Creating Stories That Connect: A Pastor's Guide to Storytelling
An exemplar storyteller, Jesus was also a consummate storymaker, able to encapsulate truth in the unforgettable ministry stories we call parables. He answered questions, explained his teachings, defended his actions, and challenged his opponents through stories.Creating Stories That Connectshows ministry leaders how these stories work, when to use them, and how to create them. This creative, practical guide promises to help all readers enhance their effectiveness in preaching, counseling, and other leadership activities.Beginning with an overview of story theory and the six ways stories are used, experienced pastor and storymaker Bruce Seymour details how story elements come together to form an effective narrative. Seymour also discusses parables, fables, and figurative language, and describes how a story is the best way to challenge beliefs or behaviors. In addition to careful instruction about how to write stories, the book includes twenty examples of original ministry stories created by the author.“Theologically and practically Bruce Seymour is, in my opinion, right on the mark. When I analyzed my own preaching, after readingCreating Stories That Connect, I realized that many of my most ‘successful’ sermons are built around story and parable. His thoughts have caused me to rethink all of my speaking opportunities—both brief and extended.Creating Stories That Connectwill make a strong addition to the styles of many preachers communicating to the contemporary scene.”—John A. MartinPresident, Roberts Wesleyan CollegeD. Bruce Seymour(Th.M., Dallas Theological Seminary; D.Min., Talbot School of Theology) is senior pastor of New Monmouth Baptist Church in Middletown, New Jersey. He and his wife, Connie, have three adult children.