On Memorization of Scripture

Memorization of scripture is an ancient practice.  Almost as ancient is complaining about it!

Somewhere I read something about the benefits of memorization.  The author said, “Bible memorization is a good way to have good things stuck in your head.”

Better yet, someone else has suggested that we replace the word “memorization” with the phrase “learn by heart.”  Yes, that is a good picture:   learn the Word of God by heart.  Now that will head you toward significance!

Let me encourage you to work on memorization in two ways.

First, make sure that Bible memorization is a regular part of your instruction of others. 

Make the catechism students do it no matter how much they complain.  Such complaints are eternal.  Let me be crystal clear:  almost no one cannot memorize.  Some have to work more than others, but almost everyone can develop this ability—given a little time and effort.  Don’t give in to the over protective excuse making parents, “My little Joey can’t memorize.” 

But don’t just focus on the catechism kids.  Encourage the habit of Bible memorization in the younger children and adults too!  Maybe develop a list of key Bible passages that you want everyone in the congregation to know.   Don’t hesitate emphasizing the same ones over and over.  Introduce a passage for the whole congregation to memorize during Advent or Lent or Epiphany Season.  Remember, the trick is help people work at a passage long enough to transfer the information from the short-term memory to the long-term.

Second, make sure you are working on Bible memorization as well.  

This is a place to lead by example.  More and more memorized Bible passages rolling around in your heart/mind will make it more likely that one will bubble up at just the right time in counseling sessions, Bible classes, sermons and witnessing opportunities! 

Sometime ago I saw a pastor who started every service with a memorized Bible passage appropriate for the theme of the day.   That seemed like a good practice to adopt.  So, I did.  Every week I begin the service with a memorized portion of Scripture.  Sure, some of these passages only end up in my short-term memory.  But having done this now for years, more and more have snuck into my long-term memory.  Now that’s a fringe benefit from being a pastor!  And think how much more powerful starting a service with a memorized portion of Scripture is compared to, “Well, how was your week?”  Or “How about the weather?”  Or “How about the (insert the name of your favorite team here)?”   

What about those who say, “Learning by rote doesn’t mean you understand what you have memorized?”  Granted.  Memorization is not the same as understanding.  But the two are not disconnected.  In fact, you can’t really understand something without having the right words right.  You have to get the words down before you can get the meaning.  And what kind of meaning can there be if you never have the words right?  I like to think of memorization as loading up the heart/mind with lots of software that can be accessed at a later time.

One more thing.  Don’t forget there are other good things to memorize:  your church’s catechism, hymns, poems, famous quotes, your wife’s birthday.