Half of Young Christians Now Read the Bible Weekly: Patmos Survey Finds Gen Z Out Discipling Their Elders

91,000 People Across 85 Countries Surveyed by Gallup Reveal Young Christians Engaging Scripture More Than Older Generations

A massive new global survey from Gallup, the Patmos Initiative, and the United Bible Societies has revealed a striking trend: young Christians aged 18 to 24 are now engaging the Bible more frequently than their elders, with 50 percent reading Scripture weekly and 81 percent saying religion is important in daily life.

The Patmos Youth Report, surveying 91,000 people across 85 countries (including roughly 28,700 young respondents aged 15 to 30), is one of the largest global Bible engagement studies ever conducted.

Young Christians Bible Engagement Outpaces Older Generations Globally

"This report shows that, in some contexts, young Christians are engaging with the Bible more frequently than older Christians," said co author Richard Powney.

The findings are nuanced. Engagement is highest in Latin America and sub Saharan Africa, where Christianity is most visibly alive. 240 million non Christians worldwide say they want to learn more about the Bible.

Around 70 percent agree Bible stories are valuable for children. Yet in religiously diverse Asia, 56 percent have never heard of the Bible, and 75 percent say they know nothing about it. Active Bible users showed stronger propensities for volunteering, charitable giving, and community service across all age groups.

The Crusader's Opinion

Every secular newspaper publishing decline narratives about young people abandoning the Bible should sit with this report for a few hours. Half of all young Christians are reading their Bible every week. The Holy Spirit has not retired. Gen Z believers are out reading their parents in many parts of the world, and 240 million curious non Christians want to know more. The mission field is staring back at us. Print Bibles. Distribute them. Disciple the youth in your church. The next great revival may be already underway, and the demographic data is the early warning sign.

Take Action

• Read: The full Patmos Youth Report from United Bible Societies
• Donate: Biblica or your local Bible Society
• Sponsor: Bible distribution in Asia where 75 percent know nothing of Scripture
• Pray: For the 240 million non Christians who want to learn more
• Share: The 50 percent weekly engagement statistic with sceptical adults