There are many places throughout the world where a written language doesn’t exist. There are others where literacy rates are extremely low. In both cases, without the ability to read the actual text from the Bible, storytelling is an effective method for sharing the gospel.
The e3 Orality team trains believers all across the world on how to use the storytelling method for evangelism.
In 2017, they were invited to do some training for a like-minded ministry in Africa. The training involved an enthusiastic group of villagers, who took part in lively discussions about the gospel and were hungry to learn how they could spread the Good News. Soon after the training ended, our team began to hear stories of how those trained were using Bible storying in the villages, and the positive reception they were receiving!
Then, in May of 2018, just days before the e3 Orality team was supposed to return to conduct a “follow-up” training, there was a fatal automobile accident that took the lives of two of the African trainees and seriously injured another.
The accident, and the grief that came with it, drastically affected the people in the village, but their faith in God never wavered. They continued pursuing Jesus, meeting together as a church, and sharing the gospel with others.
Just this week, we received a recording of a child, probably around the age of 4 or 5, retelling the story known as “Who Am I?” from Matthew 16. In this story, Jesus asks his followers, “Who do people say I am?” and Peter responds, “You are the Promised Savior, the Son of God.”
Listen to the recording:
Whether you can understand the language the child is speaking in or not, the recording is captivating. It’s powerful to listen to him speak so confidently at such a young age, and then to hear the cheers of the other villagers when he finishes. God can truly use anyone to spread His love and His gospel.
The storytelling method is incredibly effective. We’re seeing it spread rapidly throughout many parts of the world. If you’re interested in learning more about it or going on an e3 Orality trip simply click here.