18 October 2025

‘Transform’, the magazine of the Scottish Bible Society, has a series of articles based on a three year global survey of people’s attitudes and beliefs about the Bible. It was undertaken by the United Bible Societies. 90,000 adults across 85 countries participated.

In the article about Scotland, the Bible Society highlights ‘an openness to the Bible and an increase in church attendance among young adults’. 16% of 18-24 year olds attend church at least once a month. 44% are interested in learning more about the Bible. And 24% read the Bible at least once a month.

This is an encouraging place to be. It’s all part of what is being called ‘The Quiet Revival’. It may not be evident in the churches where I am called to preach but it does indicate a cultural shift and an openness among young people to learn more. We should act on this with more confidence.

In  those nations located in the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia, 85% say that religion is an important part of daily life. 78% agree it’s hard to tell right from wrong without religion. 75% enjoy learning from other people although 50% think that people should keep their religious beliefs to themselves!

This sounds like trying to square the circle! There are three Bible Societies in the Holy Land. The Arab-Israeli Bible Society is based in Nazareth which has Israel’s largest Arab and Christian communities. Residents of Nazareth have mostly Palestinian backgrounds but are also Israeli citizens.

‘We carry the burden of both people’s pain,’ says Dina Katanacho, ’Our aim is to build a community of forgivers and peacemakers.’  A major initiative is dealing with violence in schools. They visit hundreds of secondary schools with a Bible-based anti-bullying programme centred on Jesus, Saviour and source of peace.