Stage 1: Getting To Know Jesus Stage 1: Getting To Know Jesus Stage 1: Getting To Know Jesus
Episode 1: Stories
Part 2: Jesus, The Storyteller
Have you ever told a story about an experience that you have had? Have you ever told that story multiple times? You start getting pretty good at telling that story. The crowd you are telling that story to becomes hooked and feels like they are a part of the story. If you can tell the story well enough, there is no question that the audience will retell your story. That is the mark of a good storyteller.
As stated in Part 1, Stories move us. Humans have been telling stories since the beginning of time because they are easy to remember and easily discussed. How many times have you discussed your favorite movie/series with a friend? You have broken down each event, and every character like you were in the story. The story is only as good as the storyteller.
Jesus was the master storyteller.
In the past 2,000 years, Jesus has had more “shares” than anyone in history. Even if you are new to the Bible, you have heard a retelling of one of his stories. In the past 2,000 years, Jesus has had more “shares” than anyone in history. Even if you are new to the Bible, you have heard a retelling of one of his stories. In the past 2,000 years, Jesus has had more “shares” than anyone in history. Even if you are new to the Bible, you have heard a retelling of one of his stories.
“The Prodigal Son” and “The Good Samaritan” are two of his most retold stories. If those names sound familiar, click on the links below to read those stories, and once you start reading the narrative, the stories will come to mind.
“Jesus used stories when he spoke to the people. In fact, he did not tell them anything without using stories” - Matthew 13:34
Along with these stories, you’ve probably heard the phrase “know your audience.” Jesus knew his audience. He told stories so that people could relate to and remember his messages. Fishermen, farmers, women, children, and Pharisees all heard stories drawn from their everyday lives.
When the crowds heard Jesus speak, they became immersed in what he was saying, whether they were sitting around the fire, sitting at the dinner table, or walking along the dusty road with him. Jesus made the kingdom of God come alive and understandable to the average person who truly followed him.
His stories impacted people of the past and affected our lives today. Again, Jesus knew his audience. Jesus knows you, and he is speaking through his stories right to you.
Scripture References: Matthew 13, Luke 10:25-37, Luke 15:11-32
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