The Story: Read the Story, Experience the Bible

by Bill Maxon

In September, you will see our commitment to ministry aligning as we enter into an overview of the Bible, through the best-selling, abridged, chronological Bible called The Story. More than 90% of the book is comprised of scripture directly from the NIV Bible, without verse references in the text. The segments of scripture are woven together with plainly identified, transition texts, written to connect the storyline -so it reads as a seamless story that it is.

For people new to the Bible, this way of reading scripture reduces the intimidation that one can feel when approaching the full-length, unabridged Bible, and it gives them a holistic and sequential picture of the story-line of Scripture. For seasoned veterans, the chronological arrangement of the essential texts reveals the way the whole Bible fits together in a single grand narrative. I have about finished my first reading and find myself refreshed and awakened to God’s grand story in a way that I have never been before. Our story is a part of God’s greater story. And, by reading and reflecting, we can begin to understand how our story fits into God’s grander scheme.


Research has proven, not to mention what the Bible says about itself, that nothing will move the maturity of our relationship with Christ further and faster than reflection on Scripture. Every area of our ministry is planning to align itself with our efforts around The Story in some way. From Children to Adults, opportunities
to reflect will be offered in Sunday School classes and small groups and more.

The emphasis will begin with 40 days of prayer starting on July 30. Then, the series will “Kick-Off” with an introductory message on September 1. Youth, and Adult books will be available for purchase at a reduced rate beginning August 25. A reading plan will be provided, complete with Biblical passages, for those who might choose not to purchase The Story. Life Group curriculum and books will be available also.

Finally the sermons each week will focus on one of the chapters from The Story. The plan is for everyone to read to prepare for the instruction they will experience through the preaching each Sunday. Reflection happens best when engaged in conversation with others. So, all life groups are invited to join in, and new groups will be formed as well. In addition Facebook Forums, Sermon Notes and individual Reflection Guides will be prepared each week to facilitate people in their quest.