Jesus as a Storyteller

Jesus taught through parables, in lessons he knew people would understand. Those parables often related to growing plants or to household matters such as leaven for making bread. They were aspects of life that people encountered every day. “Without a parable he told them nothing.” (verse 34)

Long before I was a storyteller, I loved stories-ones our teachers read, bedtime stories Mom told us, and stories I hear as an adult through an experienced teller.

As a child, the stories I heard were suited to our age and understanding, often coming with lessons and others just for enjoyment, but always some piece that stayed with us. That’s the value of a good story. How could we ever forget that one of the golden-haired little girl intruding into another’s home with no invitation, or of that big bad wolf at the door. Stories for adults might initiate an appreciation of folklore or another culture.

Stories Jesus told were meant to initiate a better understanding of the kingdom. Each time we hear them, we take in the story afresh, based on where we are at the time.

Heavenly Father, help us to read and hear the stories in your Word so that we might better understand your kingdom. Amen. — CRW