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.
Obama or God: Who said It?
Photo by Caleb KomorowskiA national survey conducted by Harris Interactive® for the American Bible Society found that a majority of Americans are having trouble recognizing some of the Bible's strongest promises for those who are struggling.Of the 1,001 U.S. adults surveyed, 54 percent attributed a Bible verse about caring for the poor and oppressed to celebrities and politicians rather than…
READ MOREHelping the Least, the Lost, and the Lonely
James Macklin, director of outreach for the Bowery MissionJames Macklin, 70, is a modestly dressed, simple black man with short, curly salt-and-pepper hair. He smiles as he shares his life's story, a grandfather-like poise communicating a love for the people around him.“One of my favorite sayings is ‘Never look down on another human being — whether man, woman or child…
READ MOREA Dream Comes True in Appalachia
Railroad in Logan County, West Virginia. Photo by Chris LeamanPastor Michael C. Hartwell is a jolly, talkative man who likes to tell funny stories, do impersonations and preach the Scriptures to the broken and needy who live in the heart of Appalachia in southern West Virginia. A former coal miner, he was given a copy of the New Testament one…
READ MOREAlways There in a Crisis
Soldiers unload supplies for Haitian earthquake victims (Photo courtesy of Water Mission International)“The thought of my pain, my homelessness, is bitter poison. I think of it constantly, and my spirit is depressed. Yet hope returns when I remember this one thing: The LORD's unfailing love and mercy still continue, fresh as the morning, as sure as the sunrise.” Lamentations 3.19-24…
READ MORECalling All Kids
An Egyptian boy waves his Kingo flag. Photo by Malorie Tull.The first thing that strikes you is the volume — the sound of thousands of children singing and clapping, as more and more stream in. For a moment, the heat and grime of the surrounding shantytown are forgotten. The amazing power of God's Word unleashes a palpable joy.Welcome to Egypt's…
READ MOREChanging Lives in Midtown Manhattan
Anthony Kravit shares how the Bible is showing him the love of Jesus. Video still by Eliu CornielleIn mid-January, hundreds of volunteers gathered at Calvary Baptist Church in New York City, preparing for a citywide homeless outreach event called “Don't Walk By.” The American Bible Society and The Bowery Mission, New York City's largest spiritually based homeless outreach program, provided…
READ MOREShare Scripture where it’s needed most
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