Did you know that over 40% of the Bible is narrative? When studying the Bible we need to treat apocalyptic literature like what we find in the book of Revelation or Ezekiel differently than an epistle like Colossians or 1 Peter. We have to consider the differences between a work of poetry in the Psalms and a Persian official’s letter in Ezra. We want to read to understand what God has given us in His word so we must take different forms of literature into account.
The “stories” in Scripture are not fairy tales or legends. They are historical events. History is good storytelling — the telling of real events in story form. But the word “story” reminds us that the Holy Spirit told us what happened in a particular way for specific reasons. Analyzing the text can help us to see what we are intended to glean and not get lost in the details.
God uses language to its greatest potential, providing themes and character arcs that give us the best opportunity to understand and apply the Bible. Literary devices such as metaphor, theme, foreshadowing, and allusion are used to deepen our connection with what God is saying in the text. These narratives convey deep truths through implication and approved example rather than direct commands. Sometimes when studying the Scriptures with someone we hope will become a Christian we notice they are understanding the truth of the Bible intellectually but are not connecting emotionally. In this state they are unlikely to change their lives to obey the gospel. If we want to reach someone emotionally, Bible narrative is the way to do it!
Great narratives in the Scriptures would include but not be limited to the creation, the flood, the life of Abraham, the life of David, the life of Christ, and the beginning and growth of the church. You could even include the overall story of the Bible, God’s scheme of redemption as one massive narrative. Other, smaller narratives can be helpful as well. Studying the narrative of Cain and Abel can teach the slippery slope of sin and to not to allow our own wrongdoing to lead to hating the righteous (Gen. 4:1-15). Examining Joseph’s actions surrounding the conception of the Savior helps us to appreciate his character and draws us to defend innocent Mary, who needed him by her side (Matt. 1:18-25). The lame man at the temple healed by Peter gives us insight into our deep need for the Savior (Acts 3:1-11).
You can also study entire Bible books that are narratives. The book of Genesis teaches us about sin and death, faith, and the consequences of deception. The book of Acts provides invaluable insight into the way the church can continue to operate despite challenges from persecution, unruly members, periods of quick growth, racial and cultural prejudices, and forgiveness of deeply wrong actions.
Narrative is how children are often introduced to the Bible. These Bible accounts fascinate them and they become hungry to learn more. The lessons we can draw from these accounts increase and deepen as we age. Reaching adulthood is not a good reason to move on from studying Bible narratives.
-Ross Haffner