American Bible Society on the Bible in America, 2013

American Bible Society recently released the findings from its annual ‘State of the Bible’ survey, conducted by the Barna Group.

For those who like infographics, there is a diagram of the results here, and an analysis here.

In summary:

‘As in previous years, the survey found that the Bible remains a highly valued, influential force in America. But beliefs about the Bible and its role in society are becoming increasingly polarized – particularly when the data is examined by age group.

‘The research also uncovered a significant disconnect in belief versus behavior. While 66% of those surveyed agreed that the Bible contains everything a person needs to know to live a meaningful life, 58% say they don’t personally want wisdom and advice from the Bible and about the same amount (57%) read it fewer than five times per year.’

Key findings include:

• 1 in 6 people reported buying a copy of the Bible in the last year

• 80% of Americans identify the Bible as sacred

• Americans have plenty of copies at their fingertips – with an average of 4.4 Bibles per household

• 56% of adults believe the Bible should have a greater role in U.S. society

• But actual Bible reading and perceptions about the Bible have become increasingly polarized, with 6 million new Bible Antagonists in the last year alone

• More than half (57%) of those ages 18-28 report reading the Bible less than three times a year or never