THE STATE OF THE BIBLE, 2011

Transcription

1 American Bible Society THE STATE OF THE BIBLE, 2011 A study of U.S. adults PRELIMINARY REPORT Research commissioned by: American Bible Society New York, New York Research conducted by: Barna Group Ventura, California

2 Copyright 2011 This information has been produced by the Barna Group for American Bible Society of New York, New York. The information is confidential and copyrighted information that belongs to American Bible Society and may not be reproduced in any form or format without the written permission of ABS. page 2

3 T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S Introduction... 4 Data Analysis Bible Perceptions Bible Penetration Bible Engagement Bible Literacy Appendix Data Tables Research Definitions Study Methodology Guide to Survey Data page 3

4 I N T R O D U C T I O N This report contains the findings from a nationwide study commissioned by American Bible Society and conducted by Barna Research (a division of the Barna Group). Two research methodologies were used for the study; one included 1,011 telephone interviews with adults in the continental U.S., while the other consisted of 1,014 online surveys conducted using a nationally representative panel. All questions were asked in the telephone survey while a set of core questions were included online. The use of two methodologies provided a larger sample size for key questions and ensured even greater representation among all age groups. The study, conducted in April 2011, included U.S. adults 18 years of age or older. The primary objectives of this research were to determine: perceptions of the Bible Bible penetration Bible engagement Bible literacy This report contains the key findings of this research study. Following the Introduction is the Data Analysis section, a written explanation of the research results that also includes the implications of the data. The Appendix contains the data tables, a description of the research methodology, and definitions of terminology used in this report. Copies of the questionnaire and detailed, cross-tabulated data tables are provided separately. page 4

5 D A T A A N A L Y S I S page 5

6 1. Bible Perceptions This first chapter explores perceptions of the Bible and other sacred literature. Sacred Literature The vast majority of U.S. adults (86%) mention the Bible top-of-mind (i.e., unaided) when asked to name the books they consider sacred literature or holy books. This proportion is more than ten times that of the next most frequently mentioned holy book the Koran at 10%. While named by relatively few Americans, other mentions of books considered to be holy include the Book of Mormon (4%) and the Torah (4%). A total of 7% of adults do not regard any book as sacred text. Practicing Catholics, Protestants, and even non- Christians are all more likely than average to name the Bible as sacred literature. While Boomers (those ages 46 to 64) are more likely to regard the Bible as sacred, Mosaics, the youngest adults (ages 18 to 26), are less likely. All differences noted are statistically significant. page 6

7 Beliefs about the Bible U.S. adults were presented with a number of ideas about sacred literature and asked whether or not they agree with each statement. A slightly majority of Americans (53%) strongly agree that the Bible contains everything a person needs to know to live a meaningful life. Elders (adults 65 and older) are even more likely to believe this to be true, as are Protestants. Nearly the same proportion of adults (51%) strongly but erroneously agree that the Bible teaches that God helps those who help themselves. Practicing Catholics are even more likely to hold this belief. Only one out of every six Americans (17%) are in strong agreement that the Bible, the Koran, and the Book of Mormon are all different expressions of the same spiritual truths. Those adults with no religious faith or a non-christian faith, along with Catholics, are more inclined to believe these sacred pieces of literature essentially convey the same truths. Relatively few believe the Bible can only be correctly interpreted by people who have years of intense training in theology (9% strongly agree) suggesting that most adults believe it to be accessible to the common person. Three out of four adults do not consider extensive training a requirement to interpret the Bible (50% strongly disagree, 23% somewhat disagree). The proportion of adults who strongly agree that the Bible contains everything they need to know in order to live a meaningful life increased 8 percentage points from 67% in 2002 to 75% in 2011, a statistically significant change. Another change was a decrease in those who strongly agree that the Bible, Koran and Book of Mormon are different expressions of the same spiritual truths, from 21% in 2008 to 17% currently. The Bible s Role in U.S. Society A slight majority of adults (54%) believe the Bible has too little influence in U.S. society today more than four times the proportion of those who think it has too much influence (13%). The remaining 28% of adults consider the Bible s role and influence to be just right. Practicing Protestants are more inclined to believe the Bible has too little influence, while those of a non-christian faith or with no religious faith are far more likely to think the Bible is too influential. page 7

