Biblical Storytelling Design

“Human beings love stories. We love to hear them and tell them. Our stories shape who we are. Over the past few decades, evangelists, Bible teachers, and church planters have discovered the importance and art of telling stories in ministry. In this new book, Jim Roché adds to this momentum by presenting a practical guide for gospel storytelling that will equip cross-cultural workers as well people ministering within their home cultures. I recommend it.”


—Edward L. Smither, Dean, Professor of Intercultural Studies, Columbia International University





“Jim Roché’s well-researched and thoroughly field-tested model not only helps us understand why we must appreciate story form but also how we must understand and apply best practices and avoid common fatal flaws associated with its use among people for whom story form is crucial to their literacy level and central to their cultural fabric. It is essential reading for those of us who are passionate not merely to broadcast biblical truth but instead to instill and perpetuate it on behalf of global church multiplication.”


—Ralph E. Enlow Jr., President, Association for Biblical Higher Education





“As a doctor of education who is well versed in principles of pedagogy, Jim Roché provides a professional handling of storytelling, especially in oral cultures, that is second to none. This fresh look at biblical storytelling provides practical ways to craft oral biblical stories and lessons that are applicable to any culture. Roché expertly weaves the how and why of storytelling through step-by-step considerations that ultimately leads to effective curriculum design, which in turn leads to effective communication of biblical truth.”


—Marvin J. Newell, Senior Vice President, Missio Nexus





“Dr. Jim Roché helps give a broader understanding, beyond storytelling, of the multiple aspects of the orality movement. I believe his book can be a great tool, not only for those who are new to orality and biblical story telling, but also to those who are advanced practitioners. I highly recommend Jim’s book to anyone interested in the Great Commission and pray that it receives wide distribution.”


—Jerry Wiles, North America Regional Director, International Orality Network; President Emeritus, Living Water International





“The reader will quickly sense the passion Dr. Roché has for storytelling. His experience, research, and practiced educational principles make this book a valuable tool for both the beginner and veteran storyteller. An educator at heart, the author leads the reader through a process whereby this ancient art form becomes a powerful means for communicating truth, a form which encourages reflection, absorption, and incorporation into patterns of obedience. Structured use of story breathes life into teaching and quickens life in listeners.”


—Duane H. Elmer, Distinguished Professor of Educational Studies Emeritus, G. W. Aldeen Professor of International Studies (Retired), Trinity International University





“When our church planters forge rivers, cross rugged terrain, or scale mountains to reach previously unreached people groups with the gospel of God’s redeeming grace, they will inevitably encounter communities of predominantly non-literate families. How can they communicate the written word of God to those who cannot read—and in a way that helps those same people communicate to their own cultural network, in a manner familiar to them? . . . This book explains how to leave witnesses who have that story indelibly recorded in their hearts and minds.”


—Peter W. Law, President, ENGAGE International





“Jim Roché has used his formal learning and doctoral understanding of education and curriculum planning to teach us through this excellent book how to become storytellers ourselves—to tell stories like our grandparents and culture did, with a moral so that we may pass on to others how to live. I strongly encourage colleagues, friends, and especially fellow educators to use this excellent book to teach their students how to teach effectively.”


—Junias Venugopal, Associate Dean, School of Mission, Ministry, and Leadership, Wheaton College