“Ivan Illich was once asked, ‘What is the most revolutionary way to change society: is it violent revolution or gradual reform.’ He gave a careful answer: ‘Neither. If you want to change society then
you must tell an alternative story,’ he concluded.”
(Tim Costello quoted in Organic Church, 123)

Story is central to our lives. We live in a “story” that we call life - it has a beginning, a middle and an end. We tell stories along the way as our lives unfold in order to make sense of things. In the modern era, story as a means of passing on our faith and values was replaced largely by “information transfer.” This has proved disastrous. Information alone can never captivate or transform the human heart and mind. Story, however, has the power to transform. In our times, many are returning to the use of story as means to “contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints” (Jude 3). This post will explore some key ideas and key resources related to understanding and using story as a means to think about and talk about our faith.
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I am often asked to recommend study bibles and in the past I have suggested either the NASB or NIV study bible as among best. Now there is another excellent resource to add to the list - The ESV Study Bible.

The ESV Study Bible was just released in October of 2008. It is the most comprehensive study bible released to date with over 20,000 notes, 50 articles, 200 charts, 200 full color maps and many excellent full color illustrations. I have been scanning the introductions to the books and looking through the helpful articles and I have to say that this is one of the best study Bibles I have ever seen. Read More...

Over the past several weeks, we have been working to improve the website. We have had several of you say how much you have enjoyed being able to listen to the classes online and download them to your computer or iPod. Here a several new things that you may want to check out: Read More...

I had a fantastic time in San Antonio working with the students at His Hill. I think I learned more than they did! I was able to give a broad overview of the MilktoMeat curriculum in about 12 hours. This has really helped clarify what to do for a 12 hour “bootcamp” introduction to MTM. I would encourage you to check out His Hill and the Torchbearer schools. They are doing an awesome work training students in the Word, equipping them to live life for the glory of God in Christ. You can find out more about them here.

I appreciate all your prayers for this. Keep on praying for the opportunities that are still ahead to spread the truth of the Gospel. / ST

We have a lot going on in the first part of 2008. In February I will be teaching a four week overview of the Book of Daniel at First Evan here in Memphis. I have to cover 12 chapters of some of the most difficult material in the prophets in four weeks! I am praying for wisdom on this one. I will also be speaking at the ECS chapel on Thursday February 7. In May I will be teaching for a week at His Hill in San Antonio TX. Read More...