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Story Collections

A growing library of curated Bible story sets — Apostles, God's Story, Prophets, Women of the Bible, Dreams and Visions, Power Encounter, Discipleship and Obedience, Forgiveness, Healing, Hope, Prayer, Persecution, Parables, and more — each matched to specific Scripture passages so a discipler can quickly find the right stories for where a person is. Includes versions adapted for Animist, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu background hearers, giving oral learners and new believers an accessible, culturally relevant way to encounter Scripture.

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Bible Story Collections for Oral Learners

Twenty-one curated sets of Scripture stories — choose the collection that fits your people and their worldview. Tell the story, then let the group discover: breathe in by hearing the Word, breathe out by obeying it and sharing it with others.

Matching a story to a worldview issue

A story may speak more strongly than a sermon about God’s view on cultural issues. These stories match a Biblical truth to a cultural or worldview barrier:

God's Promise to Abraham Illustrates God's relationship with man — He is not distant and unknowable
The Ten Commandments Illustrates that God is Holy
Saul at Endor Illustrates the evil of witchcraft and consulting mediums, and God's view of these things
Abraham is Tested Illustrates blood sacrifice
Elijah is Fed by the Ravens Illustrates that God is our Provider
Solomon's Dream Illustrates the significance of dreams
The Book of the Law is Found Illustrates idolatry and God's view of idols made by man
Naaman Healed of Leprosy Illustrates healing and the power of God
The Golden Calf Illustrates idolatry and God's hatred of idolatry
The Lost Son Illustrates forgiveness
The Story of Lazarus Illustrates the power of God
Paul in Athens Illustrates the religious nature of certain cultures
Bricks without Straw Illustrates oppression and social caste — God's view of equality
Peter's Vision on Food Illustrates God's view on food taboos

Activity idea: don’t give the answers — assign the stories to pairs and let each pair discover which barrier, cultural issue or Biblical truth every story addresses, and how it could help change worldview.

The Apostles Collection66 stories66 stories — the church is born, from the Ascension to the Letters.
  1. The Ascension of Jesus and the Replacement of the Twelfth Apostle
  2. Pentecost and Peter's Speech
  3. Peter and John at the Temple
  4. The Arrest of Peter and John and their Release
  5. Ananias and Sapphira
  6. Arrest and Persecution of the Apostles

From Approximately the Years 33 -35 AD

  1. The Choosing of the Seven and the Arrest of Stephen
  2. Stephen's Speech
  3. Stephen is Stoned
  4. The Gospel in Samaria
  5. Phillip and the Ethiopian
  6. Saul is Converted and Travels to Arabia also

From Approximately the Years 36-39 AD

  1. Saul Goes to Jerusalem, Tarsus and Cilicia , Gal 1:18a; Gal 1:18b-24;
  2. Peter, Aeneas and Tabitha
  3. Peter and Cornelius
  4. Peter Explains his Actions toward the Gentiles

From Approximately the Years 43-46

  1. Foundation of the Church at Antioch
  2. Peter's Arrest and Miraculous Deliverance (and, as an option, Recite on persecution)
  3. Death of Herod the Persecutor (and, as an option, Recite 1)

From Approximately the Years 46-48 AD

  1. The Missionary Call of Saul and Barnabas
  2. The Gospel to the Province of Galatia Actss 13:13-43
  3. The People's Response
  4. Paul and Barnabas Plant Churches in Galatia
  5. Paul Teaches the New Churches (and, as an option, Recite on the fruit of the Holy Spirit)

From Approximately the Years 48-50 AD

  1. The Return to Antioch
  2. Controversy at Antioch a and
  3. The Meeting in Jerusalem b-21
  4. The Letter to Gentile Believers
  5. The Letter of James

From Approximately the Years 50-51 AD

  1. Paul, Barnabas, Mark, Silas and Timothy Strengthen the Churches
  2. Paul in Philippi (and, as an option, Recite from Paul's letter: )
  3. Paul and Silas in Prison (and, as an option, Recite from Paul's letter:
  4. Paul's Ministry in Thessalonica and narrative from 1 Thess. 2:1-9
  5. Paul at Berea and Athens-The Unknown God
  6. Paul Moves to Corinth for 18 Months and narrative in
  7. Paul Writes to the Thessalonians from Corinth I Thess. 1:1-10 and 2:17-3:6(and, as an option, Recite from Paul's letter: 1 Thess 5:1-11 on the Second Coming)

From Approximately the Years 52-54 AD

  1. Paul Goes to Syria
  2. Priscilla, Aquila and Apollos
  3. Paul Goes to Ephesus (and as an option Recite from Paul's letter: )
  4. Paul Teaches the Ephesians (and as an option Recite from Paul's letter: )

