YouVersion Bible app reveals most popular verses in 2014
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Christian Examiner) - YouVersion, one of the most popular Bible apps worldwide, released its top 10 lists of the most bookmarked and shared verses among its users.
Noticably absent from both lists is John 3:16, probably the most memorized passage among Believers: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life" (NKJV).
But, that did not reflect any deficiencies in the use of the app to promote Scripture reading. YouVersion reported giant numbers via Twitter, Facebook, text message and email combined:
-- 9.9 billion chapters read
-- 1.6 billion audio chapters listened to
-- 108 million bookmarks created
-- 374 million highlighted passages
The most popular Scripture was Romans 12:2 "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
The next favorite text was the instruction to focus on positive and righteous things in Philippians 4:8 "Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable."
The most highlighted verse was also found in Philippians, though in chapter 4 verse 6. "Be anxious for nothing," also is the Bible app's third most popular verse overall.
The verse most shared by YouVersion users gives guidance on work ethic: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not for human beings" (Colossians 3:23-24).
Running second was an Old Testament favorite.
1 Chronicles 16:34 urges gratitude to God, saying, "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever."
Favorites varied by nation, according to YouVersion's information.
Jeremiah 29:11, which ranked at number four on the top 10 list, was most popular among Canadian, South African, Australian and U.K. users. The verse states: "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'"
Philippians 4: was the top verse among Americans, Nigerians and Brazilians.
Meanwhile, users in Colombia and Mexico favored Isaiah 41:10. It is encouragement about God's strength and protection: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
YouVersion's Bible app has been downloaded by over 164 million users worldwide in 742 languages and 1,052 different versions, according to its website. More information on the Bible app can be found online at https://www.youversion.com/.