A recent study by the Barna Group reveals a significant increase in Bible reading among younger adults in the United States. According to the findings, nearly half of both Millennials (born between 1984 and 1998) and Gen Z individuals (born between 1999 and 2015) are engaging with the Holy Scriptures on a weekly basis. This trend has contributed to a national rise in weekly Bible reading among U.S. adults to 42 percent, marking a notable increase of 12 percentage points from the previous year, which had reached a 15-year low.
The CEO of the Barna Group highlighted that these findings reflect a broader resurgence of spiritual interest among younger generations. Many express a desire for spiritual growth and a belief in God, indicating what he described as a “reset moment” for Christian faith and practice. Despite this positive trend, Barna’s research also identifies a discrepancy between curiosity and conviction. While more Americans are turning to the Bible, only 36 percent strongly affirm its authority.
The Bible claims to be the inspired Word of God, deserving of the same authority as God Himself. This authority underpins divine law and the message of forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ. For instance, Jesus states that the Scriptures testify about Him, emphasizing the importance of His suffering, resurrection, and the proclamation of repentance and forgiveness to all nations.
Despite the uptick in personal Bible reading, only a small portion of the Scriptures is typically read during Sunday services. Even congregations that adhere to a standardized three-year schedule of appointed readings may not cover all texts. Weekly Bible classes often miss out on exploring the entirety of Scripture as well.
To encourage broader engagement, many congregations, including the Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Kilgore, promote daily Bible reading plans. These plans guide participants through the entire Bible in one year, revisiting the Psalms and seasonal canticles twice. The reading plan aligns with the Church Year, beginning anew on December 1, though individuals can start at any time.
The Rev. Dr. Jayson S. Galler, Pastor of Pilgrim Lutheran Church, invites the community to join in this initiative. He offers support for questions related to the Daily Bible Reading during Sunday Adult Bible Class at 09:30 a.m. Interested individuals can reach out through the church’s website, www.pilgrimlc.org.
As engagement with biblical texts increases among younger generations, the landscape of Christian practice appears to be evolving, reflecting deeper spiritual inquiries and the potential for renewed faith.
