TL;DR
Biblical illiteracy is on the rise, but your church can reverse the trend by meeting members where they spend most of their time—on their phones. A mobile app with sermon notes, study resources, and instant communication tools can deepen engagement with Scripture and foster spiritual growth throughout the week.
Can your members confidently retell the story of Daniel in the lion’s den or explain the meaning of the Sermon on the Mount? If you’re unsure, you’re not alone. Recent studies reveal that biblical literacy is at an all-time low, even within churches.
This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a call to action. According to Lifeway Research, addressing biblical illiteracy is one of the top ten challenges churches must prioritize by 2025. Yet, the question remains: how can we reverse this trend in a world where distractions abound?
A Surprising Revelation
When asked to name their favorite Old Testament story, 4 in 5 U.S. Protestant churchgoers offered a narrative from the first half of the Bible, but 11% gave a New Testament story, 7% said they didn’t have a favorite story, and 3% weren’t sure, according to Lifeway Research. Additionally, many churchgoers aren’t confident in their ability to retell some key Old Testament stories, like Abraham being asked to sacrifice Isaac and Daniel in the lion’s den. Others said they could accurately retell the biblical story of Romulus and Remus, even though that’s from Roman mythology, not Scripture. 1.
Clearly, there’s work to be done. But there’s also an incredible opportunity to reintroduce your members to the life-changing power of the Word in a way that meets them where they are—on their phones.
Why a Church Mobile App Matters More Than Ever
Consider these facts:
- There are over 6.3 billion smartphone users worldwide.
- There are 1.14 billion tablet users worldwide who also utilize apps.
- The average American checks their phone 262 times per day—once every 5.5 minutes.
- 88% of mobile time is spent on apps (almost 3 hours), with users interacting with an average of 10 apps daily. 2.
Your members are already using mobile apps to stay connected with their favorite brands, entertainment, and social groups. Isn’t it time your church becomes part of their daily digital rhythm?
How Our App Can Help Your Church Reignite Biblical Engagement
At OnlineGiving.org, we believe that technology, when used intentionally, can foster deeper spiritual growth. Here’s how our mobile app can support your church’s mission:
- Instant Communication: Whether it’s a weather cancellation or an update to a specific group, notify your congregation immediately with targeted messages.
- Small Group and Study Tools: Use the app’s Sermon Notes feature for small group materials, sermon outlines, or study guides. Members can save notes for reflection or share them easily.
- Bible Study Resources at Their Fingertips: Post past and current sermons, Bible studies, and devotionals so your members can engage whenever they need inspiration.
- Seamless Event Participation: Promote events and allow members to sign up and check in with just a few taps.
By making biblical resources accessible on their phones, you’re creating a bridge between Sunday mornings and everyday life, encouraging your congregation to stay in the Word throughout the week. Of course, our app also makes giving fast and convenient.
Success Stories: Real Churches, Real Impact
Many of our church partners have embraced these features to enhance discipleship. See for yourself how they’re using our Sermon Notes feature:
Easy to Use, Easy to Implement
Our app is designed with your team in mind. The drag-and-drop interface makes adding resources as simple as posting on social media. Plus, our app integrates seamlessly with popular church management systems (ChMS), so you won’t have to reinvent the wheel. And when questions arise, our industry-leading customer support team is ready to assist.
Take the Next Step Toward Biblical Engagement
Imagine a congregation where members feel equipped, not intimidated, by Scripture—where Bible stories are understood, remembered, and lived out. That vision is within reach.
Let’s partner together to create a digital discipleship experience that deepens faith and fosters community. Contact us at (615) 206-4000 or support@onlinegiving.org to schedule a personalized demo and see how our mobile app can transform engagement and biblical literacy in your church.
We’re excited to walk with you every step of the way as you lead your congregation deeper into God’s Word.
Biblical literacy is down, but your church can change that! Meet your congregation where they are—on their phones! Discover how a mobile app can make Scripture engagement easy, impactful, and accessible.https://t.co/6jUWgEJKHz pic.twitter.com/c2g2nIOvKl
— Online Giving (@onlinegivingorg) January 9, 2025
