John Wesley FM Church
Indianapolis, Indiana
Quizzed 1997-2004
Inducted 2019
Bio
Brian is a pastor in a Mennonite Church in Indianapolis. In addition to preaching, teaching, visiting the sick, offering counsel, and performing the standard pastoral duties, he has gotten involved in working with immigrants in recent years, ranging from Burmese Christians who fled to the United States due to religious persecution in Myanmar to Central American immigrants living here in the United States.
Questions & Answers
What were the highlights of your quizzing years?
Our trip to Quiz Finals to Seattle Pacific in 2002 was an inspiring and eye-opening experience, even though we didn’t do very well. Quiz Finals in 2004 was the year that our team did the best – coming in 2nd – and when I won the STV Individuals competition while my sister (Amy Bither) won the YTV individuals competition.
What was your favorite scripture? Why?
2 Peter 3:9
“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
How did quizzing affect you as a teen?
First and foremost, it gave me direct knowledge of the Word of God, which was not mediated through a person or perspective but was direct. By repeating the words of Scripture regularly, it shaped my thoughts and worldview, and even my language. It taught me how to memorize facts and process large amounts of information, which has helped me succeed in educational institutions ever since then.
What difference has quizzing made in your life to this day?
The difference has been profound. My deep familiarity with Scripture has been extremely helpful for me as a theologian, because people often make claims about the Bible or based on the Bible, and I can usually identify what Scriptures they are alluding to instantly. Knowing how to memorize and regurgitate information is still useful, and I use some Bible Quizzing tricks whenever I prepare for a sermon.