When the ideas of God are embedded in story form, the truth resonates with both heart and mind, maximizing the potential impact in the life of those who are drawn into the story.
God’s purposes for the sphere of celebration is to strengthen hope and build community. We read in the Scriptures that “Jubal… was the father of all who play the harp and flute” (Gen 4:21). Ever since then, balladeers and artists have used their skills to entertain people and speak to the heart of their culture. In the Bible, these artistic gifts are often identified with the role of the prophetic ministry. When the ideas of God are embedded in story form, the truth resonates with both heart and mind, maximizing the potential impact in the life of those who are drawn into the story. Thus the arts allow truth to touch the senses, inform the mind, engage the emotions, challenge the will, and change the life. It allows for a holistic presentation of truth that engages the whole person in a transforming way. At the same time, story has the power to create identity and community. As individuals identify with a common story they are drawn together into one body with one purpose. Stories of God’s work in the past build hope for the future. They become a means of inspiration, giving strength and courage to face the ever present challenges of life’s journey.