Seven ways that Churches Benefit from Orality Principles

Orality is one of the most highly reproducible methods for bringing spiritual transformation for a church. Proven methods that I picked up in 1992 are still just as viable all these years later. At first we all thought oral methods of conveying the Bible was just for low-level readers. But then it began to multiply on college campuses and in small groups where literacy wasn’t an issue. God wired us for stories—His stories!

Consider these facts and then I’ll tell you how your church can benefit.

:: LifeWay research in 2018 showed that only 22% of evangelicals have a college degree or graduate degree. The other 78% are very likely oral learners. And of those that self-identified as evangelical, 76% had not finished college. The most highly-literate approaches in society are employed by church leaders who are increasingly in dissonance from those who are disenfranchised from a church that requires literacy in order to fully participate.

:: Only a small percentage in your church — about 13% — are proficient at reading. You and I might enjoy reading for enjoyment or to learn, but the rest are increasingly oral.

:: Evangelical pastors can be much more relevant with those in their churches. Orality gives you insights into crossing that divide and entering a world where people ache for biblical truth.

:: Bible studies in your church can be healthier and grow faster when oral methods are used. Participants arrive hungry to master the lesson so they can pass it along to others during the week. The lessons launch weekly movements at work, recreations, or social gatherings. “Hey, did you hear the story about…”

Now, here are seven ways that churches that use oral-friendly methods benefit:

1. Evangelism becomes more conversational and relevant. Scripture in the form of specific stories address deeply held values.

2. Streamlines and focuses church priorities. A decision to make disciples as a priority puts everything else the church does in line with the Great Commission.

3. Simplifies the discipleship process. You don’t have to be a biblical expert to lead a small group.

4. Multiplies small groups leading to numerical growth. Reproducibility is the key. New leaders are constantly mentored. Each new group must examine three things: Can this become a new church? Can this become a new small group? Should we become part of another existing group?

5. Experiential Bible study engages not just multiple senses, but often the emotions. And emotions etch memories.

6. Bible study is applicable to real life. It’s not theoretical. We know this works.

7. Participants can no longer “hide,” but will be expected to grow spiritually, apply the lesson, and be held accountable.

Mark Snowden has been an orality trainer and curriculum developer for more than 30 years. He leads the Cincinnati Area Baptist Association. 

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