A Guide To Storytelling - Part 2

The parable is interesting because it requires the listener to pay close attention to each detail. On the surface, the story seems to make no sense; however, with close examination the listener can find meaning in the multiple layers of the story. By doing so, truth becomes more real. Most Christians would prefer stories that don’t contain symbolism and metaphors because they require an interpretation. That’s not how Jesus taught. If we are looking for the heart of God in entertainment and media, he will be using symbolism and metaphors to communicate his truth.

Jesus told familiar stories that were tied to everyday activities. He didn’t talk about things that the average person wouldn’t understand. He wanted to connect to his audience. In fact, Jesus was culturally relevant. He lived in a primarily agricultural society; therefore, he talked about farmers, soil, seeds, harvesting, servants, livestock, etc. In the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16, Jesus offered a story that all of his listeners could relate to. A rich man produced many fine crops. He decided to tear down his barns and build bigger ones so that he would have more room to store his food. “The rich fool said, and I will sit back and say to myself, my friend you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy. Eat, drink and be merry”. NLT

In the culture that Jesus lived in, having enough food was always a struggle for survival. Those who were listening wanted to be rich. Who didn’t want to have enough food stored away so that he could take it easy and eat, drink and be merry? Finding common elements in the culture that people relate to is essential to good storytelling. Jesus had his listeners exactly where he wanted them. He went on in verse 20 to say, “You fool, you will die this very night. Then who will get it all?” NLT Yes a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth and does not have a rich relationship with God. Jesus found a way to get his message across in a way that people could relate to.

If we want to tell compelling stories and relate to the general audience, we can learn a thing or two from Jesus. Jesus is presenting to us, the Body of Christ, the ultimate storytelling concepts.

Jesus told interesting stories full of drama, conflict and personal struggles. You do not have a story unless you have some form of conflict. Jesus embraced four story concepts, which are the only concepts in the storytelling process--man vs. man, man vs. himself, man vs. nature and man vs. the supernatural. In each one of these story concepts, conflict is essential.