As previously mentioned by Eric Dye, John Piper has some challenging things to say about smartphones and the distraction of technology. Around the time the iPhone 5 came out, I was getting ready to get my first iPhone ever. So naturally, I decided on the iPhone 5. Then, this old sermon clip was republished and it almost made me purchase the 4s. I guess the keyword is almost, but it was at least food for thought!
So, when I stumbled upon a video in which he talked about an app that “blew him away”, I most certainly took notice.
Okay, he had a hand in making this app but that statement still caught my attention. He is talking about a new app called “Fighter Verses” (iOS/Android) that is based on a five-year campaign at his church focused on Scripture memorization. I really appreciate the fact the he doesn’t only focus on the negative aspects of technology, but has recently discussed the potential benefits.
[tentblogger-youtube uWLAWqKAlNk]
Which made me think, “What ever happened to memory verses?”. (Did they disappear like human videos?) As a kid, I felt like I was inundated with one at every church service, along with different tools and ideas as resources. Sure, I’ve heard people mention the importance of it from the pulpit, but in my experience, it took a backseat when I made the all important step from children’s church to youth group.
Personally, I am seriously considering getting it. The only reason I haven’t downloaded it yet is because I tend to exclusively use free apps on my iOS devices.
As I looked at the screenshots in the App Store, there were a few features that stuck out to me including the fill-in-the-blank quiz which would help foster actual memorization. It’s also interesting to note that there is only one other comparable app that I could find that was built for a similar purpose (it is also a paid app).
Is this something you would consider using personally or for your church?
Why do you think we haven’t seen this type of tool integrated into existing church apps?
[via Desiring God]
Marcus Williamson says
John Piper. That dude.
I think I would use this personally. But like you, I’m tend to air on the free app end.
Don’t be surprised if this is the next big thing for YouVersion. Maybe they buy out Fighter Verses or a team up happens. Either way I think YouVersion will play a role in this down the road for sure
Blane Young says
I haven’t used it as much as planned but I did finally spring for it. We shall see if it makes me more like Piper (er, Jesus).
Yeah, I love the Digerati team at LifeChurch.tv. I do hope they incorporate something like this although I feel that they offer so much for free already. But you’re right, I wouldn’t be surprised if they are already cooking something similar up.
kolby milton says
I have fighter verse and its well worth a few bucks. It is like Rosetta stone for bible memorization! Awesome app!
Blane Young says
Great analogy!
What part of it has helped you the most? I like the lock screen feature but I am not sure that using just that feature has helped me with memorization like I thought it would. I may delve into the tests and audio stuff…
Jonathan Blundell says
I’m not sure but I think the iOS app link may be broken.
I kept trying to open it in iTunes and it said the app could not be found.
Blane Young says
I just tried it and it worked alright for me. I don’t have the new iTunes but I am not sure how that would affect anything.
What if you look for it via the Fighter Verses website?
http://fighterverses.com
Jonathan Blundell says
Also this app seems to be pretty similar from The Navigators – http://www.navpress.com/tmsapp
Blane Young says
Nice find! I may check it out – although I wish it were free!
Josh says
Scripture Typer is my Bible memory app of choice. I can’t imagine any other app–even Fighter Verses–coming close to helping me memorize God’s Word like that one.