Valuing the Scriptures …
Good news! According to Barna’s research in the United States (August 2014): “When it comes to the Bible – more than many other areas of their faith – *Millennial Christians are starting off on comparatively solid ground.”
The three main findings from the MillennialPollSM are:
- Christian Millennials hold a high view of Scripture
- Non-Christian Millennials mainly hold negative views of Scripture
- Christian Millennials prefer to read the Bible in a printed form
On the whole, Bible reading among Christian Millennials is considered one of their highest priorities, ranking it as more important than church attendance. It is also ranked as their greatest source of moral truth, and they believe it holds everything they need to know to live a meaningful life.
Concerning the different mediums for connecting with the Bible, Christian Millennials:
- are more likely to read a printed version of the Bible
- like hearing the Bible read publicly at church
- read multiple online versions of the Bible
- have probably seen the latest Hollywood Bible-themed film
- will post and read Scripture texts on social media
So, what does this mean? The study concludes: “For the most part, the Bible is flourishing in the screen age, particularly among the faithful. Practicing Christian Millennials, in particular, are eager to see Bible-based content on the big screen and to engage with the Bible on the little screen . . .”
Read the full report of Millennials and the Bible: 3 Surprising Insights at: https://www.barna.org/barna-update/millennials/687-millennials-and-the-bible-3-surprising-insights#.VElaS_NzbIV
*Millennials are the generation born between 1982 and 2002
Related Articles
Connecting Millennials With the Bible
Building Connections: Why People Connect With the Bible
Summary
Valuing the Scriptures: Barna’s 2014 research reveals that Christian Millennials firmly commit to Scripture, valuing it more than other aspects of their faith, even prioritizing Bible reading over church attendance. They hold the Bible as their primary source of moral truth, believing it provides the answers for a meaningful life. While many Christian Millennials prefer reading a printed Bible, they also engage with Scripture through digital platforms and social media. The study suggests that despite living in a digital age, the Bible is thriving, especially among practicing Christian Millennials, who are enthusiastic about reading God’s Word in traditional and modern formats.
© Scripture Union Canada