From Approximately the Years 55-56 AD

  1. Paul Teaches at the School of Tyrannus (and as an option Recite from Paul's letter: on the Armor of God)
  2. From Ephesus Paul Writes to the Corinthians
  3. Silversmiths' Riot in Ephesus

From Approximately the Year 57 AD

  1. Paul's Third Visit to Corinth, Greece a(and as an option Recite from Paul's letter: on Love)
  2. Paul Writes a Letter to the Romans (and as an option Recite from his letter:
  3. Paul in Troas
  4. Paul Meets with the Ephesian Elders
  5. Paul's Journey Continues
  6. Paul's Arrest in Jerusalem
  7. Paul Speaks to the Crowd
  8. Paul and the Sanhedrin
  9. Paul Escapes to Caesaria

From Approximately the Year 59 AD

  1. Paul Appeals to Caesar
  2. Festus Consults the King
  3. Paul Tells His Story to King Agrippa
  4. Paul Sails for Rome
  5. The Storm
  6. At Malta (and as an option Recite on prayer for the sick)

From Approximately the Years 60-64 AD

  1. Paul Arrives in Rome
  2. Paul's Home in Rome (and as an option Recite from Paul's letter to the Romans: Romans: 5:1-8)
  3. Paul Sends a Letter to the Ephesians (and as an option Recite: )
  4. Paul Sends a Letter to the Philippians (and optionally Recite from Phil. 4:10-23
  5. Paul Sends a Letter to the Colossians (and as an option Recite Col. 3:12-17 on the characteristics of believers)
  6. Paul Sends a Letter to Philemon of Colosse
  7. Paul Writes a Letter to
  8. Paul Writes a Letter to Titus (and as an option Recite on qualifications of elders)
God's Story Collection50 stories50 stories from Creation to the church — arranged by the 4 Fields.
  1. Creation
  2. The Fall of Man
  3. Cain and Abel
  4. Noah and the FloodStory from: Introduction summarized from
  5. The Tower of Babel
  6. The Story of Job

Part 2 Stories of Abraham and His Sons Stone clearing

  1. The Call of Abram
  2. The Covenant
  3. The Birth of Isaac
  4. God Provides a Sacrifice
  5. A Bride for Isaac
  6. Jacob and the Blessing
  7. Joseph's Dream

Part 3 Stories of the Prophets Sowing

  1. Joseph in EgyptTaken from
  2. The Story of MosesTaken from
  3. The Covenant at Shechem
  4. Gideon and the Midianites
  5. David Spares Saul's Life (then perhaps Recite )
  6. The Wisdom of Solomon (then perhaps Recite )
  7. Elijah is Fed by the Ravens
  8. Elijah on Mt. Carmel
  9. The Prophet Isaiah and King Hezekiah (then Recite )
  10. The Call of Jeremiah
  11. Daniel and the Writing on the Wall

Part 4 Stories of Jesus Sowing, Watering, Harvesting

  1. An Angel Visits Mary
  2. The Messiah is Born
  3. The Boy Jesus
  4. John Prepares the Way
  5. Jesus' Baptism and Temptation
  6. Jesus' First Disciples
  7. Jesus Forgives Sins
  8. Gadarene Demoniac
  9. The Sermon on the Mount
  10. Lazarus Is Raised
  11. Jesus Enters Jerusalem
  12. The Passover Supper
  13. Jesus Is Arrested
  14. Jesus' Trial
  15. The Crucifixion of Jesus
  16. The Risen Christ

Part 5 Stories of God's People Discipleship

  1. The Ascension and Waiting for the Holy Spirit
  2. Day of Pentecost
  3. Peter and John Heal a Beggar
  4. The Disciples Share
  5. The Story of Stephen

