We used a storytelling framework when filming 'Paul's story'. Watch the video through the eyes of a non-believer. Do you think it will resonate with them? If so, why?
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Testimony videos: a storytelling framework that works
What you'll find on this page:
Introduction
Have you ever finished watching a video and were left thinking that it was a complete waste of your time? Maybe it didn’t make sense, felt unorganised, and in the end you had more questions than answers.
On the other hand, we can all remember the videos that had us glued to the screen and emotionally invested. But why? Most likely it wasn’t just the visual effects or the music alone…it was simply good storytelling.
What is the ‘Hero’s Journey’?
Your favourite movies, novels, and even this very article all have one thing in common: they’re using a framework for storytelling called the ‘Hero's Journey’. This same framework can be used to create effective testimonial videos aimed at evangelism!
Above any skill within the film industry the art of storytelling is the most important. We’ve likely all heard the scripture "...out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks" (Luke 6:43-45). In the Hero’s Journey, the story is the heart, the overflow is everything that brings the story together such as music, editing, titles, video, audio, and more. The mouth is the message, the emotion, and the undertones that come across. But one of the most important things to remember in telling a story is in having a relatable problem.
Tim Doecke : Content Manager (CV Australia)Having a relatable problem is so important. We get distracted by the functionality of the salvation moment that we fail to articulate the journey that the heart was going on.
When making a testimonial video, having a framework for good storytelling is crucial. This is especially true when trying to reach people who don't know Jesus. We have to assume they know nothing about Christianity and create the video with empathy and compassion, seeing the testimony through their eyes.
The Hero's Journey in action: 'Paul's story'
Storytelling framework for testimonial videos
Using the basic framework of the Hero’s Journey, let's break down Paul's Story and see what made it work so well. Generally, a great testimonial video should follow these points, but feel free to adapt this information according to the type of story you’re working with.
1. The broken beginning
- Description: The protagonist starts in a life of trauma, pain, and hopelessness, setting the stage for transformation.
- Key moments:
- "When I was seventeen, me and my brother moved to Bradford just to get away from my dad."
- "My dad was awful... He killed my mum."
- "I thought I’d get away from the old life and create a new life for myself."
2. A longing for freedom
- Description: A deep desire for something better sparks a search for meaning and purpose.
- Key moments:
- "When I came to Bradford, I wanted something better than drugs. I wanted to have a life."
- "Somehow, I just couldn’t have this life, or maybe I wasn’t allowed to have that life."
3. Falling into darkness
- Description: The weight of the past and poor choices lead to a season of despair and struggle.
- Key moments:
- "The only thing I had to do was just do drugs."
- "You’re just a nobody. Hopeless. Nobody cares about you."
4. A glimmer of hope
- Description: New opportunities and relationships begin to guide the protagonist toward healing.
- Key moments:
- "There was no way out of it until I got a job in a care home."
- "Meeting Janet: ‘She showed me what true love was... I didn’t know what love was until she showed me it.’"
5. Stepping into the unknown
- Description: The protagonist begins to embrace a new way of life, though still uncertain about their future.
- Key moments:
- "When I first started work, it was like another world."
- "Janet made me realize I could be loved, and it’s nice to be loved."
6. The season of testing
- Description: Challenges and heartbreak test the protagonist’s resolve and reveal the depth of their need for transformation.
- Key moments:
- "Janet got really ill... She never came out of the hospital."
- "My life went downhill after that... I was thinking of ending it."
- "Christine came to my aid, helped me through it, and eventually, we fell in love."
7. The crossroads moment
- Description: A pivotal spiritual invitation presents itself, requiring faith and surrender.
- Key moments:
- "Christine asked me if I’d like to go to church, and I said, ‘I’m not really a church person.’"
- "One night, I heard somebody say, ‘You need to go to church.’"
8. A divine encounter
- Description: The protagonist experiences a profound moment of spiritual awakening and joy.
- Key moments:
- "It was totally the opposite of what I thought. It was like walking into another world."
- "When they sung, ‘How Great Thou Art,’ I cried my eyes out. Tears of joy. I melted."
9. Discovering true purpose
- Description: A personal relationship with Jesus brings healing, love, and identity.
- Key moments:
- "I gave my life to Jesus."
- "It’s dramatically changed me. Even people at work tell me I’ve totally changed."
10. Rebuilding with faith
- Description: The protagonist integrates faith and transformation into daily life, finding meaning and fulfilment.
- Key moments:
- "Because of Jesus, I’m more alive, I’m more free."
- "I know that I’m wanted, needed, and more loved."
11. A new identity
- Description: The old self is left behind as the protagonist embraces a life of love, joy, and faith.
- Key moment: "For most of my life, I’ve felt empty, lonely, down. God’s in my life now, so I feel lively, open, and full of love."
12. Living the mission
- Description: The protagonist steps into a life of purpose, joy, and service, sharing their transformation with others.
- Key moment: "Life’s worth living now. Life’s here to be enjoyed, and I’m gonna enjoy it while I’m here now."
Learn more about which words to use in order to connect with those who need Jesus, read this article. ↴
Featured Article
A guide: creating and sharing testimony videos
As was evident throughout Jesus' ministry, storytelling is a beautiful and captivating way to share the gospel. That same effective method for evangelism can be used today through the sharing of testimony videos.
How emotion plays a role.
The big picture for good storytelling is clear: people need Jesus, and well-done testimony videos can help spark a journey for those who are lost. As Christians, we know there is a gaping hole in the heart of every person. The only one who can fill that gap is Jesus, and emotion within a story can be used to lead people to Him. While framework and structure are vital, we cannot forget the importance of what emotional impact can do in our stories.
Here’s what a few people from across CV have to say about emotional storytelling:
"Emotional engagement is crucial...stories with multiple layers and background details tend to captivate audiences more effectively."
Jonatas Pontes : Content Manager (CV Brazil)
"In Latin America something that works well is having all the emotional components. It would need a good narration without being extremely long and boring. But definitely, it needs to be an open letter from the person to the people they're sharing their testimony with."
Yiyi Zapata : Content Manager (CV Latin America)
"Authenticity and relatability are what creates a captivating testimony. Genuine emotion is pivotal and of course it should be well structured. Pacing plays a massive role...keep it tight yet emotionally strong. Don't waste time dwelling on a specific section too long. The use of color makes a world of difference. The use of voice or actors - the more authentic, the more engaging it will be."
Falonee Naidoo : Content Manager (CV South Africa)
Behind the scenes journey
Take a look at how we helped one church produce an impactful testimonial video.
Where to begin.
Now that you have watched our example testimony, read through the framework, and peeked behind the curtain of the makings of Paul's Story and our journey following a church in helping them produce a testimonial video - where do you begin?
- Think of someone in your church who has a story that can relate to people outside of the church.
- Ask them if you can document their story of transformation.
- Work out how to share their story in a way that is relatable and free from the verbiage that we as Christians use on the regular.
- Can you share it with the world on social media?
There's plenty of "Only God" stories out there. They're just waiting to be told!