How should missionaries teach deep biblical truth in cultures where storytelling, rather than reading, is the main way people learn?
In this week’s episode, Alex and Scott explore “character theology”—using the people, events, and overarching story of Scripture to help believers understand who God is and what he has done. They discuss why missionaries should resist choosing between biblical stories and systematic theology. Instead, the stories of Scripture can give life and context to doctrines that might otherwise seem abstract.
Alex and Scott also consider what this means for pastors, teachers, and everyday Christians. From God’s holiness to Christ’s finished work, the Bible teaches theology through a sweeping story of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. By becoming better biblical storytellers, Christians can help people better understand sound doctrine, see how all of Scripture points to Christ, and grasp the good news in a way that engages both the mind and the heart.
Key Topics
- Teaching theology in oral and preliterate cultures
- Balancing Bible storytelling with systematic theology
- How Scripture’s stories reveal the character of God
- Using chronological Bible storytelling in missions
- Connecting the Bible’s overarching story to Christ
- Applying biblical storytelling in preaching, discipleship, and evangelism
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