Part 6 Stories of the Apostles Train Leaders

  1. Philip Preaches in Samaria
  2. Saul Begins to Preach
  3. Peter Heals Aeneas and Dorcus
  4. The Macedonian Call
  5. Paul Visits Corinth
The Prophets Collection18 storiesWith recitations from Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Isaiah, Lamentations & Matthew.
  1. A Story of Adam
  2. A Story of Noah
  3. A Story of Job
  4. Stories of Abraham
    a. Friend of God
    b. Abram and Lot
    c. Abraham and the Covenant
    d. Ishmael, Son of Abraham ***)
    e. The Lord Talks to Abraham
    f. Abraham and Isaac ***
  5. Stories of Joseph
    a. Joseph, Sold by his Brothers
    b. Joseph in Egypt
  6. Stories of Moses
    a. Prophet of God
    b. Moses and the Passover ***
    c. Moses and the 10 Commandments
  7. The Prophet Joshua
  8. A Story of Samson
  9. A Story of Ruth
  10. Hannah, mother of a Prophet
  11. The Prophet
  12. Stories of King David
    a. David and Goliath
    b. David's Victories Recite Recite from and others.
  13. The Wisdom of King Solomon Recite Solomon's andRecite .
  14. The Prophet JonahAll of Jonah chapters 1,2,3,4(Please note each chapter is very short)
  15. The Prophet Isaiah & Envoys from Babylon Recite
  16. The Prophet Jeremiah Recite from Lamentations Chapter 3.
  17. The Prophet Daniel in the Den of Lions
  18. Stories of The Prophet and Messiah Jesus
    a. The Genealogy of Jesus
    b. The Birth
    c. The Magi
    d. The Prophet John
    e. The Ministry
    f. Death and Resurrection Recite from Recite from .*** Use with Discretion
The Women's Collection43 stories43 stories of God working through and for women.
  1. A Wife for Adam
  2. The Consequences of Adam and Eve's Sin
  3. God Saves Noah's Family
  4. Sarah, Abraham and the Promised Son
  5. Sarah and Hagar
  6. The Son of Sarah... God's Provision of Acceptable Sacrifice
  7. A Bride for Isaac
  8. Rachel and Leah
  9. The Suffering of Tamar the Widow
  10. Potiphar's Wife and Joseph...God's Intercession
  11. Moses, his Mother and Sister Miriam
  12. Rahab and the Entry into Jericho
  13. The Story of Deborah
  14. The Story of Ruth and Naomi
  15. The Story of Hannah
  16. Saul and the Witch at Endor &
  17. The Story of Abigail
  18. The Story of Bathsheba
  19. Two women and a Baby...Solomon's Wise Ruling
  20. The Queen of Sheba Visits Jerusalem
  21. Queen Jezebel
  22. The Widow at Zarepath
  23. The Widow's Oil
  24. The Shunammite Woman
  25. Naaman's Wife, her Servant and the Healing of Leprosy
  26. Queen Athaliah
  27. Queen Hadassah (Esther) ; all of 4
  28. The Story of Elizabeth and Zechariah
  29. Mary and the Birth of Jesus
  30. The Prophetess Anna at the Temple
  31. Mary and Joseph Seek young Jesus at the Temple
  32. The Wedding at Cana
  33. The Woman at the Well
  34. The Raising of Jairus' daughter
  35. The Widow's Only Son
  36. The Woman at Simon's house
  37. The Widow's Offering
  38. Syro-Phoenician Woman's Faith
  39. A Mother's Request
  40. The Wedding Banquet...a Parable
  41. The Ten Virgins...a Parable
  42. Mary, Martha and Lazarus
  43. The Women Visit the Empty Tomb
Dreams & Visions Collection22 storiesFor cultures where God speaks through dreams.
  1. Abraham's Dream
  2. Abimelech's DreamRecite:
  3. Jacob's Dream of Stairway
  4. Jacob's Dream of Goats
  5. Joseph's Dreams
  6. The Dream about Gideon
  7. Solomon's Dream
  8. Nebuchadnezzar's Dream
  9. Daniel Interprets Dreams
  10. Daniel's Dream of Four Beasts
  11. Prophet Joel on DreamsRecite:

