Telling Stories to Make Disciples
Jesus told stories to people whenever He spoke to the crowds, and then, He explained the stories more fully to His close disciples afterward.(Mark 4:33,34) Jesus knew that people like stories, and they will remember them, even if they do not have faith in God. Then, the Holy Spirit can bring the truth to their minds when they remember the stories, and convict them of what they need to do. It is an important part of making disciples, because we want to do what is most effective to see people saved and grow in the Lord, so they will make more disciples.
Think about it. How many sermon outlines can you remember? Probably, you don't remember too many unless you are a preacher or teacher. However, think about how many stories you remember, especially those you heard in a sermon. It is probably a huge number, because we love stories, and they make an impression on us for a long time.
So many people are afraid to tell others about Jesus. They fear rejection and questions. What about telling stories to share the gospel? We can all do that by telling Bible stories and other stories with a good meaning. That is what we mean by a parable. Then, the Lord can use it to draw that person to Christ. Try it, and see what happens. I believe you will find the same thing that Jesus found in His earthly ministry. Multitudes followed Him, and they listened to Him gladly. It was the religious leaders who were upset with Him and plotting to kill Him.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Mark 5-7.
Think about it. How many sermon outlines can you remember? Probably, you don't remember too many unless you are a preacher or teacher. However, think about how many stories you remember, especially those you heard in a sermon. It is probably a huge number, because we love stories, and they make an impression on us for a long time.
So many people are afraid to tell others about Jesus. They fear rejection and questions. What about telling stories to share the gospel? We can all do that by telling Bible stories and other stories with a good meaning. That is what we mean by a parable. Then, the Lord can use it to draw that person to Christ. Try it, and see what happens. I believe you will find the same thing that Jesus found in His earthly ministry. Multitudes followed Him, and they listened to Him gladly. It was the religious leaders who were upset with Him and plotting to kill Him.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Mark 5-7.