Study Shows Americans Are Spiritually Hungry

2 Timothy 1:13
“Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus.”

A poll conducted by George Gallup reveals some alarming trends in Americans’ religious thinking. First, the good news is that more than 80 percent of Americans desire to grow spiritually. Secondly, Christian religion continues to show wide popularity, with church attendance remaining steady over the last half century. Also positive is that people are seeking a more meaningful and deeper spiritual life. Gallup attributes this to the failure of materialism to satisfy the human heart.

However, Gallup’s study found that there is widespread ignorance about the Bible, basic Christian teachings and traditions. Even more disturbing is that the study found that Christians generally don’t know what they believe or why. As a result, Gallup found a widespread tendency to mix Christian and non-Christian beliefs. People tend to pick and choose what they want of Christianity, along with beliefs from other religions. For example, Gallup cites evangelical Christians who also believe in reincarnation. Here at Creation Moments, we frequently run into people who profess to be Bible believing Christians, and still believe that God used evolution to make the world we know today.

A good part of our ministry is to help people understand what the Bible says and to know why they believe it is true. However, that is a job that belongs to every Christian. When each of us takes this seriously, we will be able to offer others the true spirituality that so many are now seeking.

Dear Father, grant me a more complete understanding of Your Word. Amen.

Author: Paul A. Bartz

Ref: Reporter, 4/00, p. 8a, “Gallup: Americans embrace ‘pick and choose’ faith.”