New Testament Dreams and Visions

  1. Joseph's Dream
  2. Visit of Magi
  3. Escape to Egypt
  4. Dream of wife of Pilate
  5. Paul's Conversion
  6. Ananias Vision
  7. Peter's Vision on Food
  8. Peter's Vision in Jail
  9. Paul's Vision of Macedonia
  10. Paul's Vision in Corinth
  11. Paul's Vision of Jesus
Witchcraft & Sorcery Collection13 storiesGod's power and truth over the occult.
  1. Pharaoh's Sorcerers & Moses
  2. Commandment
  3. Idolatry Forbidden :
  4. Saul and the Witch of Endor
  5. Jezebel and King Jehu and verse 10:36
  6. King Manasseh, Idols and Repentance
  7. Prophets of Balak and Balaam
  8. Israel Exiled
  9. The King's Sorcerers
  10. Simon the Sorcerer
  11. The Jewish Sorcerer
  12. Elymas the Sorcerer
  13. Sorcerers burn their Scrolls
Idolatry Collection15 storiesGod's view of idols — and the freedom He gives.
  1. Ten Commandments
  2. The Golden Calf
  3. Moab Seduces Israel
  4. Gideon Saves Israel
  5. Micah's Idols
  6. Solomon's Wives
  7. The Man of God from Judah
  8. Jeroboam and the Prophet
  9. Elijah and the Prophets of Baal
  10. Ahab and Jezebel
  11. Balams Oracles
  12. Shadrach, Michack, Abednego
  13. Jeremiah and the Clay Pot
  14. Israel's Idolatry
  15. Fall of Jerusalem
The Power Encounter Collection20 storiesJesus' authority over sickness, spirits, storm and death.
  1. The Temptation of Jesus
  2. Jesus Drives out an Evil Spirit
  3. Jesus Raises a Widow's Son
  4. Jesus Calms the Storm
  5. Healing a Demon Possessed Man
  6. Jesus and Beelzebub
  7. The Canaanite's Daughter
  8. Jesus Heals Woman with a Spirit
  9. Healing a Boy with a Demon
  10. The Fig Tree Withers
  11. Jesus and Lazarus
  12. Death of Jesus and the Temple Curtain
  13. The Resurrection of Jesus
  14. Simon the Sorcerer
  15. Peter's Escape from Prison
  16. The Sorcerer Elymas meets Paul
  17. A Slave Girl is Healed
  18. Paul in Ephesus
  19. Eutychus Raised from the Dead
  20. Paul in Malta
The Discipleship / Obedience Collection45 storiesStories illustrating 7 principles of obedience to Christ.

Repentance

  1. Jesus and Zacchaeus
  2. The Repentance of Paul
  3. The Calling of Matthew
  4. The Lost Sheep
  5. Jesus Preaches Repentance in Galilee
  6. The Lost Coin
  7. The Rich Man and Lazarus

Baptism

  1. Jesus is Baptized
  2. The New Believers
  3. Crispus and His Household in Corinth
  4. Paul's Baptism in Damascus
  5. Lydia's Baptism

Love

  1. The Good Samaritan
  2. The Anointing of Jesus' Feet
  3. Jesus Teaches on Love
  4. Paul Demonstrates Compassion
  5. The Elders' of Ephesus Grief for Paul
  6. God's Love Revealed to Nicodemus
  7. The Love of a Father

The Lord's Supper

  1. The Lord's Supper from Luke
  2. The Lord's Supper from Matthew
  3. The Lord's Supper from Mark
  4. Breaking Bread in Troas
  5. The Lord's Supper in Corinth

Prayer

  1. Jesus Teaches us to Pray
  2. The Judge and the Persistent Widow
  3. Ezra Prays and Fasts
  4. The Jerusalem Believers Pray
  5. The Prayer at Gethsemane
  6. Intercession for Peter

Giving

  1. The Poor Widow
  2. The Believers Share their Possessions
  3. Ananias and Sapphira
  4. The Gifts of the Philippians
  5. The Rich Young Ruler
  6. The Pharisee and the Tax Collector & Mat 6:1-4
  7. The Sheep and the Goats

