Gordon G. Johnson is a fascinating storyteller. As former dean and professor of preaching emeritus at Bethel Seminary, his rich memories of how God has worked in and through Bethel bring joy to one’s heart and increase one’s faith in God. Dean in St. Paul during the seminary’s 1977 expansion to San Diego, Johnson tells of the challenge to earn accreditation, and the pleasure of attaining that goal at a time when seminaries with multiple campuses were nearly unheard of. Under his care Bethel Seminary grew exponentially, and many individuals who were students then are internationally recognized leaders today, including Leland Eliason, who now holds the reigns at Bethel Seminary as executive vice president and provost.

It’s no surprise, then, that this inveterate storyteller, whose 1957 book My Church continues to sell today, has written Making God Known Through Story, recently released by Pleasant Word Publishers. The 139-page paperback instructs pastors and teachers how to effectively interpret and communicate the three-fourths of the Bible devoted to stories. Johnson says effective speakers from all walks of life use storytelling to drive home their points. Having taught the material in his latest book many times, he was eager to share what he has learned with other laborers for the kingdom.

Indeed, Johnson’s readers learn from the master. Engaging and compelling are his tales of men and women who have faithfully served the Lord on the mission field, and of his many trips to visit missionaries the world over. Names of evangelical leaders roll off his tongue, and the history of vital overseas ministries is woven into the fabric of his manifold career. With Johnson, you hear the whole - the beginning, middle, and end. He’ll tell you the story of missions in the Philippines, the post-World War II struggle tobegin ministry, and the nationals who now minister confidently in the Lord’s name. Well into his ninth decade of life, Gordon Johnson is still telling the story of God’s faithfulness.

"I believe the Bible is relevant," Johnson says. "Seventy-five percent of it is narrative. Relevant stories of the Bible - when effectively told - will reach the postmodern audience." To the would-be storytellers among us, he offers these tips:

"Learn to tell stories effectively. Be certain the climax doesn't come too soon. There is a difference between the intellectual climax and the emotional. The emotional punch must come near the end. And be certain your imagination does not carry you beyond the clear point of the Bible story."

Johnson’s favorite narratives of the Bible include stories of Joseph, whose great loss, captivity, and obedience led to the freedom of an entire nation. Johnson also delights in reading about Jesus as an effective storyteller. Among his favorites of Jesus’ stories is "The Shrewd Manager," in which Jesus said, "For the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of light" (Luke 16:8).

Gordon Johnson, retired dean and professor, storyteller, and follower of his Lord lives in New Brighton, Minn., with his wife and ministry partner, Alta. What bit of advice might this wise leader offer to the Bethel Seminary community today? "Honor your evangelical heritage. Give it your best. We can be very grateful for our heritage."

Barbara Wright Carlson, St. Paul, Minn., is a freelance writer and former editor of Heart & Mind.

Making God Known Through Story may be purchased online at amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com.