Scientific research conducted by the Center for Bible Engagement (CBE) in 2009 shows the difference between people who read the Bible four days a week and those who don’t.
The Bible is the inspired Word of God. As 2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.”
Scientific Research
And so, the CBE challenged the statement to find out through research the effects and benefits of reading the Bible.
In the study, they found that “Christians who are engaged in Scripture most days of the week have lower odds of participating in these behaviors:
- Getting drunk = 57% lower odds
- Sex outside marriage = 68% lower odds
- Pornography = 61% lower odds
- Gambling = 75% lower odds
- Any of these habits = 57% lower odds.”
Also, they saw increased participation in sharing the Good News for Christians who are more engaged in the Scripture.
CBE reported, “Controlling for other factors, those who read or listen to the Bible at least four days a week have higher odds of participating in these behaviors:
- Sharing faith with others = 228% higher odds
- Discipling others = 231% higher odds
- Memorizing Scripture = 407% higher odds.”
Moreover, the study discovered that those who read the Bible one to three times a week have little to no difference from those who spent zero days doing so. They reported, “In other words, for adults, engaging Scripture for less than four days a week does not appear to have the same protective factor as doing so for four or more days.”
CBE’s research proves that reading the Bible is very critical in the life of a Christian. As such, believers are encouraged to prioritize time in God’s Word.
Psalm 119:105 reminds us of this truth. “Your Word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
Reference: Center For Bible Engagement (December 2009), Understanding the Bible Engagement Challenge: Scientific Evidence for the Power of 4, Available online: https://bttbfiles.com/web/docs/cbe/Scientific_Evidence_for_the_Power_of_4.pdf
