The Bible Study in Stereo is an 8-week study emphasizing biblical meditation. Group and individual study progresses verse by verse, covering approximately one chapter of Scripture. Music is used as a tool to help memorize the same verses being studied.

What are the benefits of using this approach to Bible study?

By combining Bible study with Scripture memorization, a synergy occurs between the two, and a new dimension of understanding God’s Word unfolds. The effort that one puts into either of these disciplines multiplies by using the other discipline at the same time: One plus one begins to equal four. Noted author and pastor Charles Swindoll states in his book Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life, (p. 53) “I know of no other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture….No other single exercise pays greater spiritual dividends! Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your attitudes and outlook will begin to change. Your mind will become alert and observant. Your confidence and assurance will be enhanced. Your faith will be solidified.”

Why use music as a memory tool?

Almost everyone finds Scripture memorization to be hard work. Verses memorized one month may be forgotten by the next. However, we have found that many people who have always struggled with memorization can do so using music. The other powerful impact of music is in long-term retention. How many of us have worked so hard to memorize a couple of verses only to find we’ve totally forgotten them within a few weeks? With music, the verses stay in the memory much longer. Also, it is a very simple and enjoyable process to review the Scripture months or years later using the CD. Using music to help memorize makes the process fun.

Why is the group setting so beneficial to this study?

Many people will not believe they can possibly memorize an entire chapter of Scripture. We have found the group setting an important tool for encouraging individuals to believe that they can. Joining together with others to complete a task is very satisfying, especially when some have thought it an impossible task. Further, we receive many comments on the special bonding that occurs between participants in a way unique to this study.

Which translations do you use?

We use the New American Standard Bible for the study manual and the NIV for the memory work. Memorizing one translation and studying another actually ends up being a very complementary process. It is another way the study is “In Stereo.”

I would like to lead this study with a group at my church or in my home.

Do I need special training to lead this study?

We have created an inexpensive instructional DVD beneficial for potential leaders (see Product List). The study has been written as a discipleship Bible study, led by facilitator. All participants are encouraged to do their own individual study each week. The group time allows for mentoring, as both new and seasoned believers share and ask questions about the week’s verses.

My voice isn’t very good.

How can I lead or participate in a Bible study that has singing in it?

We encourage groups to have at least two leaders, one to lead the singing, and the other to lead the study. While singing, we suggest groups make use of the CD. With the volume turned up, rather than each other’s voices, participants will hear the voices of the musicians. Using the CD allows participants to focus on the words being sung, drawing attention away from individual voices. The song leader does not need to have a good voice. They do need to know the words. When the leader sings along with the CD, completely by memory, it instills confidence in the rest of the group that they, too, can do it. This study is also beneficial for those who don’t like to sing but want to participate and learn Scripture. We receive wonderful feedback from people who don’t like to sing but say they love using this study.