Millennials and Gen Z Drive Surge in Bible Reading Among Adults

Recent research from the Barna Group indicates a notable resurgence in Bible reading among adults, particularly driven by Millennials and Generation Z. The study, which involved extensive interviews, revealed that nearly half of those in these age groups are engaging with the Holy Scripture on a weekly basis. As a result, weekly Bible reading among U.S. adults has risen to 42 percent, marking a significant increase of 12 points from last year, which had recorded a 15-year low.

The findings, presented by Barna’s CEO, highlight a growing interest in spiritual matters among younger generations. They reflect a broader trend of increased belief in God and a desire for spiritual growth. This phenomenon has been characterized as a “reset moment” for Christian faith and practice, suggesting a shift in how younger people approach spirituality.

Despite the uptick in Bible reading, Barna’s research also uncovers a disconnect between interest and conviction. While more Americans are exploring the Bible, only 36 percent strongly affirm its authority. This gap raises questions about the depth of spiritual engagement and the implications for faith practice in the U.S.

The Bible asserts its status as the inspired word of God, which commands authority comparable to that of God Himself. This authority underpins both God’s law, which identifies humanity as sinful, and the Gospel, which offers forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection. As noted in the Scriptures, Jesus claims that the Scriptures testify of Him, emphasizing the importance of understanding the Bible’s message.

Interestingly, only a small portion of the Bible is typically read during Sunday services, even among congregations that adhere to structured reading schedules. Weekly Bible classes may also miss significant portions of Scripture. To address this, many congregations, including Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Kilgore, Texas, encourage parishioners to engage in daily reading plans. These plans aim to guide individuals through the entire Bible over the course of a year, ensuring that key texts, such as the Psalms, are revisited multiple times.

The Rev. Dr. Jayson S. Galler, Pastor of Pilgrim Lutheran Church, invites community members to participate in a daily reading program that begins anew on December 1, 2023. He emphasizes that individuals can start at any time and encourages questions about the daily readings during Sunday Adult Bible Class sessions.

As Bible reading regains momentum among younger adults, the implications for spiritual growth and community engagement are significant. The shift in how these generations approach Scripture may redefine the landscape of faith in the years to come, prompting discussions about the relationship between curiosity, conviction, and the authority of the Bible.