The latest American Bible Society's "State of the Bible" poll reveals the number of people said to be "Bible engaged" is now equal to the percentage of people who do not believe the Bible is sacred.
"The survey finds more and more Americans consider the Bible to be teachings of men... rather than the word of God. The poll... from the American Bible Society... found the greatest increase in those opinions came from Americans between the ages of 18 and 29." (Via WCSC)
Both groups now sit at 19 percent. The percentage of "Bible skeptics" is up from 10 percent in 2011. That's a concerning change, according to the president of the society. (Via WOFL)
Those who are engaged by the Bible are those who read it on a regular basis and believe the book is the actual or inspired Word of God. On the other hand, skeptics see the Bible merely as stories and advice. (Via Wikimedia Commons / Amandajm)
The study, conducted annually by Barna Research, is based on more than 2,000 interviews with U.S. adults in January and February.
It finds this trend is most pronounced among millennials, those who are range in age from 18 to 29. But why? Most say they are either too busy or significant life changes or events created doubt in their faith.
The president of American Bible Society says the survey shows "... we just can't hand them a Bible and expect them to find the answers. We have to get out the word to give God's word a chance. It's urgent." (Via The Washington Post) But the newspaper points out Bible related movies are "raking it in at the box office."
Son of God grossed more than $25 million when it first opened in February. (Via 20th Century Fox / "Son of God")
And "Noah" topped the box office charts when it hit theaters at the end of March, bringing in $44 million its opening weekend. (Via Paramount Pictures / "Noah").
The American Bible Society of course hopes this uptake in "Bible skeptics" reverses. The president believes more people will eventually look to the Bible for answers to America's moral decline. (Via Religion News Service)
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