On today’s episode, we’re learning about the group of 65 million Americans who are curious about the Bible. We’ll dig into the research on this group and discuss strategies for effectively engaging them in your ministry.

Show Notes:

Summary

We talk with guest on the show John Plake from the American Bible Society.

We discuss the State of the Bible research project conducted by the American Bible Society, which explores how the Bible influences people’s lives and the needs of the movable middle, a group of people who are open to the message of the Bible but not deeply engaging with it. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the cultural background of the Bible and meeting people where they are in their spiritual journey.

We’ll debunk the myth that most Americans are hostile towards the Bible and emphasize the importance of understanding the needs and questions of those who are curious about the Bible. They also explore the role of technology, including AI, in Bible engagement and highlight the value of human interaction and authenticity in spiritual growth. The conversation touches on the rise of the ‘nones’ and the need for hyper-contextualization of the Bible to meet diverse needs.

Check out stateofthebible.org for more information and resources.

Takeaways

• The American Bible Society is dedicated to helping people engage with the word of God and creating opportunities for them to hear God speaking through the Bible.
• The Bible is a piece of technology that needs to be communicated in ways that are relevant to the culture and technology of the time.
• The State of the Bible research project explores how the Bible influences people’s lives and the needs of the movable middle, a group of people who are open to the message of the Bible but not deeply engaging with it.
• Understanding the cultural background of the Bible and meeting people where they are in their spiritual journey are key to helping them engage with the Bible.
• The Bible has the power to transform lives and relationships, and it is important to share its message with others. Americans are not aggressively anti-Bible; there is a curiosity and openness to exploring the Bible.
• Understanding the needs and questions of those who are curious about the Bible is crucial for effective engagement.
• Technology, including AI, can be a valuable tool for Bible engagement, but there is a recognition of the need for human and spiritual touch.
• The ‘nones’ represent a diverse group of people on a journey, and it is important to create accessible ways for them to engage with the Bible.
• The American Bible Society offers resources and initiatives to make the Bible accessible and engage with scripture in various formats.
• Learn more about John Plake and the American Bible Society: stateofthebible.org | americanbible.org
• Connect with Brandon Collins: brandoncollins.org – brandon.collins@ministryarchitects.com
• Connect with Renee Wilson: renee.wilson@ministryarchitects.com