State of the
BIBLE

Research from American Bible Society

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A REASON FOR HOPE!

In 2024, fewer Americans than ever are engaging with the Bible, but there's reason for hope. We see a growing interest God’s Word among our youngest generation and curiosity in the Movable Middle.

What's the State of the Bible in 2024?

For 14 years, American Bible Society has reported on the State of the Bible by investigating Americans’ relationship with God, faith, and the Bible. In this year's report, we will highlight some key trends and explore important questions like:

How do people choose to incorporate the Bible into their daily lives?
Does the Bible shape their daily decisions? In what ways?
How does spiritual health impact levels of stress and hope?
Has our approach to the Bible changed after the pandemic? If so, how?
What aspects of church culture cause people to feel welcome? What aspects cause people to leave?
How has the proportion of in-person and online church attendance changed?
What do people think about artificial intelligence?

New this year, we'll feature interviews with thought leaders whose insights will take readers beyond the data. We hope State of the Bible provides direction and encouragement for you and 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: Opportunities for the Gospel
The Bible in America Today - 2024 Trends

And, coming soon...

Generative AI and the Bible
Hope and Human Flourishing
The Bible and Neighboring
The Church in America
Restoring Hope – Finding Hope and Healing in the Bible
Dealing with Disappointment
Loneliness and the Bible
Philanthropy and more...

“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

Dean of the Talbot School of Theology
Biola University

“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 Program 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.

Click to read more...