For a decade my wife and I have been leading a study called "The Story of God." Basically, we retell familiar biblical narratives in plain, contemporary language. We share these stories creatively and in chronological order. It's our way of introducing others to the epic story we find in Scripture, a story we believe many of us have yet to truly hear. We've been able to include a diverse group of people in these studies. Jenny, a single mom and recovering addict, started reading the Bible but found it confusing, so she decided to come. Anne, a school teacher, close to retirement, who was wrestling with questions about God, family, and purpose, joined us. Then there was "John," a small business owner and faithful church member looking for a different kind of Bible study.

Over the course of 12 weeks, we sat around the campfire (a pile of candles), under the stars (Christmas lights strung across the ceiling), and listened to the story together. After hearing the story, everyone made art and ...