Message Maps
A message map is a talk, sermon or lesson laid out as a map: the passage at the centre, the points around it, and your study notes beside it. The Message template starts one for you.
Start A Message
On the Mac choose File ▸ New from Template… and pick Message; on iPhone and iPad tap New Message on the launch screen. The map comes laid out in the Message style set:
- a reminder to start recording, announcements and the passage;
- an introduction with a hook, and a note to self;
- three points, each with Scripture, explanation, application and a recap;
- a conclusion and prayer;
- a floating Notes branch for analysis, point drafts, study notes, cross references, quotes, definitions and a point checklist.
Write Each Point Once
The points are named text (see Named Text): write a point's wording once and every place that uses it, such as the recap and the conclusion, shows the same words. Add a point with Topic ▸ Named Text ▸ New Point After This; points are numbered by their place and renumber when you move them. Insert Recap adds a recap of the points so far.
Name The File From The Map
Choose File ▸ Rename from Title… to name a saved message from its date, passage and title, so your messages sort by date in the Library.
Plan The Timing
In Presenter Mode, choose Plan Timing… and give each part of the talk (each topic under the centre) its minutes, or Spread Minutes Evenly. While you present, the bar shows the part you should be in and whether you are on pace, ahead or behind. See Presenter Mode And Recording.
Bible References
A topic that starts with a Bible reference can open it in your Bible app: choose the app in Settings ▸ Bible (YouVersion, Logos, Accordance, Olive Tree or Bible Gateway), then use Open Bible Reference in the Topic menu or the inspector.