06.24.08
Yet Another Way to Study in Groups: “Storying”
Mountain Christian’s small groups span the spectrum of methods for the intentional study time of group gatherings: traditional teacher presenting content w/ some q&a (Bible school); facilitator-guided discussion (Serendipity Bible style – what my Wed 6a men’s group uses); DVD teaching from “big-name” speaker w/ workbooks; book-club-style reading through a popular Christian devotional; etc.
In yet another example of the old becoming new, missionaries have long recognized that cultures communicate differently – with some especially emphasizing oral story-telling: combining story w/ poetry, music, role play, object lesson, and even motions to make narratives more memorable. Western culture, the US being a prime example, has long been considered a “literate culture” emphasizing the written word, and beyond that – a linear, outline style (Powerpoints ad infinitum anyone?)
Mountain’s current message series “Around the Word in 80 Days” opened w/ a storying / orality style introduction to Genesis by Ethan M. With Ben C & Rob K’s prompting, I’m laying groundwork for exploring storying as a small group study method for interested MCC small group leaders. Here are some websites to check if you’re curious:
http://www.oralbible.com/resources.php
http://www.chronologicalbiblestorying.com/
http://www.thejavaclub.org/houseblend.html
NACC: better disciples and Bible tools « more better disciples said,
July 11, 2008 at 7:29 AM
[...] my host MCC lead pastor Ben Cachiaras). Bruce’s influence led Ben to prompt me to explore storying as teaching method for MCC small [...]
Around the Word in 80 Days « more better disciples said,
July 27, 2008 at 3:31 PM
[...] MCC groups use a variety of methods during the discussion-learning-study time, here’s a practical article, Using Parables, teaching like Jesus by telling [...]