Unlocking the Power of Bible Storytelling
In a world where information is readily available, it can seem counterintuitive to retell Bible stories instead of just reading the original text. However, this approach has its roots in biblical tradition. When Christ descended, He gifted the church with pastor-teachers, highlighting the importance of guiding others in understanding God’s word.
The Role of Teachers in the Church
Throughout history, God has provided qualified men to teach others about His word. The Old Testament priest was expected to be a teaching priest, and prophets were sent to guide the people. This legacy continues today, as seen in the beautifully illustrated book by Kevin DeYoung, which combines 104 easy-to-read stories from Scripture with artwork by Don Clark.
Learning from Kids’ Books
While some may view kids’ books as simplistic, they can actually provide valuable insights into the Bible. By retelling the story of the Bible in a way that’s accessible to children, these books can help readers of all ages gain a deeper understanding of God’s word.
The Importance of Faithful Summaries
A faithful summary of Bible stories can draw out elements that might have been missed otherwise. By presenting the stories in a way that’s relatable to kids, these summaries can help young readers develop a strong foundation in biblical knowledge.
Meet Kevin DeYoung
Kevin DeYoung, author of The Biggest Story Bible Storybook, is a senior pastor and associate professor of systematic theology. With a passion for teaching and writing, Kevin has written books for children, adults, and academics, including Just Do Something and Impossible Christianity.
Prioritizing Children’s Ministry
Jesus taught His disciples the importance of welcoming, protecting, and valuing children as a kingdom priority. By following this example, Christians can help children develop a strong faith and a love for others.
Catechizing the Next Generation
In a world where competing values and ideologies vie for attention, it’s more important than ever to catechize children in the ways of the Bible. By doing so, parents and non-parents alike can help young people develop a strong foundation in biblical knowledge and a love for Jesus that will last a lifetime.
Respecting the Personhood of Children
Children are born persons, deserving of respect and dignity. By recognizing their inherent worth, adults can create a safe and supportive environment that allows children to flourish and grow in their faith.
Teaching Biblical Theology
When teaching the stories of the Bible, it’s essential to help children connect the dots between individual stories and the larger narrative of God’s word. By doing so, parents and educators can give young people a comprehensive understanding of biblical theology that will serve them well throughout their lives.
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