State of the Bible Podcast

New research from the 2026 State of the Bible report reveals a striking contradiction: Gen Z is the least Bible-engaged adult generation in America and the most likely to turn to AI for biblical insight. But they're also the generation most resistant to seeing that same tool in the hands of their pastor. What does that tell us about authenticity, trust, and spiritual formation in the age of AI...

New research from State of the Bible 2026 reveals a surprising pattern: young parents are significantly more likely to identify as Christian than their non-parenting peers but Bible engagement remains low. In this episode, Dr. John Plake sits down with Kate Watson, publisher at Axis, to unpack what's really driving faith engagement among millennial and Gen Z parents and what pastors and church...

After a brief spike in 2025, Bible engagement has dropped back down to 2024 levels. What happened? We explore the growing Movable Middle, Gen Z's surprising reading habits, and the paradox of rising church attendance alongside falling Scripture use to help you close the discipleship gap. Join host Dr. John Plake, American Bible Society CEO Dr. Jennifer Holleran, and the State of the Bible research...

It can be hard for pastors to see the invisible spiritual health of their church. In this episode; author, coach, and Reveal study co-author Cally Parkinson explains how church assessments can act as a spiritual X-ray. If you want to move past guesswork and truly measure your church's health, this conversation will show you how. Chapters: 00:00 - The top problems hiding in your church culture...

How is our relationship with God connected to how we treat others? Dr. Heath Adamson, author of Hope Breaks Through, discusses how we change when we follow Christ's example of loving our neighbors. Don't miss these valuable insights! Subscribe for more State of the Bible Podcast episodes.#americanbiblesociety #heathadamson #bible #faith #relationships #stateofthebible #godsword

How do we build trust in a world shaped by trauma and skepticism? 🤔 Dr. Cloud reveals his 5 Essentials of Trust — understanding, motive, ability, character, and track record —and explains why these are the non-negotiables for healthy connections. #Trust #Forgiveness #Trauma #HenryCloud #Leadership #Faith #Relationships #ChurchLeadership

Join Dr. John Plake and Dr. Arthur Satterwhite as they dive into the complex world of Generation Z and the challenges young adults face in forming a strong sense of identity. In this powerful conversation, they discuss the critical roles of community, faith, and scripture in shaping who we are. They also explore how technology impacts this journey and what we can all do to better support the next...

Dr. John Plake sits down with Pastor Peter Englert to discuss the art of living out your faith. As an adult discipleship pastor, Peter is passionate about helping people apply biblical teachings to their daily lives. Tune in for a powerful discussion on faith, discipleship, and practical steps you can take to strengthen your walk with Christ.

How can church leaders cultivate deep spiritual strength and vibrant soul health in the demanding world of ministry? In this compelling conversation, Dr. John Plake of American Bible Society sits down with the renowned spiritual formation expert, Mindy Caliguire. Mindy, the visionary behind Soulcare—an organization committed to restoring soul health and fostering meaningful connection with God—bri...

Dr. John Plake, Chief Innovation Officer at American Bible Society and Editor-in-Chief of the State of the Bible Research Study, sits down with counseling expert Dr. Christine Arnzen. With over three decades in counseling and counselor education, Dr. Arnzen brings a wealth of experience to this discussion on the essential nature of self-care. Explore why personal well-being is fundamental for both...

Join Dr. John Plake, Chief Innovation Officer at American Bible Society and Editor-in-Chief of the State of the Bible Research Study, as he speaks with Dr. Kate Long, a researcher with Harvard University's Human Flourishing Program. In this insightful conversation, they delve into the Global Flourishing Study, a groundbreaking multi-year research project spanning 22 countries, exploring what l...

Join Dr. John Plake of the State of the Bible podcast as he speaks with Dr. Rhiannon McAleer from the British and Foreign Bible Society. They delve into the groundbreaking Patmos Global Study, a collaboration with Gallup, exploring Bible engagement worldwide. Discover key findings and what they reveal about faith across different cultures.#americanbiblesociety #stateofthebible #gallup #bible #bibl...

Dr. John Plake (American Bible Society) interviews Justin Brierley (author of "The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God") about the changing landscape of faith, the decline of New Atheism, and why secular thinkers are reconsidering Christianity. Join this insightful conversation exploring belief and skepticism in the modern world.#americanbiblesociety #justinbrierley #bible #bibleengageme...

🎙️ State of the Bible Podcast: New Insights on Bible Engagement! 🎙️In this episode, we interview Jennifer Holloran, President & CEO of American Bible Society, to explore the latest trends in Bible engagement. Discover how Millennials and Gen X are interacting with Scripture, and learn about the surprising rise in Bible engagement among men.🔍 Key Topics:* Millennial & Gen X Bible engagemen...