Scripture engagement leads to knowing God—and lives changed forever. Now more than ever, Americans need to know God’s Word and the hope we have in its transformative message. The State of the Bible is a yearly, in-depth study, asking Americans their opinions and practices relating to the Bible, all made possible by generous supporters like you.
These Bible insights can provide critical information and give you direction for your Biblical ministry to help better serve the needs of people in your community.
Presidential Wisdom
Since the earliest days of the United States, those charged with leading the nation have found wisdom and courage in God's Word. In the spirit of Presidents' Day, we offer the following words from those who would have been in frequent need of a steady and trustworthy guide.“Almighty God, we make our earnest prayer that thou wilt keep the United…
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The Meaning of the Transfiguration
What is the full meaning of the transfiguration? Is it related to John 17, when Jesus asks the Father to glorify him?—Frank Rogers, via e-mailTransfiguration is a change in appearance: a glorifying, spiritual change. This event in Jesus' life appears in three of the Gospels: Matthew 17.1-13, Mark 9.2-8 and Luke 9.28-36. Jesus was transformed, or glorified, by God, and…
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Female Leaders
I seem to remember reading when God wanted to judge Israel, he would give them leaders who were either young and inexperienced or female. Is this true?— Ms. C. Joy Hulting, Aurora, Ill.Although I am unable to locate the specific Scripture, I can give you passages where God gave women leadership.Around 587 B.C., women in Israel held status and freedom…
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Scripture via Phonograph
I came across a 1962 article about a finger-powered phonograph that played Scriptures in 40 languages. Does anyone still make this kind of device?- John, via e-mailIn the late 1950s, the American Bible Society devised the finger-fono, powered by the turn of one finger. The finger-fono produced sound through a diaphragm (an acoustic device) and a needle located in the…
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Speaking Face to Face
I’m reading Exodus 33.11 and Exodus 33.20, and there is a seeming contradiction. Can you spot it?—Boyd Kiel, via e-mailThe first of these verses reads, “And the Lord spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend,” and the second, “Thou canst not see my face; for there shall no man see me, and live.” To…
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The Lord's Prayer. Different Translations?
In some translations, the Lord’s Prayer ends with the verse, “For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.” Why is this phrase not in all translations?—Patrick Bannerman, via e-mailYou are a close reader of Scripture! The phrase is a doxology. It was not included in the original prayer but was added to a later manuscript…
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