New Study Reveals Churchgoers’ Views on Biblical Teachings

A recent study by the Family Research Council and Arizona Christian University Center for Cultural Studies has found that many churchgoers in the United States feel the Bible lacks clear guidance on topics like homosexuality and transgenderism. The study, titled “Social Issues and Worldview,” indicates that just 40% of participants believe the Bible explicitly addresses transgenderism, a drop from 52% in 2023. In contrast, 23% considered the Bible to be “unclear or ambiguous” on this issue, and 24% thought it doesn’t mention transgenderism at all, while 11% were unsure.

Regarding homosexuality, 47% of respondents feel the Bible provides a “clear and conclusive” stance on its moral acceptability. On the other hand, 26% see it as “unclear or vague,” while 16% don’t mention the topic at all, and 11% express uncertainty. The research also noted that 51% of those surveyed claimed the Bible has clear teachings on abortion, down from 63% in 2023. Among the rest, 21% found it “unclear or vague,” 17% said the Bible “doesn’t address” abortion, and 11% were uncertain.

When it comes to religious freedom, over half (59%) of church attendees believe the Bible is clear about this aspect, while 20% think it is “unclear or ambiguous.” A further 11% each believed the Bible either doesn’t mention religious freedom or expressed uncertainty. Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council and a Baptist minister, commented on these findings, highlighting a significant need for Biblical education on contemporary issues.

“Many pastors and churches do not systematically teach the Word of God,” Perkins mentioned, emphasizing the importance of returning to foundational teachings. He added that some pastors might hesitate to confront controversial topics, fearing harm to congregants, which can create a vacuum filled by a broader media influence that shapes Christians’ worldviews.

Perkins noted that it’s not about churchgoers hearing “the wrong things” but rather a lack of discourse on important issues. This study, conducted during July and August 2025, involved over 1,000 adults who attend Christian services at least once a month. It aligns with previous reports indicating a decline in confidence in the Bible among regular churchgoers in the U.S., particularly concerning family, life, and moral issues.