Faith and Technology

Bible Apps: A Blessing or a Distraction?

James Ashford

06 Feb 2025 — 2 min read

Or, perhaps a better way to phrase this could be, "When is it appropriate to use a Bible app on our phone?" My simple answer to this is: yes, we should absolutely have Bible apps installed on our phones.

As Christians, it's essential for us to believe that the Bible is God's living Word and is of immense importance in the life of any believer. We should seek out and maximise different ways to engage with God's Word, making it more accessible—even if it's not from a physical book.

Using a Bible app has its benefits, including access to different translations (e.g. NIV, ESV, etc.), audio transcriptions, and concordance tools. Some apps even provide daily devotions and reading plans, allowing you to set reminders and track your Bible reading progress.

All these features contribute to personal spiritual growth; however, it's worth taking a step back to examine the role of smartphones in our lives. After all, the same device that grants us access to the Bible and its many benefits is also the same device that provides access to the world's largest collection of harmful content, such as pornography, via the internet.

For this reason, it's important to realise that while Bible apps are incredibly useful, they are still part of a larger digital ecosystem that can be both a blessing and a distraction. As with any technology, how we use it matters far more than simply having it.

Using Bible Apps Wisely

With this in mind, here are a few tips on how we can use Bible apps wisely:

Be Intentional

Set aside dedicated time for Bible reading and prayer, just as you would with a physical Bible. Avoid the temptation to jump onto social media or browse YouTube while reading Scripture.

Limit Distractions

Depending on your phone model, consider using “Do Not Disturb” mode or an app that minimises notifications when engaging with the Bible to ensure your focus remains on God’s Word.

Make Use of Study Tools

Take advantage of reading plans, commentaries, and original language tools to deepen your understanding of Scripture.

Stay Accountable

Join a Bible study group or share your reading progress with a friend to encourage consistency and discussions about what you’re learning.

Balance Digital with Physical

While Bible apps are convenient, it's important not to let them replace the value of a physical Bible. A printed Bible encourages deeper focus and engagement without the distractions of a screen.

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