8 Views of the Bible To further assess perceptions of the Bible, a number of statements were presented, with adults asked about their level of agreement with each on a 4-point scale ranging from strongly agree to strongly disagree. When asked if God regularly speaks to them through the Bible, slightly fewer than half of the adult population in this country (45%) say they strongly agree. Fewer adults are in strong agreement about using the Bible to guide major (39%) or minor (32%) decisions. It should be noted, however, than when all categories of agreement are combined (i.e., agree strongly and agree somewhat), the majority of adults say that God speaks to them through the Bible and that they use it to guide their decisions (major and minor). Other findings are as follows: Six out of every ten adults (61%) strongly disagree with the statement the Bible is not credible or trustworthy, compared to only 8% who strongly agree. The majority (54%) also strongly reject the concept that the Bible is not relevant to their life, while one in nine (11%) are in strong agreement. A similar proportion (53%) also strongly disagree that the Bible is boring, with only 6% in strong agreement with that particular description. Views of the Bible are somewhat more dispersed with regard to ideas about tolerance. While 36% of adults strongly disagree that the Bible teaches intolerance, 16% strongly agree. Adults are nearly split with regard to their perceptions of understandability; exactly half agree (with 13% in strong agreement), while nearly half disagree (with 24% in strong disagreement). page 8

9 n=1,011; *phone and online, n=2,007 page 9

10 Implications Regarding Bible Perceptions Americans view the Bible to be the foremost holy book. Perhaps underscoring the nation s traditional value of independence and a do it yourself mentality, a majority of adults believe that the Bible teaches that God helps those who help themselves. By their own self-report, most Americans depend on the Bible to some extent hearing God through the inspired pages of the sacred text and using its wisdom to help them with decisions. Most Americans consider the Bible to be trustworthy, relevant and interesting, while at least half think it is difficult to understand. page 10

11 2. Bible Penetration Household Bible ownership along with versions of the Bible owned are revealed in this chapter. Bible Ownership Nearly nine out of every ten U.S. adults (88%) say their household owns a Bible. Elders and Boomers are slightly more likely to have a Bible in their homes, while Buster and Mosaics are somewhat less likely. Virtually all evangelical Christians and Protestants (100% of each respondent segment) say they own a Bible, while Bible ownership exceeds 90% for: born agains, those with an active faith, Bible readers, church attenders, African-Americans, Catholics, selfidentified Christians, Elders and Boomers, and residents of the South. Not surprisingly, atheists or agnostics, those who do not consider themselves to be Christians, those with a non-christian or other faith, those who do not read the Bible, and those who do not attend church are all far less likely than average to say their household owns a Bible. All differences noted are statistically significant; a complete list appears in the table on the next page. Bible ownership has decreased over the past two decades, from 92% in 1993 to 88% in 2011 a statistically significant change. page 11

12 Segmentation Analysis: Household owns a Bible (average 88%) Above average ownership Below average ownership evangelical (100%) currently single (86%) Protestant (100%) never married (85%) non-evangelical born again (99%) college graduate (84%) all born-again (99%) lack an active faith (84%) active faith (99%) reside in the West (84%) Bible reader (99%) Baby Buster, age (83%) weekly church attender (98%) Mosaic, age (83%) all Protestant (98%) household income of $60K plus annually (83%) non-mainline denomination (98%) reside in the Northeast (83%) monthly church attender (97%) not a born again Christian (80%) mainline denomination (96%) unchurched (76%) African-American (95%) not a Bible reader (77%) Catholic (94%) subscribe to a non-christian faith (74%) self-identified Christian (93%) other faith or no faith (65%) Baby Boomer, age (92%) do not identify with the term Christian (62%) Elder, age 65 plus (92%) atheist or agnostic (57%) reside in the South (91%) household annual income <$40K (90%) have experienced a divorce (91%) high school education, no college (90%) married (90%) All differences listed are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. page 12

13 Number of Bibles Owned American Bible-owners have an average of 3 Bibles in their home (median of 3.4). A total of 17% of Bible owners have one Bible, 35% have two Bibles, 26% have four to five Bibles, and 22% have six or more Bibles in their household. The median number of Bibles has increased slightly since 1993, from 3.0 to 3.4 Bibles per household. Bible Translations Owned The King James Version (KJV) is the predominant translation of the Bible by far; nearly six out of every ten adults who own a Bible (57%) say they own this version. The New King James Version (NKJV) is owned by 17%. One out of every eight Bible owners (12%) say they have the New International Version (NIV), while 5% say they have the English Standard Version (ESV). All other translations of the Bible are noted by 4% or fewer Bible-owners. One in five adult Bible owners (21%) are unable to identify the version of the Bible they own. page 13

14 Implications Regarding Bible Penetration The importance of the Bible is underscored by the fact that nearly nine out of every ten Americans say their household owns the Good Book. While the Bible remains in a significant proportion of U.S. homes, overall ownership has decreased slightly over the years. The King James Version continues to lead in terms of Bibles owned and far surpasses any other translation. page 14