Sharing your Faith and Making Disciples

  1. The Great Commission
  2. The Workers are Few
  3. The Seventy are Sent Out
  4. The First Converts Share about Christ
  5. Jesus Sends the Disciples to Samaria and Beyond
  6. The Angel Exhorts the Apostles
  7. In Iconium
  8. Listen to the Lord's Guidance
The Forgiveness Collection20 storiesStories of forgiveness given and received.
  1. Jacob and Esau
  2. Joseph Forgives his Brothers
  3. Moses and the Israelites Optional: Recite : A prayer of Moses
  4. David Spares the Life of Saul Optional: Recite :A Psalm of David
  5. Absalom Returns to Jerusalem Optional: Recite
  6. The Israelites Confess their Sins Optional: Recite
  7. God's Patience with King ManassehII Chronicles: 33
  8. Hezekiah's Illness and verse 21Optional: Recite
  9. Jeremiah Buys a Field
  10. The Lord's Compassion on Ninevah
  11. Jesus Forgives a Woman' Sins
  12. Jesus and the Paralytic
  13. The Calling of Matthew
  14. Jesus Forgives Peter
  15. Jesus on the Cross
  16. Parable of the Lost Sheep
  17. Parable of the Lost Son
  18. Parable of the Unmerciful Servant
  19. Paul and Ananias
  20. The Lord's Grace toward Paul
The Healing Collection17 storiesGod heals — from Abraham to the apostles.
  1. Abraham and Abimelech
  2. Moses Hand Restored
  3. The Bronze Snake
  4. The Man of God Heals
  5. The Widow's Son Healed
  6. The Shunammites Son Raised
  7. Naaman Healed of Leprosey
  8. King Hezekiah's Illness
  9. The King's Dream and Healing
  10. Jesus Heals the Sick
  11. The Man with Leprosey
  12. The Faith of the Centurion
  13. Jesus Heals Many
  14. Jesus Heals Demon-Possessed
  15. Jesus and the Paralytic
  16. Jesus Heals Blind and Mute
  17. Faith of Canaanite Woman
The Hope Collection15 storiesStory-and-dialogue sets that kindle hope.
  1. Jacob's Dream at Bethel took place about 1975 BCDialogue Introduction to the story . Jacob was the son of Isaac who was the son of Abraham. In this story Jacobwas traveling to Paddan Aram in the region of Haran,, to marry a daughter of Laban. His family did not want him tomarry a Hittite or Caananite woman but rather to marry a relative of his mother Rebeka
    h. His father Isaac blessedhim as he left saying: "May God give you and your descendants the blessing given to Abarahan, so that you may takepossession of the land where you now live as an alien. "As Jacob was traveling from Beersheba he had an amazingdream.Tell the Story from . Use only the words of the Scripture.
  2. Water from the Rock took place about 1445 BCDialogue Introduction to the story . When Moses and the Hebrew people fled from Egypt to the desert, Mosesfound many times that the people were rebellious and they would argue with him and with the Lor
    d. The people weregrumbling because of the lack of food or water. At the time of this story they were wandering in the desert. Listen tohow God helped Moses.Tell the Story from . Use only the words of the Scripture.
  3. Ruth Meets Boaz took place about 1100 BCDialogue Introduction to the story .After the death of Moses and the battles of conquest under Joshua, Israel andJudah lived under the rule of the JUDGES. During this time there was a famine in the land and a family leftBethlehem and moved to Moa
    b. The sons married Moabite women and when the sons died one of the women, Ruthdecided to follow her mother-in –law Naomi back to Bethlehem. When they got there they were very poor and shewas now in a strange lan
    d. Listen to this story from the Scriptures that tells how God provided for Ruth when she mether dead husband's relative named Boaz.Tell the story from . Use only the words of the Scripture.
  4. David and Mephiboseth took place about 1005 BCDialogue Introduction: David had become the King over all Israel. King Saul was dead and David had won manyvictories over the Phillistines.. David did what was just and right for his peopl
    e. Let's listen to this story about Davidand the mercy he had on Saul's grandson.Tell the Story from 1 Use only the words of the Scripture.
  5. The Widow's Oil took place about 852 BCDialogue Introduction to the story .After the time of Solomon when Joram was the King of Israel and Jehoram wasthe King of Judah there was a great man of God, a prophet, Elisha who had a school for prophets. One of the menfrom the company of prophets die
    d. Listen to this story about his widow.Tell the Story from 1. Use only the words of the Scripture.
  6. The Water of Jericho took place bout 852 BCDialogue Introduction to the story.After the time of Solomon when Joram was the King of Israel and Jehoram was the King of Judah there was a greatman of God, a prophet.Elisha who had a school for prophets. One time Elisha, the prophet and teacher was stayingin Jericho. His company of prophets had returned from a journey. Listen to what happened to them in Jericho.Tell the Story from 1. Use only the words of the Scripture.
  7. Jonah in Ninevah took place about 755 BCDialogue Introduction to the story. Jonah was a prophet of God at the time of the King Jeroboam of Israel. Godasked Jonah to go to the powerful city of Ninevah and preach against it because its wickedness was very great.Jonah ran away from the Lord and at Joppa got on a ship headed to Tarshis. A terrible storm came and the people ofthe ship blamed Jonah and threw him over into the se
    a. A huge fish swallowed Jonah and he was inside the fish forthree days. He cried out to God for mercy and the Lord commanded the fish and it vomited Jonah onto dry lan
    d. ThenJonah was obedient to Go
    d. Listen to this story about what Jonah did as the Lord brought hope to the people ofNineva
    h. Tell the Story from . Use only the words of the Scripture.
  8. Jonah in Ninevah took place about 755 BCDialogue Introduction to the story. Jonah was a prophet of God at the time of the King Jeroboam of Israel. Godasked Jonah to go to the powerful city of Ninevah and preach against it because its wickedness was very great.Jonah ran away from the Lord and at Joppa got on a ship headed to Tarshis. A terrible storm came and the people ofthe ship blamed Jonah and threw him over into the se
    a. A huge fish swallowed Jonah and he was inside the fish forthree days. He cried out to God for mercy and the Lord commanded the fish and it vomited Jonah onto dry lan
    d. ThenJonah was obedient to Go
    d. Listen to this story about what Jonah did as the Lord brought hope to the people ofNineva
    h. Tell the Story from . Use only the words of the Scripture.
  9. Daniel and the Lions took place about 541 BCDialogue Introduction to the story. Daniel was a prophet of God, living in Babylon under King Nebuchadnezzar andthen under his son King Belshazzar. These were kings of the Babylonians. Then Darius, King of the Medes took overthe kingdom. He appointed the prophet Daniel, along with 119 others to administrate the kingdom. One day becauseDaniel would not abandon his worship of the one God he was put into a den of lions. Listen to the story about whatGod di
