The iPad is ideally suited to the unique needs of preachers—especially itinerant preachers. Skeptical? Here are just a few of the reasons why I have found the iPad to be an ideal tool while preaching:
• Portability: Small enough to take virtually anywhere
• Multiple translations: Instant access to numerous translations
• Virtual library: Access your entire library of study tools anywhere, any time.
• Sermon notes: Never forget your sermon notes again.
• Inexpensive: The vast majority of apps and other resources you will need are either inexpensive or free.
• Multimedia presentations: Present audio, video, and slide presentations on your existing A/V equipment.
• New possibilities: Record sermons in audio and video, count up or countdown timers, re-size your note’s font, edit notes on the fly, and much, much more.
BEST iPAD BIBLE APPS FOR PREACHING
The features to look for in an app that you will use while preaching include:
• Translation of choice: The app must offer the translation you will be using.
• Easy to use: When speaking in front of a live audience, reliability and simplicity trump sophistication.
• Scalable fonts: Ability to quickly change font size
• Split screen functionality: To simultaneously view two different Bible translations or to display both the Scripture text and sermon notes
• Cloud sync: The app should be supported in all the computing environments you use and offer the ability to seamlessly sync highlights, bookmarks and notes.
• Strong developer support: The app’s developer must be committed to keeping the app up-to-date.
• Third party integration: Ability to integrate cloud-based services such as Evernote, Dropbox, and Google Drive
While I am not aware of a Bible app that offers all of these features, here are three excellent apps to consider:
Bible+ by Olive Tree Bible Software, Inc.
eBible.com by Osprit, Inc.
Bible! by Logos Bible Software
SERMON ILLUSTRATIONS
When we examine the earthly ministry of our Lord Jesus Christ, we find that He often used illustrations to powerfully emphasize His teaching. For one example of this, see Mark 10:13-16. The right visual at the right moment can transform an otherwise mundane sermon into something unforgettable. This is another area where the iPad can be of great value. Slideshows, audio, and video can be easily exported from the device to your existing audio/visual equipment.
iPAD PREACHING TIPS
Before preaching:
• Test the apps and equipment.
• Fully charge your iPad.
• Mute your iPad.
• Disable Wi-Fi.
• Disable cellular service.
• Close all running apps.
• Slippery podium? Use a 6”×8” piece of kitchen drawer liner.
While preaching:
• To quickly switch between apps, use the four finger left/right swipe gesture. This is significantly faster than using the multitasking bar.
• If you experience a technical glitch during your message, pause, remain calm, and try to find a solution. Resist the temptation to tell your audience about the problem. A prearranged, technically savvy assistant in the audience is a good idea as a last resort.
After preaching:
• Re-enable sound, Wi-Fi, and cellular data as needed.
• Note any technical glitches that you experienced so you can research and resolve them before your next message.
Paul wrote to Timothy, “preach the Word” (2 Tim. 4:2). Should we do anything different? Absolutely not! While we should become proficient with the tools we use, ultimately preaching is not about the latest and greatest technology; it’s about preaching His Word.
For more detailed posts on preaching with an iPad, see more on WhyWeWeb: http://bit.ly/preaching-w-iPad