An Aussie man tells stories at the pub

David (not his real name) came to Taiwan as part of a short-term mission team. While there he learned how to do Bible storytelling and was assured that ordinary Australians would appreciate the method. He had a particular concern that Australian men who wouldn’t want to go near a church would have a way that they could become followers of Jesus.

One of David’s friends had recently become a Christian and he was keen to learn more about the bible. Rather than doing a normal Bible study that people in the church are accustomed to, David tried one of the Bible stories he’d learned. His friend responded very positively and was keen not only to hear more stories but to invite a friend of his.

This friend had had a Christian upbringing but had rejected his background. They agreed to meet in a pub as that is where it felt normal for them. They’ve already covered stories up to the Passover. The second friend also wanted a Bible and so the storytelling has resulted in all of them reading the Bible in their own time.

David was blown away with the profound statements that his two friends made after hearing the stories. Without any prior biblical knowledge, they could pick up points that his regular Bible study did not.

David writes: “There is something unique about story-telling, particularly in informal settings. It is more engaging and seems to captivate the mind. There appear to be far less natural barriers. They are just hearing a harmless story after all. And they genuinely look forward to hearing the next one. Gradually, I see them piecing together the Bible story. They linkages between Abraham almost sacrificing his son Isaac was a light bulb moment.”

Used with permission.