    d. Tell the Story from . Use only the words of the Scripture.
  10. Nehemiah Helps the Poor took place about 444 BCDialogue Introduction to the story. After the great Kings of Israel like David and Solomon there were many morekings. Some were evil in the sight of God and some were good, but the Hebrew people themselves displeased God inmany ways, especially by worshiping the idols and foreign gods. God allowed the Babylonians to conquer the peopleof Israel and take them into captivity to Babylon. Finally they were released from their captivity. Along with many ofthe freed captives, Nehemiah a great man of God returned to Jerusalem. His desire was to rebuild the wall that hadbeen destroyed by the conquerors. He saw the great injustices done to the common people of Jerusalem and thesurrounding region. Listen to the story from the Scriptures that tell what he did to help the peopl
    e. Tell the story from . Use only the words of the Scripture.
  11. The Healing at the Pool took place about 28 After Christ.Dialogue Introduction: The book of John tells us many stories about Jesus' teaching and miracles. Listen to thisstory of Jesus' great power and his mercy.Tell the Story from . Use only the words of the Scripture.
  12. Jesus teaches the People about 28 After Christ.Dialogue Introduction Soon after Jesus had named his 12 Disciples he was teaching in the countrysid
    e. Some ofthese words are among the most beautiful words Christ spoke to man.Tell the Story from . Use only the words of the Scripture. (Note to storyteller. You may recite thewords like poetry.)
  13. The Parable of the Lost Sheep took place about 29 After Christ.Dialogue Introduction:. Jesus often told parables to the peopl
    e. One day as Jesus was teaching not only hisfollowers were gathered but also the tax collectors and sinners. Listen to this story of what happene
    d. Tell the Story from . Use only the words of the Scripture.
  14. Peter, Aeneas and Tabitha took place about 36 ADDialogue Introduction: The book of Acts tells us about Peter's work sharing the gospel and ministering to thebelievers. Listen to this story about Peter.Tell the Story from . Use only the words of the Scripture.
  15. Paul and Silas in Prison took place about 50 ADDialogue Introduction:. Paul and Silas were in Philippi a Roman colony in Macedoni
    a. Listen to this story aboutwhat happened to them ther
    e. Tell the Story from . Use only the words of the Scripture.
The Prayer Collection25 storiesTell the story, then recite the prayer itself.
  1. A Prayer of Abraham
  2. A Prayer of Abraham's Servant
  3. A Prayer of Jacob
  4. A Prayer of Moses
  5. A Prayer of Samson
  6. A Prayer of Hannah
  7. A Prayer of David
  8. A Prayer of Solomon
  9. A Prayer of Elijah
  10. A Prayer of Jehosaphat
  11. A Prayer of Hezekiah
  12. A Prayer of Job
  13. A Prayer of Ezra
  14. A Prayer of Nehemiah
  15. A Prayer of Jeremiah
  16. A Prayer of Daniel
  17. A Prayer of Jonah
  18. A Prayer of Simeon
  19. A Prayer of Jesus...The Lord's Prayer
  20. A Prayer of Jesus on the Mount of Olives
  21. A Prayer of Jesus for the Believers
  22. A Prayer of the Early Believers
  23. A Prayer of Stephen
  24. A Prayer of Paul for the Ephesians (base narrative on Eph1:1-2 and 6:21-23; Paul probably wrote these prayers andletter from prison in Rome about 60 AD)
  25. A Prayer of Paul for the Philippians (base narrative on Phil 1:1-2. Paul wrote this letter from prison in Rome about 61AD)
The Persecution Collection16 storiesGod's people under pressure — and God's faithfulness.
  1. The Oppression of Israel
  2. Bricks without Straw
  3. Opposition
  4. Queen Esther
  5. Jeremiah Threatened with Death
  6. Jeremiah in Prison
  7. Shadrack, Michach, Abednego
  8. Daniel and the Lion's Den
  9. Parable of the Sower
  10. Apostles Persecuted
  11. Stoning of Stephen
  12. Conversion of Paul
  13. Peter's Escape from Prison
  14. Paul is Stoned
  15. Paul's StoryGal 1:11-24
  16. Heroes of the Faith
The Parables Collection30 storiesThe stories Jesus told.
  1. The Sower
  2. The Weeds ; continued
  3. The Mustard SeedMatt13:31-32;
  4. The Yeast
  5. The Hidden Treasure
  6. The Pearl
  7. The Net
  8. The Lost Sheep
  9. The Unmerciful Servant
  10. The Workers in the Vineyard
  11. The Two Sons
  12. The Tenants
  13. The Wedding Banquet
  14. The Ten Virgens
  15. The Talents
  16. New Garment, New Wineskins
  17. The Wise and Foolish Builders
  18. The Good Samaritan
  19. The Rich Fool
  20. The Watchful Servant
  21. The Great Banquet
  22. The Tower
  23. The King that Goes to War
  24. The Lost Coin
  25. The Lost Son
  26. The Shrewd Manager
  27. The Rich Man and Lazarus
  28. The Persistent Widow
  29. The Pharisee and the Tax Collector
  30. The Ten Minas
The Genealogy Collection17 storiesFor cultures that recite and esteem genealogies.
  1. From Adam to Noah
  2. The Clans of Noah's Sons
  3. From Shem to Abraham
  4. The Sons of Ishmael
  5. The Descendants of Abraham and Keturah
  6. The Descendants of Esau
  7. The Sons of Jacob in Egypt
  8. The Descendants of the 12 Tribes
  9. The Genealogy of David
  10. Historical Records from Adam to AbrahamI Chronicles: 1 and 2
  11. The Sons of David
  12. The Kings of Judah
  13. The Genealogy of Saul
  14. The Exiles who Returned from Babylon
  15. Those who Returned with Ezra
  16. The Genealogy of Jesus
  17. The Genealogy of Jesus from Luke
The Poetry Collection32 storiesBiblical poetry as oral literature — recitations for oral cultures.
  1. In the Beginning
  2. A Song of Moses
  3. A Song of Deborah
  4. David's Song of Praise
  5. Our Days on Earth
  6. The Psalms
  7. The Wife of Noble Character
  8. A Time for Everything
  9. Wisdom
  10. Remember your Creator
  11. The Song of SongsSong of Songs Chapter 1-8
  12. To Us a Child is Born
  13. A Song of Praise
  14. Comfort for God's People
  15. The Servant -end and 53:1-13
  16. The Year of the Lord's Favor
  17. Everlasting Love
  18. A Lament for Israel's Princes
  19. The Day of the Lord
  20. A Promised Ruler from Bethlehem
  21. Habakkuk's Prayer
  22. Gather Together
  23. The Lord Cares for Judah
  24. Zechariah's Song
  25. Mary's Song
  26. The Beatitudes
  27. Do not Worry
  28. The Word became Flesh
  29. The Depth of God's Wisdom
  30. The Greatest is Love
  31. The Nature of Jesus
  32. He Who Sits on the Throne
Animist-Sensitive Collection23 pairingsReference only — not a final list. Each need or worldview issue is paired with the story that answers it.

