Stories are the best way to make a point.
While obviously important, theological exposition is boring and will put people to sleep. But a snoozing audience will immediately wake up when the pastor begins a story.
The best way to make a point is with a story.
Jesus told stories. We call them parables, which might sound religious, but we can be sure they they were relevant and relational, causing people to wonder, ask question, and consider what they might want to change about their behavior.
Let’s tell a story:
His love for golf led Jim to want his game to improve, but how could he do that? Frustrated, he bought a series of videos that claimed to be just what he needed. He chose the perfect clubs, the ones that the pros used for amazingly long, accurate drives, and put them in his golf bag stored in the garage. Day after day, he watched the videos.
Jim read books and asked advice. He watched every golf tournament on TV. Still, he seemed to be getting no better.
“How often do you play,” a friend asked as he putted for a birdie.
“Well it’s not like I can get out here every day. I do have a job, you know. And then there’s the wife and kids.”
“Reasons not to play are easy,” the friend said, “and if you make it once a month, that can be fun. But if you really want to get better, you should play at least nine holes every day.”
Here’s the point:
Writing is like learning any other skill. Attending seminars, reading books, and getting advice will help you write better, but only if you make time to write something regularly.
Play every day if you can.
And then you’ll be making the right stroke.
