The presidential election year of 2020 has highlighted Americans’ convictions about social issues, including racial and gender equality, the value of human life, sexuality and marriage, immigration, and more. But what role did the Bible play in all this?

In the latest chapter of the annual State of the Bible 2020 ebook, we probe to understand how Scripture engagement tends to shape Americans’ view on social justice and political identity. Now you can access Chapter 7: Scripture Engagement, Social Justice and Political Identity where we:

  • Examine the proportion of respondents who identified with major political parties;
  • Look at Scripture engagement levels through the lens of political identity, looking closely at how the Bible influences – or doesn’t influence – the decision to choose a political party for American Bible Users, and
  • See how the Bible influences Americans’ thinking on key social justice issues

Insights from State of the Bible 2020

So, what did the study reveal? Across the political spectrum and the myriad of social challenges facing the United States today, Americans who look to the Bible for timeless wisdom are finding it. Evidence suggests that when people of faith consistently interact with the Bible, it comes to inform their choices – even their political and social choices – and transform the way they relate to others.

The State of the Bible research team asked Bible Users to indicate how Scripture influences their views on several issues being discussed in American society today, like welcoming immigrants to their community, befriending people of other races and religions, and advocating for those who are oppressed by society. Once more, the research revealed the Bible is a key source of wisdom for those who seek its guidance on the social issues of our day.

As we release this research, we invite you to pray. Pray for Christians to turn to the Bible to guide their social and political choices. Pray that pastors and church leaders will empower their congregations to seek wisdom from the Bible when faced with challenging choices.

Let’s Pray Together

Father, thank you for your Word that provides wisdom for all situations. We pray that the Bible will shape the way Americans think, feel, and act on key social and political issues. We pray that Bible will inspire us to love, unity, and activism as we engage with its truths.

To get Chapter 7, Scripture Engagement, Social Justice and Political Identity, download your free ebook below.