"Where and how you begin the story, and where and how you end the story, shape and determine what story you're telling." Rob Bell
I'm two teachers into my new season on studying the art of preaching and teaching and both Jon Ortberg and Rob Bell have given me much to think about. January to March has been a busy season of sharing and speaking for me as I've prepared and taught more than I have before and felt like I am embarking on another steep learning curve.
Three or four years ago I realised that if I wanted the honour of speaking to people about Jesus then I needed to tame my gab and feed my heart and mind. After taking a year and a half hiatus from speaking to study a bit and pray I dove back in with a new passion and a real joy in God's word. (Wow - there was I time I never thought I'd say that!)
A few years on I feel I've made a good stab at implementing the things I've been learning and focussing on and I'm feeling a renewed season of focus and stretching is needed. I'm seeking out resources! Anyone got any?
I started with Jon Ortberg's sessions on Crafting Life Changing Messages (lots of food for thought!) and now I'm working my way through Rob Bell's Poets & Preachers videos. (Absolutely brilliant!) I have such a long way to go, and so much to learn… but I want to be a courageous encourager to my Revs church family and others I get to hang out with.
As I look afresh at my study life, the way I approach messages and my identity as a daughter in God I am so grateful that I get to do this. I never want to lose sight of what an honour and joy it is.
Stream of consciousness / update over. If anyone has any suggestions of books or speakers who could stretch and shape me on the topic of preaching and teaching I'd love to hear about them in comments :)