READ EXODUS 9:13-10:29
Understanding God's Big Story
As humans, we naturally interpret everything around us, looking for meaning and trying to make sense of our experiences. However, we often misinterpret events by viewing ourselves as the main character in our own story, rather than recognizing we are part of God's greater narrative.
Why Do We Need to Become Better Bible Storytellers?
The Bible tells the true story of God's work in the world, even when people don't recognize it. As believers, we need to become better at sharing these stories because:
- People need to understand both what God has done and what it means before they can respond properly
- The Bible's stories point to Jesus and reveal God's character
- Others around us are misinterpreting events through wrong narratives
What Can We Learn from Pharaoh's Story?
The account of Pharaoh in Exodus 9-10 demonstrates how people can be blinded by their own narrative:
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Pharaoh grew up believing he was a junior god with absolute power
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He interpreted everything through this lens, even when confronted with clear signs from God
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His hardened heart prevented him from accepting the true story God was telling
Who Needs to Hear God's Story?
The plagues in Egypt reached four key audiences that mirror those who need to hear God's story today:
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Hard-hearted people like Pharaoh who need to see God's power
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Those around them (like the Egyptians) who might be ready to believe
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God's people who need reassurance of His care and power
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Future generations who need to know who God is
How Can We Become Better Bible Storytellers?
Three practical steps to improve:
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Notice how the Bible connects events with their meaning
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Believe that you are called to be a storyteller and commit to growing in this role
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Practice telling Bible stories to different audiences:
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Those who are resistant
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Those who are seeking
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Fellow believers who need encouragement
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The next generation
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Life Application
This week, challenge yourself to:
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Identify which stories you're telling yourself - are they aligned with God's truth?
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Find one Bible story to learn well enough to share with others
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Look for opportunities to tell that story to someone in each of the four audience categories
Ask yourself:
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What false narratives am I believing about my life?
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Who in my life needs to hear God's story this week?
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How can I better prepare myself to share Bible stories effectively?
Remember: You are part of God's story, and He has called you to share it with others. Start small, but start today.