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Memorizing the books of the Bible can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies, it can become a manageable and even enjoyable experience. Here are 5 tips to help you and your kids master the order of the books of the Bible:
1. Learn Sections of the Books
Breaking down the books of the Bible into smaller sections can make the task more achievable. Associating the books with their sections instead of just memorizing names will help. The Old Testament sections are Law, History, Wisdom, Major Prophets, and Minor Prophets. The New Testament sections are Gospels, History, Letters, and Prophecy. You can download this handy chart for free here.
2. Use Mnemonics
Creating mnemonics or acronyms can be a fun and effective way to remember certain sections. For example, you can use "Go Eat Pork Chops" to remember Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians. Since it is in these books that the followers of Jesus learn that some Jewish traditions are no longer required, like not eating pork.
3. Use Music
Listening to songs or chants that list the books of the Bible in order can help reinforce your memory. There are many resources available on platforms like YouTube that set the books to catchy tunes. Some videos like this popular one have all the books in one song and some have just the Old or just the New Testament.
4. Use a Real Bible
I know a Bible app on your phone is a convenient and wonderful tool. However, handling a physical Bible and turning to verses can provide a tactile experience that helps you visualize where the books are located in relation to each other. This hands-on approach can enhance your spatial memory of the books. The more you use it and read it the better you will know it!
Kids should definitely have their own Bible as soon as they learn to read! My kids have the Adventure Bible for reading at home and this smaller Bible for taking to church. You may consider the NIRV for young readers or you may want to consider the version your pastor uses so they can follow along at church.
5. Utilize Tools
Take advantage of tools like this printable bookmark or this quarter-fold booklet that list the books of the Bible in order. These visual aids can serve as quick references and study guides to reinforce your memorization efforts. The bookmark and booklet can be colored in by students. They could even color code the sections as mentioned above.
With these expert tips and a bit of dedication, you and your family or class can successfully memorize the books of the Bible. Remember, repetition is key to solidifying your knowledge, so practice regularly and stay consistent in your efforts. You'll be amazed at how quickly you can master the order of the books and deepen your understanding of the Bible.