Study: Children Who Read the Bible are More Likely Faithful Adults

on October 20, 2017

Most parents understand the merits of reading when it comes to their child’s mental development. Children who read books often have superior vocabulary skills, academic excellence, and logical reasoning. But is it possible a child’s reading habits are linked to enhanced moral and spiritual development? A new study reports so.

Lifeway Research conducted a study examining the characteristics of childhood that best predict an adult’s spiritual health, found children who regularly read the Bible were most likely to practice the faith into adulthood.

Protestant and non-denominational parents of 3,472 adult children ages 18 to 30 were asked about 40 characteristics that could have contributed to their child’s spiritual development. Among the predictors of an adult’s vibrant moral and spiritual life included whether or not they spent time praying, serving in church, participating in a mission trip, or listening to Christian music while growing up.

Researchers found that, overall, a child who read the Bible often while growing up was the foremost indicator of a future practicing Christian adult.

“The key takeaway from the study is a simple yet profound finding that God’s Word truly is what changes lives,” said Jana Magruder, director of LifeWay Kids and author of Nothing Less: Engaging Kids in a Lifetime of Faith, in the new report.

Lifeway Research’s findings were based on analysis of 2,000 surveys and was conducted between September 22 and October 5, 2016. The study results were released on October 17, 2017.

  1. Comment by Skipper on October 24, 2017 at 3:10 pm

    “Train children in the right way,
    and when old, they will not stray.” Proverbs 22:6

    It’s a lot to invest, but the best investment you will ever make.

  2. Comment by Yvonne on October 25, 2017 at 7:43 am

    I know it is true. I have seen it demonstrated in many lives.

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