State of the
BIBLE

Research from American Bible Society

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WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

State of the Bible 2023 has uncovered some challenging trends. But there are indicators of hope, too. For thirteen years, America has relied on State of the Bible for insights into our relationship with God, faith, and the Bible.

What's the State of the Bible in 2023?

American Bible Society is in its thirteenth year of conducting State of the Bible, asking American people their opinions and practices relating to the Bible.

Do people consider the Bible God’s Word? If so, what does that mean to them?
Does the Bible shape their daily decisions? In what ways?
How does Scripture impact their relationship with God or their spiritual growth?
How often do they read the Bible? And how do they choose what to read?
How do people of different ages, genders, races, education, or religions respond to all these questions? Are there regional differences?
How do those who engage with the Bible differ from those who don’t?
And what’s the trend line?

Through these findings, we hope State of the Bible will help provide some direction for your biblical ministry as you respond to the needs of the people you serve.

Explore trends in Scripture Engagement and how recent events are impacting Americans' relationship with the Bible.

Discover the relationship between Bible engagement and stress, wellbeing, and human flourishing.

Learn how the Church supports holistic health with the Bible and consider next steps for pastors, church leaders, families, and individuals.

Current chapters include

Introduction: Intuition & Insight
The Bible in America - 2023 Trends
Faith in Motion
Flourishing and Hope

And, coming soon...

Spiritual Vitality in America
The Faith of Generation Z
The Bible and Behavior in America
Technology and the Bible
Giving it All: Philanthropy and Service
Year in Review: Top stories and analysis from 2023

“The annual State of the Bible research is a remarkable tool for churches in America. Each piece of data acts as a guidepost, identifying cultural trends and highlighting groups of Americans whose hearts are softening toward God’s Word. By equipping themselves with these insights, churches can move toward more impactful ministry in their individual communities.”

Dr. Ed Stetzer

Professor and Executive Director of the Billy Graham Center
Wheaton College

“State of the Bible research is a beacon of light shining on critical areas and needs that we might not otherwise see. Thanks to this data, we can strategize and mobilize to meet the human needs reflected in these numbers. Our ministries become smarter and more effective as we see the impact of healing amplified across our nation.”

Rev. Dr. Nicole Martin

Chief Impact Officer
Christianity Today

“Each year, State of the Bible pursues a rigorous research agenda. It tracks key metrics year-over-year, and we look for connections to new
horizons in the scientific studies of religion, well-being, and society. This information is our gift to the Church, helping us see our neighbors clearly and serve them with grace and truth.”

Dr. John Farquhar Plake

Chief Ministry Insights & Innovation Officer
American Bible Society

News & Information

CBN NEWS — COMMENTARY: Americans Are Turning to the Bible

One in six U.S. adults (16 percent) now reads the Bible most days during the week—up from one in eight (12 percent) in 2020. Why are these Americans turning to God's Word?

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PHILANTHROPY DAILY — STUDY: Religious Faith And Reading The Bible Increases Generosity

A new study from the American Bible Society shows that "Practicing Christians" remain more generous than non-believing Americans.

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CHRISTIANITY TODAY — STUDY: Regular Bible Readers Experienced More Stress in 2020, But Also More Hope

State of the Bible found that one-quarter of Americans are experiencing moderate levels of stress...but they're finding hope in the pages of the Bible.

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