The National Biblical Literacy Survey 2009 has revealed a disquieting lack of knowledge of the Bible. The 900 respondents involved in the research were from both religious and secular backgrounds, with three quarters disclosing possession of a copy of the Bible. In spite of this high level of ownership, many of those questioned struggled to identify key features of the text, including the parables of the Prodigal Son and the Good Samaritan. Furthermore, less than one in twenty were able to name all Ten Commandments.
As well as a lack of knowledge, the survey has also uncovered some apathy toward the Bible. The evidence suggests that for younger age groups at least, the Bible is increasingly viewed as ‘old fashioned ’and ‘irrelevant. This research has been welcomed by atheists as proof than religion within Britain is in decline. However, Christians can take comfort in Rev. Brian D. Brown’s analysis, that “[m]any respondents said they still turn to the Bible for support and guidance at key moments.”
In Pursuit of a Singular Text: New Testament Textual Criticism and the Desire for the True Original
By Jennifer Wright Knust
(Vol. 3, March 2008)
Religion Compass
Theology and the Lure of the Practical: An Overview
By Mary McClintock Fulkerson
(Vol. 2, February 2007)
Religion Compass
Tags: Bible, British Humanist Association, comfort, Daniel, David and Goliath, Decalogue, Dot Cotton, Durham University, Faith, Good Samaritan, knowledge, National Biblical Literacy Survey 2009, Old Fashioned, religion, religious studies, Rev Brian D. Brown, Secular Society, St John's College, Ten Commandments, The Lion King, understanding
