How to Memorize Scripture, Part 3

By March 19, 2015 Bible, Memorization No Comments

In parts one and two of this series we took a look at five reasons to memorize scripture. In this last post we will take a look at how. There are many techniques and a quick search can give you many results. But not all techniques are equal and some have advantages over others.

Anyone can memorize a verse in a day or two. The question is, will you still remember in a month or two? The technique that I stumbled upon last year emphasizes a few key features:

  • Long term memory
  • Acknowledges that memorizing is partly visual
  • Retaining the verse numbers
  • Simple to follow
  • Useful for long and short passages

The Technique

There is a document on Bible memorization written by Dr. Andrew Davis which details an excellent technique and has other very useful information. I highly recommend reading the entire document. Although it emphasizes memorizing long passages you should start with whatever you are comfortable with. Even if it is just a one sentence verse. The same technique can be used.

Let’s say you want to memorize Philippians 1:9-11. I have written the passage below and notice that I have spelled out the chapter and verse numbers. This is how you will read the text when you memorize it.

One-nine And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, One-ten so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, One-eleven filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

Day 1
Read Philippians 1:9 ten times slowly scanning each word and including the chapter and verse numbers all ten times. Then cover the page and recite it ten times including the chapter and verses again.

Day 2
Review yesterday’s verse by reciting Philippians 1:9 ten times including the verse numbers by memory (look it up again if you need to).

Read Philippians 1:10 ten times slowly scanning each word and including the chapter and verse numbers all ten times. Then cover the page and recite it ten times including the chapter and verses again.

Day 3
Review yesterday’s verse by reciting Philippians 1:10 ten times including the verse numbers by memory (look it up again if you need to).

Now recite all the old verses one time by memory. Philippians 1:9-10 including the verse numbers.

Now start the new verse. Read Philippians 1:11 ten times slowly scanning each word and including the chapter and verse numbers all ten times. Then cover the page and recite it ten times including the chapter and verses again.

For longer passages you just need to repeat this pattern. Review yesterday’s verse ten times, recite all verses once, and start the new verse.

Once you are done memorizing the verses you just need to recite the passage once per day for 100 days. This last step is essential for long term memory.

Again, if you are serious about memorization, I really recommend giving the entire guide a read through.

Final Tips

  • Use the same Bible or hand write the verses in a journal to enforce the visual aspect of memorization.
  • Don’t skip the verses, they really help.
  • Take advantage of your memorized verses by meditating on them or praying through them.