Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does MP3 mean?

 

A: MP3 (short for MPEG, Moving Pictures Experts Group) is a digital audio format that allows files to be compressed 10 to 12 times smaller than files in PCM WAV format (the format currently used in regular CD’s). The result is audio tracks that can be downloaded and sent through the Internet much easier. You used to have to buy 16 CDs to get the New Testament, but it is now available on one MP3 CD!

 

Q: What will an MP3 CD play on?

A: MP3 CDs will play on computers, MP3 players, most new DVD players, and on new CD players which are MP3 compatible. For those with older technology, the BibleStick is available for sale for only $20. It comes pre-loaded with the New Testament.

 

Q: Do I have to do it during Lent?

A: There are some natural 40-day blocks of time during the year that might work for your congregation. You could do the listening program as preparation for a mission trip, at New Year's, between Easter and Pentecost, or a special spiritual formation emphasis. It can be ongoing for youth or children's Bible study. You could even use it with specific groups within your church such as newly elected deacons.

 

Q: How do I order my materials?

 

A: Call the Faith Comes by Hearing staff directly at (800) 545-6552. Be sure to tell them you are participating in the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship initiative.
 

Q. What’s this about an offering? I thought the MP3 discs were free.

A. The MP3 discs are free, thanks to a generous grant to CBF. The offering is a “love offering” which is totally voluntary. If you have been moved by the experience and wish to contriubute to the on-going work of Faith Comes by Hearing, we welcome that.
 

Q. How will the offering be used?

A. Faith Comes By Hearing, the producer of the MP3 discs of the New Testament and Kidz Bible receive the offerings and use the money to translate the New Testament into new languages and to provide equipment like the Proclaimer and BibleSticks (dedicated MP3 players) so that people groups around the world can hear the good news in their own heart languages. One group that benefits is CBF field personnel.
 

Q. Do we send our offering to CBF or to Faith Comes By Hearing?

A. Send your offering to Faith Comes By Hearing, 2421 Aztec Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107-4224.
 

Q. Many in our congregation listened for 40 days and benefitted from the experience? What can we do now?

A. Here are a few ideas:

• Encourage your church to do some community outreach.  Share MP3 discs with neighbors, friends, and coworkers.  Share the discs with a shelter or group home in your community.  Share the discs with nursing homes or rehab centers.

• Enlist a group of friends or neighbors to listen for 40 days and host discussion groups in your home to meet once a week and talk about the experience. You’ll find individual and group guides online.

• Listen again. Use the 40-day listening plan for groups preparing for a short-term mission trip, those enlisted to work in the new church year, as preparation for a church staff or deacon retreat. Use them in a different 40-day period: New Year to Lent, Lent to Easter, Easter to Pentecost, Mother’s Day to Father’s Day, during the summer, in preparation for a new church year, etc.

• Download or order a translation in a language of non-English-speaking people in your neighborhood. Agree to listen in English as they listen in their heart language. Then meet and discuss what they are hearing.  Better yet, host a multi-lingual group at your church and listen and have discussion.

• Send Military BibleSticks to military personnel from your congregation.

• Use the Proclaimer and MP3s in the language of the people group you will minister alongside on a mission trip.  Send a Proclaimer to the CBF Field Persons who work with a specific people group.

• Become an ongoing partner with Faith Comes By Hearing. For more information, explore their Web site: www.faithcomesbyhearing.com.

• Share your experiences and ideas on the CBF website so that others can benefit.