15 3. Bible Engagement The ways in which adults engage in the Bible are addressed in this chapter. Please note that many of the questions in this section were applicable only to those who read the Bible. Bible readers are defined as those who read the Bible anywhere from three or four times a year to those who read it daily. Bible Readership About half of U.S. adults do not read the Bible on their own; 25% say they never read it, 13% read it less than once a year, and 11% read it only once or twice a year, not including times when they are at a church service or church event. One in nine adults (11%) say they read the Bible daily, while 15% spend time in with scripture several times per week, 8% read it once a week, and 16% read it less often than weekly (between 3 and 12 times a year). Practicing Protestants are three times more likely than average to read the Bible daily (30%), and Elders are also more inclined to read the Bible every day. The proportion of adults who read the Bible only once or twice a year decreased over the past decade, from 16% in 1999 to 11% this year, while the proportion who never read the Bible increased (from 21% in 1999 to 25% in 2011). As a whole, Bible readers are far more likely than average to be evangelicals, have an active faith, be Protestants, be born again, and be weekly church attenders. (See table on next page for the characteristics of Bible readers.) page 15

16 Segmentation Analysis: Bible Reader* (average 49%) Above average readership Below average readership evangelical (96%) currently single (46%) have an active faith (95%) Caucasian (46%) faith, Protestant (89%) men (45%) born again (77%) Baby Buster, age (45%) attended church in the past week (77%) college graduate (44%) Protestant, non-mainline (75%) reside in the West (44%) non-evangelical born again (72%) household income of $60K plus annually (40%) African-American (71%) non-christian faith (37%) Protestant (69%) reside in the Northeast (37%) attended church past month-not last week (64%) non Christian (36%) reside in the South (60%) notional (35%) self-identified Christian (56%) Catholic (34%) Protestant, mainline (55%) do not have an active faith (33%) Baby Boomer, age (53%) not a born again Christian (30%) household income <$40K annually (53%) other faith or no faith (22%) women (52%) unchurched (19%) do not identify with the label Christian (16%) atheist or agnostic (8%) * Bible readers are defined as those who report reading the Bible at least 3-4 times annually. All differences listed are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. page 16

17 Bible Version Read Nearly half of all Bible readers (45%) use the King James Version most often; far fewer say they read the New International Version (10%) or New King James Version. All other translations were mentioned by 3% or fewer Bible readers. Practicing Protestants are more likely to read the NIV or NKJV, while Elders are less likely to read the NIV. A comparison of this year s findings to data from a Barna Research study of Bible owners conducted in 1999 suggests that awareness of the various translations of the Bible may have increased. While the proportion of those who said they didn t know which version of the Bible they read most often decreased significantly (from 34% in 1999 to 12% this year), mentions of readership of the KJV, NIV and NKJV all increased. (See Table 3.2 in the Data Tables section for details.) page 17

18 Motivations for Reading the Bible Bible readers were presented with a list of possible reasons for reading the Bible. By far, the most common reason for reading the Bible (noted by 64% of Bible readers) is that it brings them closer to God. Far fewer spend time in scripture because they need comfort (14%) or have a problem they need to solve or need direction (12%). Bible Reading Habits More than half of adult Bible readers (55%) typically read the Bible by themselves, while 36% read it both by themselves and with others in their home. Elders, in particular, are more inclined to read the Bible by themselves. Desire for Bible Readership Two-third of U.S. adults (67%) say they wish they read the Bible more. Women, Boomers, blacks, residents of the south, those with less than a college education, evangelicals, born agains, self-identified Christians, those in mainline and non-mainline denominations, church attenders and Bible readers are all more likely than average to desire more time in the word of God. page 18

19 Frustrations in Reading the Bible When presented with a number of potential frustrations when it comes to reading the Bible, more adults (37%) said they never seem to have enough time to read it. This single frustration surpassed all others that were assessed including: finding the language difficult to relate to (13%), not feeling that excited about reading it (9%), not understanding the background or history of the Bible (8%), and never finding the stories or verse they are looking for (5%). Nearly one out of every five adults (19%) say they have no frustrations in reading the Bible. In looking at comparative data from Barna archives, the decreasing lack of time is an even more present reality for Americans. An even higher proportion of adults report their busyness as an impediment today than was true in Impact of Reading the Bible Adults who said they read the Bible once a month or more often were asked whether or not they felt inspired to think differently or take certain actions as a result of reading or studying the Bible. A total of five activities or ideas were presented to frequent Bible readers, who were asked whether or not it applied to them. More than six out of every ten frequent Bible readers feel their outlook on life has become more positive as a result of their Bible-reading experience in the past month (62% say this completely describes their experience) and that they are more willing to engage in their faith (61%). Another 55% say they showed more loving behavior toward others. Fewer frequent Bible readers say they were more generous with their time, energy or financial resources (39% completely describes their experience) or that their past month s Bible reading increased their activity or involvements at a local church (37%). Overall, most frequent Bible readers experience favorable outcomes as a result of reading the Bible, according to their own self-report, as evidenced by the combined completely describes you and somewhat describes you categories. page 19

