Repeat to Remember

In The Figure 8 System, memorization occurs in 3 ways. First we memorize the Scriptures by meditating on each passage throughout the day, and by this we gain a thorough understanding of text. Second, people who use The Figure 8 System memorize Scripture by knowing the context of each chapter or book. Memorizing chapters within their context helps us grab the meaning and flow of what’s written. Finally, we memorize Scripture by learning how the verses look in relation to each other on the printed memory sheets. To help you accomplish these three aspects of Scripture memory, each printable Scripture Memory Sheet includes a list of Starter Phrases on the back.

A starter phrase consists of the first three or four words of a verse.

Using Starter Phrases to Remember Verses

Within the starter phrase concept, there are two kinds of memory markers – Primary Markers and Secondary Markers. Primary markers include multiples of eight (1, 8, 16, 24, and 32) and secondary markers include each reference in between (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, etc). When recalling recall a specific verse, these markers will be your guide and allow you to be no more than 4 verses away from recalling a specific Scripture reference. For instance, if you need to recall Philippians 4:19, beginning with the closest primary marker, you should think to yourself, “I know that 4:16 is ‘for even’.”Then, you will be able to work your way through the secondary markers from 16 to 19; “and my God will supply all your need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Once you recall the verse’s starter phrase, the rest of the verse will flow naturally from your memory. Since they are so important, the starter phrases for each chapter should be reviewed as a regular part of your memory work. You can print your own Scripture Memory Schedules and Scripture Memory Sheets w/Starter Phrases.

Now let’s move on to the third principle, Disciplined Study.