The children’s evangelist needs to be a good storyteller. A Bible story, well told, can be an attractive introduction to the understanding of Bible truths, which God can use to save children and help them grow spiritually. This principle is wonderfully displayed in the teaching ministry of the Lord Jesus.

But remember: the story must be well told, or it will have little effect. The effectiveness of your story depends on two factors:

1. The thoroughness of your preparation
2. The attractiveness of your presentation

Step 1: Prepare Thoroughly

The first thing to do in your preparation is to read your Bible passage (for example, Luke 19:1-10) five or six times. Also, read any other materials or information you have on that passage and glance at what precedes and follows it.

You need to be familiar with the passage before you start preparing your teaching plan. A well-prepared plan will help you tell your story effectively.

Step 2: Make a Written Plan

Start making a written plan of what you will say. This plan will guide your storytelling and ensure you stay on track.

A good teaching plan consists of four parts or stages:

1. Introduction — A brief, interesting introduction that leads your listeners into the story.
2. Sequence of Events — List all the events in the passage or story vertically, one after the other.
3. Climax — The point when the children’s attention is most focused and they want to see the result.
4. Conclusion — A brief paragraph that draws the story to a close and gives a personal challenge.

Step 3: Prepare Your Introduction

The introduction is extremely important. Many storytellers do not realize its role as the gateway to your story. If you do not capture the children’s interest at the start, you may lose it later.

Your introduction should:

• Be a short paragraph
• Catch interest immediately
• Lead naturally into the narrative

❌ Wrong Ways to Begin Your Introduction

Avoid these approaches for obvious reasons:

1. “Now sit still while I tell you a story.”
2. “Have you heard the story about Zacchaeus?” (What do you do if they say “Yes”?)
3. “Would you like to hear the story of Zacchaeus?” (What would you do if they say “No”?)
4. “Now, sit up. Fold your arms. Be quiet. I am going to tell you a story.”

✅ Right Ways to Begin Your Introduction

Instead, start with action or curiosity:

• “I never saw a man climb a tree as quickly as he did. Why is he hiding behind the leaves? Is he hiding from someone?”
• “If the Queen was to visit our city, town, or village and there were crowds of people everywhere, how could a small boy see her if he was standing behind the crowd?”

Or, use a simple illustration:

• “What should I do when I lose my car keys? What would a shepherd do if he lost a sheep? I know a shepherd who lost one of his sheep. What did he do?”

Tip: When you decide on your introduction, learn it by heart. This allows you to start your story without hesitation or stumbling.

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* This is an extract from Mini Mag (NO.63) by Sam Doherty. Sam, who introduced the work of Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) in Ireland and later served as Regional Director in Europe, shares his insights on 75 years of ministry in this publication.