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21 Bible s Application to Life In a separate inquiry among those adults who read the Bible in the past week, most (61%) say they gave a lot of thought to how it might apply to their life, while 34% gave some thought to its applicability. Only 4% did not give any thought to how the Bible might apply to their life. Practicing Protestants who read the Bible in the past week are more likely to think about applying the Bible to their lives, while non- Christians (also Bible readers) are less likely. Bible Formats Used Adult Bible readers were asked about a variety of ways in which the Bible is available and asked whether or not they had used that format in the past year. Nine out of every ten Bible readers (89%) say they read from a print version of the Bible on their own the most predominant of the formats tested by far. The majority of Bible readers (55%) also attended a small group or Bible study, where they studied the Bible in a group, not including during weekend church worship services. page 21

22 Nearly four in ten Bible-reading adults (37%) used the Internet on a computer to read Bible content during the past year, while 28% listened to an audio version of the Bible, 24% listened to a teaching about the Bible via podcast, 18% searched for Bible verses or Bible content on a smart phone or cell phone, and 12% read an electronic version of the Bible on an e-reader such as a Kindle or ipad. Among U.S. adults with a mobile or smart phone, 13% say they have a Bible app downloaded on their phone. page 22

23 Implications Regarding Bible Engagement Despite their high regard for the Bible and extraordinary levels of ownership, half of U.S. adults really don t read the sacred scriptures on their own. In addition, the proportion of the population that is not reading the Bible is increasing, which is consistent with decreasing Bible ownership. It is not clear if readership of key translations (i.e., KJV, NKJV and NIV) has increased, or if adults simply have better recall of the particular version(s) they read. While the print version of the Bible is the most widely used format among Bible readers, other technologies appear to be gaining ground. Sizable proportions of Bible readers are using the Internet, listening to audio versions and podcasts, and using their cell phones, smart phones and e-readers to read or access the Bible. page 23

24 4. Bible Literacy Americans knowledge of the Bible is explored in this final chapter. Self- assessment of Biblical Knowledge The majority of adults in the U.S. (56%) consider themselves about average when it comes to how knowledgeable they feel about the Bible. The remaining adults are split between those who believe they are quite knowledgeable (5% completely, 18% highly knowledgeable) and those who are at the other extreme (18% not too, 3% not at all knowledgeable). Evangelicals, those with an active faith, and those in a non-christian faith, are among adults more likely than average to consider themselves completely or highly knowledgeable about the Bible. In comparison, Catholics, non-bible readers, and those who do not attend church are far less likely to think of themselves as having a great deal of biblical knowledge. page 24

25 Segmentation Analysis: Completely or highly knowledgeable about the Bible (average 22%) Above average evangelical (46%) active faith (37%) subscribe to a non-christian faith (34%) Protestant, non-mainline (31%) Protestant (31%) attended church in the past week (31%) African-American (31%) Bible reader (28%) born again (27%) all Protestant (27%) men (26%) Below average women (19%) non-born again (19%) household income between $40K to $60K (17%) notional (17%) lack an active faith (16%) non- Christian (16%) unchurched (15%) non Bible-reader (14%) Catholic (12%) Catholic (11%) All differences listed are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. Bible as Literal or Inspired Word of God Presented with a number of possible descriptions of the Bible, more Americans believe it to be inspired (with some symbolism) than literal. Three out of ten adults (31%) say the Bible is the inspired word of God and has no errors, although some verses are meant to be symbolic rather than literal. One-quarter of Americans (24%) consider the Bible to be the actual word of God that should be taken literally, word for word. Smaller proportions of adults think the Bible is the inspired word of God but has some factual or historical errors (14%). About one-fifth of Americans expressed the strong skepticism of scripture, that it is just another book of teachings written by men that contains stories and advice (12%) or that it is not inspired by God but just a book that tells how its writers understood the ways and principles of God (8%). In total, 9% of adults answered don t know, being unable to select from the five descriptions a sentiment that matched their opinion. Both Protestants and Catholics are more inclined to believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God, while Protestants are also more likely to consider the Bible to be the actual, literal Word of God. Those of non-christian faiths or no faith are more likely to believe the Bible is just another book of teachings written by men. page 25

