RESONANCE AND SYNERGY: THE IMPACT OF ORAL BIBLE STORYTELLING IN RURAL ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Mission strategists have recognized that the largest and fastest growing populations in the world tend to be oral learners who use primarily oral means for communication, processing knowledge, and establishing it as authoritative. This article explores the findings of a study on the impact of the Simply the Story method, an oral method of Bible storytelling, among rural village communities in Ethiopia. The combined effect of internalization of the biblical stories through memorization, use of group discussion to provoke critical reflection, and interpretation of the narratives through formulaic questions that explore the literary conventions of plot and characterizations seemed to create a dynamic synergy that empowered members of marginalized communities to deeply engage the biblical text and come to rich, appropriate interpretation in the context of a supportive, relational environment. This brought profound levels of individual and communal transformation and skill development that empowered the participants to train others and engage in effective evangelism.