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Read With Drama!
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Christian Reader’s Theater is dramatic literature presented by readers who read the script using the techniques of oral interpretation, characterization, and pantomime to create a theatrical effect.
The scriptural passages presented in Reader’s Theater breathe new life into what we think we have heard. Some of these Reader’s Theater selections also contain the elements of a skit, with additional dialogue added to the biblical narrative. In this case we mix the dramatic genres to create a Reader’s Theater skit. The narrator stands off to the side and reads the story while a contemporary re-enactment of the biblical narrative takes place by readers who sit at center stage.
Christian Reader’s Theater provides very memorable introductions, conclusions, or mid-way examples for the pastor as he presents the sermon. It is particularly effective as a way to present a Bible story, especially if you update it with current clothing and props; for example, the story of the “woman caught in adultery,” could be done with the Pharisees in business suits and the woman in a glamorous evening gown. It gives your drama ministry a first-hand opportunity to be creative and translate complex drama to the church stage without having to fuss with elaborate sets and line memorization.Take the Reader’s Theater challenge, and link with the pastor to create a sermon illustration that will compliment any topical or expository sermon.
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Click on the title of the script to view a detailed description and purchase and download the script.
The Pharisee And The Tax Collector
This “Reader’s Theater” skit is a retelling of the “Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector,” placed in a modern context using a religious snob who looks down on people he considers to be scum. This sets up a sermon stating that humility has integrity and self-righteousness is dangerous.
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The Shrewd Manager
This Readers Theater skit is a retelling of the “Parable of the Shrewd Manager,” placed in a modern context using five businessmen in an office setting. It sets up a sermon admonishing us to see our end coming, and to use money wisely to the Glory of God.
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Phillip And The Ethiopian
This Readers Theater skit tells the story of “Phillip and the Ethiopian,” in which Phillip obeys the voice of the Lord and runs alongside the chariot to explain the scroll of Isaiah. The message of evangelism is clear; we, too, are to be ready to explain salvation to those who ask.
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Jesus And Lazarus
This Readers Theater skit is a retelling of the “Raising of Lazarus,” proclaiming a message of hope that Jesus has power over death and those who hear His call will resurrect from the dead.
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The Power of Prayer
This Readers Theater skit tells the story of “Peter and John before the Sanhedrin,” and introduces a message encourage believers to pray earnestly to God for boldness and protection and never to let anyone silence their preaching and their praise of God.
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The Stoning of The Apostles
This Readers Theater skit enacts the story of “Stoning of the Apostles,” in Acts, Chapter 5, and shows an example of believers who were persecuted for their faith, yet refused to let anyone silence their preaching and their praise of God.
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Jesus And Nicodemus
This Readers Theater skit enacts the story of “Jesus and Nicodemus” and presents the wondrous miracle of being “born again” as Jesus describes it. It explores the skeptical reaction that people have to the miracle of salvation.
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