New Living Translation of Matthew 28:19:
"Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations. Baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And I will be with you always, to the end of the age."
Fictional Narrative Writing Prompt:
Title: "The Call to Discipleship"
Characters:
- Jasmine: A determined and compassionate leader of a local community group.
- Lisa: A curious and skeptical friend of Jasmine who often questions faith.
- Bruce: A tech-savvy individual with a passion for outreach through social media.
- Charlie: An artist who uses his creative talents to share powerful messages.
- Shawn: A quiet thinker who struggles with self-doubt but has a heart for helping others.
Prompt Directions:
-
Character Exploration:
Begin by delving into the backgrounds of each character. What are their beliefs, fears, and motivations? How do they view the concept of discipleship? -
Setting the Scene:
Choose a modern-day setting where these characters can interact and discuss their lives. This could be a coffee shop, community center, or a park. The setting should facilitate deep conversations about faith and outreach. -
Inciting Moment:
Create a pivotal moment that challenges each character’s understanding of what it means to be a disciple. This could be a personal crisis, a community event, or a sudden call to action that sparks their journey. -
Dialogue and Interaction:
Write a scene where the characters discuss Matthew 28:19. How does each of them interpret the call to make disciples? Use their personalities to shape the conversation—Jasmine might be passionate, Lisa might question the need for tradition, Bruce might suggest modern methods, Charlie might want to represent the message artistically, and Shawn might express doubt about his ability to contribute. -
Conflict and Resolution:
Introduce a conflict within the group that tests their commitment to discipleship. This could be external (a challenge in the community needing their help) or internal (personal struggles with faith). How do they work together, and what resolution do they come to? -
Conclusion:
End with a scene that shows the impact of their actions. How do they embody the teachings of Matthew 28:19? Highlight the growth of each character and their newfound understanding of discipleship. - Reflection:
Include a brief reflective piece at the end of the narrative. What have the characters learned? How have they changed? What does it mean to them to carry out the Great Commission in their daily lives?
Writing Tip: Focus on the dynamics between the characters and how their differing perspectives lead to a richer understanding of faith and community involvement. Use vivid descriptions and meaningful dialogue to bring the scene to life.