Stories for Evangelism — a narrative answer to human needs

Hunger and Poverty→Elijah is Fed by Ravens
Lack of Hope (Fatalism)→Water from the Rock
Illness→Naaman Healed of Leprosy
Fear of Death and of the Dead→Rich Man and Lazarus
Lack of Peace, Anger, Hatred→Jesus the Bread of Life
Oppression by majority or dominant society, poor self esteem→Jesus Washes the Feet
Fear of Evil Spirits and curses of enemy→A Slave Girl is Healed
Troubling Dreams→Madness of Nebuchadnezzar
Infertility→Ana and Her Faith
Fear of the Companion Spirit (totem, evil eye, omens and sorcery)→Sorcerer Elymas & Paul

Stories for Discipleship — a narrative theology

Worship of Idols, saints, multiple gods→The Riot in Ephesus
Need to Pacify the spirit world→The Woman of Faith
God is distant→God Speaks to Abraham
All animals and nature have supernatural spirit→Jesus Calms the Storm
gods communicate by nature & spirits→Jacob and the Angel
Need to appease spirit world→Books of Sorcery Burned
Blood sacrifice…spirits require offeringand also punishment→The Lamb of GodGen 22:1-19 and Recitation of
Community responsible for harmony with spirit world and ancestors→Jesus & Power over Supernatural
All illness is spiritual …need to pacify→The Dead Girl is Raised
Need to consult healer/shaman→The Witch at Endor
Reverence for Magic/Divination→The Diviners of the King
Eternity is an unknown concept→Jesus and Nicodemus
Symbols like cross or Bible are transformed into magical fetishes→The Idols of Micah
Muslim-Sensitive Collection30 pairingsReference only — not a final list. Each need or worldview issue is paired with the story that answers it.

