It’s become increasingly common for churches to project Bible passages onto large screens during services. Whether through PowerPoint slides or worship software, this practice allows congregations to follow along with Scripture readings seamlessly. It’s efficient, accessible, and visually engaging—but it also raises a question that many pastors and church leaders are beginning to ask: Does projecting Bible passages keep members from bringing Bibles to church?
This isn’t just a question about habits—it’s a question about how we engage with Scripture as a community. The Bible is more than a book; it’s central to our faith, our worship, and our daily walk with God. So, understanding how technology influences our relationship with it is worth exploring.
How Tech Is Shaping Our Relationship with the Bible
The Benefits of Projecting Scripture
Before diving into the potential downsides, it’s important to acknowledge the advantages of projecting Bible passages during services. For many, especially newcomers or those unfamiliar with navigating the Bible, seeing the verses on the screen provides immediate access without the pressure of flipping pages or scrolling through a Bible app.
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It also helps foster unity. Everyone is reading the same translation, at the same pace, with no confusion about where the pastor is. For people with visual impairments or limited mobility, large projected text can be easier to read and follow than bringing Bibles to church.
In addition, it supports multimedia teaching, allowing Scripture to be paired with images, video, or music that enhance the message and engage the senses. In a culture saturated with screens and fast-paced communication, visualizing the Word can make it feel more immediate and relevant.
The Decline of Bible-Carrying Congregations
However, this convenience may come at a cost. Many church leaders have observed a noticeable decline in the number of people bringing their personal Bibles to services. Some congregants admit they don’t see the need—if the verses will be displayed for them, why carry the extra weight?
