Recent research indicates a significant rise in Bible reading among young adults in the United States. According to the Barna Group, nearly half of individuals from Generation Z and Millennials—defined as those born between 1984 and 1998, and 1999 to 2015, respectively—are engaging with the Bible weekly. This uptick contributes to an overall increase in weekly Scripture reading among U.S. adults, which now stands at 42 percent, a substantial 12-point increase from the previous year.
These findings, presented by Barna’s CEO, suggest a growing spiritual curiosity among younger demographics. He describes this trend as indicative of a “reset moment” for Christian faith and practice in the country. Alongside this rise in reading frequency, there appears to be a divergence between interest and belief, with only 36 percent of Americans expressing strong affirmation of the Bible’s authority.
Despite the increase in readership, the Barna report highlights a notable gap between curiosity and conviction. While many Americans are turning to the Bible, not all readers embrace its teachings as authoritative. This is particularly striking considering the Bible’s claim to be the inspired Word of God, which Christians believe carries the same weight as divine authority.
The Scriptures themselves are central to the Christian faith. As noted in John 5:39, it is stated that the Scriptures testify of Jesus, emphasizing His suffering, resurrection, and the call for repentance and forgiveness of sins as proclaimed in Luke 24:46-47. However, during church services, only a fraction of the Bible is typically read, even for congregations that adhere to established lectionary readings.
In response to the need for comprehensive engagement with Scripture, the Rev. Dr. Jayson S. Galler, Pastor of Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Kilgore, encourages parishioners to participate in a daily Bible reading plan. This program allows participants to read through the entire Bible in one year, with specific attention to the Psalms and seasonal canticles included in the schedule.
The reading plan follows the Church Year and begins anew on December 1, though individuals can start at any time. Rev. Dr. Galler welcomes questions about the daily readings and invites community members to join in discussions during the Sunday Adult Bible Class at 9:30 a.m.. “We hope to foster a deeper understanding of the Scriptures and their relevance today,” he stated.
As more young adults engage with biblical texts, the implications for faith communities and spiritual development could be profound. The Barna Group’s insights reflect a broader trend that may influence church practices and community engagement in the coming years.
