist. If God put it on your heart, it does. The question is how to get it into the hands of the readers who need it.
We’d love to help you answer that question. Schedule a free consultation with our team and let’s talk about your book, your audience, and the best path forward.
Your message matters. Let’s get it published.
Frequently asked questions about Christian publishers
What is the largest Christian publisher?
Thomas Nelson, now part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, is widely regarded as one of the largest and most prestigious traditional Christian publishers. Zondervan is also part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. In the self-publishing space, Xulon Press claims to be the largest Christian publisher in North America.
Do Christian publishers accept self-submissions?
It depends on the publisher. Several on this list (including Eerdmans, Chalice Press, Crosslink Publishing, CKN Christian Publishing, and Wipf and Stock) accept unsolicited manuscripts directly. Others require agent representation. Always check the publisher’s current submission guidelines before reaching out.
How long does it take to get published by a Christian publisher?
From initial submission to published book, the traditional publishing timeline typically ranges from one to three years. This includes the query period, proposal review, contract negotiation, editing, design, and production. Self-publishing can compress this timeline to months.
What is the best Christian publisher for first-time authors?
Publishers explicitly welcoming first-time authors include Kharis Publishing, Gilead Books, CKN Christian Publishing, and Covenant Books. For first-time authors without an established platform, self-publishing through a guided program is often the most effective path to publication.
Can I publish a Christian book without a literary agent?
Yes. Many of the publishers listed here accept unagented submissions directly. And with self-publishing, no agent is needed at all, you work directly with publishing professionals to bring your book to market.