26 A comparison of this data to a measurement taken by Barna Group in 2007 reveals that slightly fewer adults believe the Bible has factual or historical errors (18% in 2007, 14% in 2011) or that it was not inspired by God (11% in 2007, 8% in 2011). In addition, slightly more people are unsure of what they believe about the Bible (5% in 2007, 9% in 2011). Measures on the other descriptions of the Bible were statistically unchanged. page 26

27 Bible Literacy To assess knowledge of the content, teachings or structure of the Bible, a series of questions were asked of adults. These results are presented below. First Book of the Bible Three out of every four U.S. adults (76%) correctly name Genesis as the first book of the Bible. Boomers and Protestants are among those more likely than average to know the book of Genesis as the first book of the Bible. Language of the Bible A majority of Americans (57%) know that Hebrew is the original language in which most of the Bible s Old Testament was written. In comparison, fewer than half as many adults (27%) are able to name Greek as the original language in which most of the Bible s New Testament was written. Chapter When asked about the meaning of the three when they hear (or see) the phrase John 3:16 in reference to the Bible, two-thirds of adults (68%) correctly identify it as referring to the chapter or more specifically, the third chapter of the book of John. Boomers and Protestants are more likely to know the chapter designation, while Elders, non- Christians and those of other faiths or no faith are less likely to know about it. page 27

28 King James Version When asked about the timing of the release of the King James Version of the Bible, one-third of U.S. adults (34%) say they are just not sure. However, one out of every four adults (24%) correctly state that the KJV was released about 400 years ago a higher proportion than any of the other response options presented. A total of 17% of the adult population believes the KJV came out shortly after the time of Christ, while 11% think it was released about 1,000 years ago, and 9% say it emerged about 200 years ago. One in twenty adults (5%) believe the KJV was released about 100 years ago. Interestingly, adults with a non-christian faith or no faith are among those more likely than average to know when the KJV was released (as were Protestants and Boomers). Non Christians are among those less likely to correctly identify the release of that version of the Bible. Correct response appears in red bar page 28

29 Similar to the findings regarding the KJV s release, one-third of adults (33%) are not sure of the significance of this particular version of the Bible. Three out of every ten adults (29%) correctly identify it is as the most printed Bible in history, while 23% believe it to be the first English language Bible. Fewer than one in ten Americans each believe the KJV is the only Bible translated by a king (8%) or that it is the first Protestant Bible (8%). Practicing Protestants and Boomers are more likely to know the KJV is the most printed Bible, while non- Christians, Mosaics, and Catholics are less likely to know the significance of this translation. Correct response appears in red bar page 29

30 Implications Regarding Bible Literacy Despite the sheer breadth and complexity of the Bible, a majority of Americans feel they have an average understanding of it. Perhaps even more surprising is that nearly a quarter of U.S. adults consider themselves quite knowledgeable even completely so on the topic. Although there are diverse opinions about what the Bible contains and how it came to be, nearly 7 out of 10 Americans (69%) describe the Bible as the inspired word of God. Also, a majority believe it to be without error, although this group is split between those who believe some portions of the Bible are meant to be symbolic and those who see the Bible as literal. Most Americans knew the answers to three out of four questions designed to test basic Bible literacy, affirming that they have some level of familiarity and understanding. They are less competent when it comes to describing the history and significance of the King James Bible. page 30

31 A P P E N D I X page 31

32 D A T A T A B L E S Note to Reader Data is also shown with a ( ) or ( ) sign, if applicable, to indicate if the data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults in the study as well as to indicate change over time. Where these tests of significance have been performed, differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. page 32

33 1. Bible Perceptions TABLE 1.1 BOOKS CONSIDERED TO BE SACRED OR HOLY Question: To start with, what books, if any, do you consider sacred literature or holy books? (MULTIPLE RESPONSE) all Mosaier Bust- Boomadults er Elder the Bible 86% 76% 85% 90% 89% 94% 97% 89% 56% Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian the Koran Book of Mormon Torah other none not sure no faith/ other faith n= Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. page 33

