Wisdom Stories

Wisdom stories are those stories which illustrate the truth of the Gospel for the hearer in fresh and creative ways. These can be ancient parables from the great faith traditions or illustrations from pop culture. They can be one of those many old stories and jokes which are attributed to unknown or they can come from modern spiritual classics. A few of them will even be stories of my own creation.

What these stories have in common is that they illustrate they explore profound theological truths using images and archetypes that the hearer will easily grasp. These stories are in the tradition of Jesus who spoke of the unseen and unfathomable God as shepherd, King, and loving Father— who described God’s Kingdom as a tiny seed, a bit of yeast, and as hidden treasure.

While the stories will be selected to pair with the text of the week, I think you’ll find that they are infinitely adaptable. By learning these stories, you will not only build up a wisdom repertoire (which will allow you to give a devotion any time anywhere), but you will begin to see how their simple constructions can be used to create parables of your own.

My prayer is that these stories would help you as you infuse the wisdom of the ages into your own sermons. May your hearers discover in them the language to remember the truth and to share the truth.