Stories for Evangelism — a narrative answer to human needs

Economic→Elijah fed by the Ravens
Sickness→Naaman Healed of Leprosy
Relationships→The Lost Son
Need of Hope→Water from the Rock
Fear→Daniel in the Lions' Den
Death→The Rich Man and Lazarus
Troubling Dreams→Madness of Nebuchadnezzar
Justice and Equality→Bricks without Straw
Need for Peace→Jesus Comforts His Disciples
Fear of the Djinn→Simon the Magician
Fear of Persecution→John and Peter in Prison
Paranoia and Conspiracy→Joseph and His Brothers Gen 44:1-45 or Daniel and the Fiery Furnace
Infertility→Ana and her Faith

Stories for Discipleship — a narrative theology

God is Distant, uncommunicative→God's Promise to Abraham
Man does not sin by nature→The Fall of Man
Salvation is through works→Jesus Pardons a Sinful Woman
Dishonesty is ok if not caught→Ananias and Sapphira
No understanding of Grace→Joseph Explains Grace
Nature of God misunderstood→God is Holy. 10 Commandments
View of Ancient Heritage→Abrahm's Call Genesis 11:26-13:4
Reveres the line of Ishmael→The Covenant Genesis 15:1-17:22
Consults the sorcerer→Saul at Endor
Disputes the Death andResurrection of Christ→Death and Resurrection Matt 27:32-28:18
Disputes the Deity of Christ→The Prophet John Identifies Jesus
Disputes that Jesus was Sinless→The Temptation
View of Reciprocity→Abraham Intercedes for Sodom
Mohammed is the Mediator→Jesus Prays in the Garden John 17:1-18:1
Purpose of Sacrifice→The Lamb of God Gen 22:1-19 ( Isaiah 53:1-12)
Role of the Marabout vsServanthood→Jesus Washes Disciples' Feet
Lack of Humility→The Pharisee and Tax Collector
Buddhist-Sensitive Collection20 pairingsReference only — not a final list. Each need or worldview issue is paired with the story that answers it.

Stories for Evangelism — a narrative answer to human needs

Sickness→Naaman Healed of Leprosy
Need of Hope→Water from the Rock
Fear→Daniel in the Lions' Den
Need for Peace→Jesus Comforts Disciples
Fear of Spirits→Simon the Magician
Suffering→Jesus Heals Woman
Pride→Pharisee and Tax Collector
Helplessness→The Widow's Oil
Death→The Rich Man and Lazarus
Love→The Good Samaritan

Stories for Discipleship — a narrative theology

No God, No Creator→The Creation Genesis 1:1-2:4b
No Christ→Peter Identifies Jesus
Karma→Jesus Heals the Blind Man
Merit-earning→Joseph Explains Grace
Man is not an individual being→Creation of Adam and Eve Gen. 2:4b-25
Samsara, The Cycle→The Resurrection
Dharma…works…salvation→Jesus Heals Paralytic
Enlightenment→Jesus and Zacchaeus
Nirvana→Woman at the Well
Power Encounter→Story of Lazarus John 11:1-43 (also see Power Encounter Collection)
Hindu-Sensitive Collection20 pairingsReference only — not a final list. Each need or worldview issue is paired with the story that answers it.

Stories for Evangelism — a narrative answer to human needs

Poverty→The Widow's Oil
Disease→A Crippled Woman Healed
Lack of Hope→Healing at the Pool
Lack of Peace→Jesus the Bread of Life
Fear of Demons/Spirits→A Slave Girl is Healed
Troubling Dreams→Solomon's Dream
The Caste System→Jesus at the Pharisee's
Need of a god who will listen→Gideon talks to God
Fear of Persecution→John and Peter in Prison
Love→The Good Samaritan

Stories for Discipleship — a narrative theology

Misconceptions about Creation→The Creation Genesis 1:1-2:4
Belief it is sin to call one a sinner→Sin Enters the World
Multitudes of unknowable gods→Image of Gold
Idolatry→Micah's Idols
Lack of belief in Grace…noassurance of pleasing ones gods→Jesus and Grace
Jesus as appearance of Krishna→Who Jesus Is
Reincarnation and endless rebirth→Rich Man and Lazarus
Need to understand true Sacrificeand shedding of Blood→The Lamb of God Genesis 22:1-19 and recitation of
Hold of Hindu society on individual→Cost of Following Christ
Ritual and offerings for petitions→The Woman of Faith

Breathe in — hear the Word • Breathe out — obey it & share it with others