34 TABLE 1.2 BELIEFS ABOUT THE BIBLE Question: I would like to read some statements about sacred literature and would like to know whether you agree or disagree with each statement? % agree strongly the Bible contains everything a person needs to know to live a meaningful life the Bible teaches that God helps those who help themselves the Bible, the Koran, and the Book of Mormon are all different expressions of the same spiritual truths* the Bible can only be correctly interpreted by people who have years of intense training in theology all adults Boomer Elder Mosaic Buster Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian no faith/ other faith 53% 44% 49% 57% 61% 81% 59% 42% 18% *online + phone sample size = telephone sample size= * denotes questions asked in the online survey and the telephone survey. Questions without a * denote questions asked in the telephone survey only Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. page 34

35 TABLE 1.2 BELIEFS ABOUT THE BIBLE (CONT.) Question: I would like to read some statements about sacred literature and would like to know whether you agree or disagree with each statement? Beliefs about the Bible (% agree strongly) the Bible contains everything a person needs to know to live a meaningful life (total agree) (1) the Bible teaches that God helps those who help themselves (2) the Bible, the Koran, and the Book of Mormon are all different expressions of the same spiritual truths (3) the Bible can only be correctly interpreted by people who have years of intense training in theology (4) Barna Research (dates vary) ABS 2011 Change statistically significant** 67% 75% * 9 9 *online + telephone sample size= 1982 telephone sample size= 1011 * denotes questions asked in the online survey and the telephone survey. Questions without a * denote questions asked in the telephone survey only ** at the 95% confidence level (1) Barna Group telephone interviews with 1008 US adults, Respondents were asked if they agree or disagree. (2) Barna Group telephone interviews with 461 US adults, 2001 (3) Barna Group telephone interviews with 1004 US adults, 2008 (4) Barna Group telephone interviews with 601 US adults, 2002 page 35

36 ABS 2011 the Bible contains everything a person needs to know to live a meaningful life agree strongly 53% agree somewhat 22 disagree somewhat 11 disagree strongly 12 not sure 2 the Bible teaches that God helps those who help themselves agree strongly 51 agree somewhat 24 disagree somewhat 9 disagree strongly 12 not sure 3 the Bible, the Koran, and the Book of Mormon are all different expressions of the same spiritual truths* agree strongly 17 agree somewhat 33 disagree somewhat 17 disagree strongly 28 not sure 6 the Bible can only be correctly interpreted by people who have years of intense training in theology agree strongly 9 agree somewhat 15 disagree somewhat 23 disagree strongly 50 not sure 3 *online + telephone sample size= 1982 telephone sample size= 1011 * denotes questions asked in the online survey and the telephone survey. Questions without a * denote questions asked in the telephone survey only page 36

37 TABLE 1.3 THE ROLE OF THE BIBLE IN U.S. SOCIETY Question: Some people believe that the Bible should have a greater role in U.S. society today, while others believe that the Bible should have less influence. Do you think the Bible has too much, too little, or just the right amount of influence in U.S. society today? all Mosaier Bust- Boomadults er Elder too much influence 13% 15% 14% 12% 9% 4% 8% 12% 37% Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian too little influence just right not sure no faith/ other faith n= Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. page 37

38 TABLE 1.4 VIEWS OF THE BIBLE Question: I am going to read statements that a person could make about the Bible. I would like to know whether you agree or disagree with each of these phrases or statements? % agree strongly God regularly speaks to you through the Bible you use the Bible to guide major decisions you use the Bible to guide minor decisions all adults Boomer Elder Mosaic Buster Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian no faith/ other faith 45% 43% 38% 48% 53% 70% 44% 34% 17% the Bible teaches intolerance* the Bible is hard to understand* the Bible is not relevant to your life* the Bible is not credible or trustworthy* the Bible is boring* online + phone sample size = phone sample size= * denotes questions asked in the online survey and the telephone survey. Questions without a * denote questions asked in the telephone survey only Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. all adults God regularly speaks to you through the Bible agree strongly 45% agree somewhat 24 disagree somewhat 11 disagree strongly 17 not sure 4 you use the Bible to guide major decisions agree strongly 39 agree somewhat 25 disagree somewhat 16 disagree strongly 18 not sure 2 page 38

39 VIEWS OF THE BIBLE (CONTINUED) all adults you use the Bible to guide minor decisions agree strongly 32% agree somewhat 28 disagree somewhat 18 disagree strongly 20 not sure 2 the Bible teaches intolerance* agree strongly 16 agree somewhat 19 disagree somewhat 16 disagree strongly 36 not sure 13 the Bible is hard to understand* agree strongly 13 agree somewhat 37 disagree somewhat 22 disagree strongly 24 not sure 4 the Bible is not relevant to your life* agree strongly 11 agree somewhat 11 disagree somewhat 19 disagree strongly 54 not sure 5 the Bible is not credible or trustworthy* agree strongly 8 agree somewhat 8 disagree somewhat 16 disagree strongly 61 not sure 7 * denotes questions asked in the online survey and the telephone survey. Questions without a * denote questions asked in the telephone survey only page 39

