J*s!s – they swear by him

NO LONGER IS THE BIBLE SHAPING OUR NATION OR ENRICHING ITS LIFE

Bible poverty is truly a global phenomenon – because it exists right on our own doorstep. In a few short years we've gone from Christmas to Winterval, to trying to remove Bibles from hospital wards and banning wearing a cross in school.

Once it was the Bible that shaped our nation. But that influence is waning fast – with less and less people knowing its story, valuing its message or living by its wisdom. The Bible is no longer seen as a point of reference for everyday life.

As a result a culture of secularism is governing the way our children are taught, how we are entertained and the laws that govern our land. We are fast becoming a truly Bible poor nation. With the trend growing a pace.

Many who work in areas that influence and shape our society – the media, education, politics and the arts – see the Bible as irrelevant. And, intentionally or not, their view permeates the wider community. We must work to change the perception and use of the Bible among those who have the greatest influence.

Here, again, Bible Society is at work helping people to see the links between the Bible and everyday life. There are no quick fixes. But we are resolute our commitment to see the Bible brought back into the heart of our society.

SETTING THE TRUTH FREE IN TODAY'S MEDIA AND AMONG POLITICIANS

“In an era of 24-hour news, journalists and broadcasters are under tremendous pressure to communicate stories at an ever-increasing rate. It is all too easy for accuracy to be sacrificed on the altar of speed, especially when reporting on Christian issues”, says David Ashford, Media Development Officer.

“This is where Bible Society can help,” David adds. “Journalists and broadcasters can have a wide range of subjects to cover and, unsurprisingly, not many have a theological or biblical background. We aim to provide those in the media with one-to-one support.”

Meanwhile, Bible Society's Senior Political Researcher, Dr David Landrum, spends his time building relationships in Westminster. David says, “The lack of understanding many MPs have of the basic tenets of Christian faith is palpable. My aim is to help all involved in government to understand the biblical basis of society. And to help them see how the Bible can continue to shape life today.”