40 VIEWS OF THE BIBLE (CONTINUED) the Bible is boring* all adults agree strongly 6% agree somewhat 15 disagree somewhat 21 disagree strongly 53 not sure 5 *online + telephone sample size = 2007 telephone only sample size= 1011 * denotes questions asked in the online survey and the telephone survey. Questions without a * denote questions asked in the telephone survey only page 40

41 2. Bible Penetration TABLE 2.1 HOUSEHOLDS WHO OWN A BIBLE Question: Does your household own a Bible? all Mosaier Bust- Boomadults er Elder yes 88% 83% 83% 92% 92% 100% 94% 89% 65% Protestant Catholic non pract. Chris -tian no * * indicates less than one-half of one percent no faith/ other faith n= Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. all Change adults ABS statistically own a Bible? significant** yes 92% 88% no 8 12 * indicates less than one-half of one percent **at the 95% confidence level n= NOTE: Historical data collected by telephone interviews; 2011 data collected by telephone and online surveys. page 41

42 TABLE 2.2 NUMBER OF BIBLES PER HOUSEHOLD Question: How many Bibles, in total, does your household own? % own a Bible (without don t know) all Mosaier Bust- Boomadults er Elder one 17% 17% 19% 16% 16% 7% 23% 21% 29% Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian two to three four to five six or more mean median no faith/ other faith n= number of Bibles owned? % own a Bible all adults 1993 ABS 2011 mean median n= NOTE: Historical data collected by telephone interviews; 2011 data collected by telephone and online surveys. page 42

43 TABLE 2.3 TRANSLATIONS OWNED Question: Which Bible versions or translations do you own? (MULTIPLE RESPONSE) all Mosaier er Elder Bust- Boom- % own a Bible adults King James Version 57% 43% 57% 61% 59% 73% 34% 51% 46% Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian New King James Version New International Version English Standard Version New Living Translation New American Standard Bible New Revised Standard Version Contemporary English Version New International Reader s Version Good News Translation The Message * 0 New American Bible Amplified Bible Holman Christian Standard Bible Today s New International Version New Century Version * other don t know, unsure none * * indicates less than one-half of one percent no faith/ other faith n= Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. page 43

44 3. Bible Engagement TABLE 3.1 TIME SPENT READING THE BIBLE Question: How often, if ever, do you actually read the Bible, not including times when you are at a church service or church event? all Mosaier Bust- Boomadults er Elder never 25% 29% 30% 20% 21% 2% 17% 27% 53% Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian less than once a year once or twice a year three or four times a year once a month once a week several times a week four or more times a week every day not sure no faith/ other faith n= Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. Barna Change Research ABS statistically Frequency of Bible Reading significant** Never 21% 25% less than once a year once or twice a year three or four times a year 9 8 once a month 8 8 once a week 8 8 several times/4+ times a week every day not sure 2 3 n= ** at the 95% confidence level NOTE: Historical data collected by telephone interviews; 2011 data collected by telephone and online surveys. page 44

45 TABLE 3.2 VERSIONS READ MOST OFTEN Question: There are many versions or translations of the Bible available these days. As far as you know, what is the version or translation of the Bible you read most often? all Mosaier er Elder Bust- Boom- % among Bible readers adults King James Version 45% 36% 48% 48% 43% 46% 41% 50% 29% Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian New International Version New King James Version English Standard Version New Living Translation New American Standard Bible Amplified Bible Contemporary English Version The Message * New American Bible * New International Reader s Version New Revised Standard Version 1 0 * New Century Version * * Good News Translation * 0 0 * 1 * 0 * 0 Holman Christian Standard Bible Today s New International Version other don t know, unsure * indicates less than one-half of one percent n= Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. no faith/ other faith page 45

46 Barna version read most often Change Research ABS statistically (% of Bible readers) significant** King James Version 38% 45% New International Version 5 10 Living Bible 5 NA New King James Version 3 10 New American Standard Bible 2 2 New Revised Standard Version 1 1 Revised Standard 1 NA English Standard Version NA 3 New Living Translation NA 2 Amplified Bible NA 2 Contemporary English Version NA 1 New American Bible NA 1 New International Reader s Version NA 1 The Message NA 1 Good News Translation NA * New Century Version NA * Holman Christian Standard Bible NA 0 Today s New International Version NA 0 other 9 8 don t know, unsure none 2 NA * indicates less than one-half of one percent n= NOTE: 1993 question was asked among adults in households who own a Bible, 2011 question was asked of adults who are Bible readers. The comparability between these measurements must be qualified in this manner. NA = not tested page 46

47 TABLE 3.3 MOTIVATIONS FOR READING THE BIBLE Question: I d like to read a few reasons that people may read the Bible. Please tell me which statement is most true for you? % among Bible readers (read Bible at least three to four times a year) all Mosaier Bust- Boomadults er Elder it brings me closer to God 64% 52% 65% 64% 71% 78% 58% 48% 51% Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian I need comfort I have a problem I need to solve or I need direction it is part of my studies at school I know I m suppose to not sure n= no faith/ other faith Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. page 47

48 TABLE 3.4 READ BIBLE BY SELF OR WITH OTHERS Question: Do you typically read the bible by yourself, with other members of your household, or both? all Mosaier er Elder Bust- Boom- % Bible readers adults by self 55% 50% 47% 58% 71% 51% 62% 57% 53% Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian with others in household both by self and with others in household don t know n= no faith/ other faith Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. page 48

49 TABLE 3.5 DESIRE TO READ BIBLE MORE Question: Do you wish that you read the Bible more or not? all Mosaier Bust- Boomadults er Elder Yes 67% 70% 62% 72% 65% 86% 77% 64% 32% Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian no don t know no faith/ other faith n= Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. page 49

50 TABLE 3.6 FRUSTRATIONS IN READING THE BIBLE Question: Which of the following would you say is your most significant frustration when it comes to reading the Bible? all Mosaier Bust- Boomadults er Elder never have enough time to read it 37% 36% 36% 41% 32% 48% 38% 34% 16% Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian language is difficult to relate to don t feel excited about reading it don t understand background or history of the Bible can never find the stories or verses you are looking for do not read the Bible none / no frustrations other don t know no faith/ other faith n= Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. Barna Change frustrations with Bible Research ABS statistically (% of weekly Bible readers) significant** never have enough time to read it don t feel excited about reading it 2 4 don t understand background or history of the Bible 5 8 language is difficult to relate to can never find the stories or verses you are looking for 4 4 none / no frustrations other 2 2 don t know 4 4 n= page 50

51 TABLE 3.7 IMPACT OF READING THE BIBLE Question: As a result of reading or studying the Bible, some people may feel inspired to think differently or take certain actions, while others are not. I am going to read a few statements. For each one, please tell me whether or not that statement describes you as a result of your Bible-reading experience in the past month. % read Bible at least once a month all adults Boomer Mosaic Buster Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian Elder felt that your outlook on life has become more positive completely 62% 65% 55% 65% 67% 69% 65% 51% 55% somewhat more willing to engage in your faith completely somewhat showed more loving behavior towards others completely somewhat more generous with your time, energy or financial resources completely somewhat increased your activity or involvement at a local church completely somewhat n= no faith/ other faith Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. page 51

52 TABLE 3.8 BIBLE S APPLICATION TO LIFE Question: You mentioned that you read from the Bible in the past week. After reading the Bible, would you say that you: (READ RESPONSES)? % read Bible in the past seven days gave a lot of thought to how it might apply to your life gave some thought to how it might apply to your life did not give any thought to how it might apply to your life all adults Boomer Elder Mosaic Buster Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian no faith/ other faith 61% 51% 62% 62% 63% 67% 54% 44% 59% not sure n= Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. page 52

53 TABLE 3.9 BIBLE FORMATS USED Question: These days, the Bible is available and used in different formats. For each format I read, please tell me whether or not you have used that format in the past year? % among Bible readers read from a print version of the Bible on your own attended a small group or Bible study, where you studies the Bible in a group, not including weekend worship services used the Internet on a computer to read Bible content listened to an audio version of the Bible listened to a teaching about the Bible via podcast searched for Bible verses or Bible content on a smart phone or cell phone read an electronic version of the Bible on an e-reader such as Kindle or ipad all adults Boomer Elder Mosaic Buster Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian no faith/ other faith 89% 80% 89% 92% 89% 93% 98% 84% 89% n= Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. page 53

54 TABLE 3.10 DOWNLOADED BIBLE APPS ON PHONE Question: Do you have a Bible app downloaded on your phone? % among smart phone or mobile phone users all Mosaier Bust- Boomadults er Elder Yes 13% 19% 16% 11% 4% 23% 8% 8% 7% Protestant Catholic non pract. Christian No not sure * 2 0 * 0 * indicates less than one-half of one percent n= Note: A ( ) or ( ) sign indicates that data for that segment is statistically significantly higher or lower than the total response for all adults. Differences are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level or higher. no faith/ other faith page 54