The Silent Crisis in Our Churches: Why Adult Bible Study Matters More Than Ever

Imagine a room full of adults—not just hearing God’s Word, but wrestling with it, applying it, and walking away changed. Now imagine that room slowly empties. Not because people stop coming to church, but because they stop growing in it.

That scenario isn’t far from reality.

Research by the Barna Group and others shows a decline in biblical literacy among American Christians. For example, fewer adults can confidently explain basic doctrines, and many misunderstand the nature of Scripture itself. Among some Southern Baptists, only two-thirds affirmed the Bible’s total accuracy, and only a bit  over half believed Jesus lived a sinless life.

What’s Missing?

Churches aren’t ignoring the Bible—but in many cases, they’re not engaging it deeply. While Sunday sermons are vital, they often serve as a launching pad rather than the whole journey. Adult Bible study—done well—is where Scripture gets explored, questioned, and discussed.

For generations, Sunday School has played this role in Southern Baptist churches. But in my view, if adult Bible study is reduced to lecture or review, we lose much of its power. Effective study invites questions. It challenges assumptions. It connects the ancient Word to today’s world.

Why This Matters Now

With so many cultural voices competing for our attention, believers need grounding more than ever. Bible study is not just an academic exercise—it’s a discipleship tool. It’s where believers grow roots.

When people don’t know what they believe, they’re less likely to live it out. And less likely still to share it. Barna once found that over half of regular churchgoers couldn’t identify the Great Commission. That’s not a missions problem—it’s a discipleship problem.

The Role of Adult Leaders

Teachers and facilitators carry a heavy load. Many serve week after week, often with limited time to prepare. They care deeply about helping their class grow—but they may struggle to find materials that both challenge and engage.

A growing number of leaders are turning to discussion-based resources to help guide their groups. These tools are often built around open-ended questions, Scripture reading, and life application—all things that make class time more interactive and memorable.

Whether using denominational quarterlies, outside tools, or homegrown guides, the key is structure that supports conversation and spiritual growth—not just content delivery.

Small Shifts, Big Results

You don’t need to overhaul your entire approach to see better engagement. Often, small adjustments—like adding 2–3 thoughtful questions to your lesson—can spark real change. Over time, learners become more confident reading the Bible on their own, and more comfortable discussing it with others.

And that’s the goal: not just increased attendance, but deeper discipleship.

Looking Ahead

Churches are healthiest when their members are biblically literate, spiritually grounded, and actively involved. Adult Bible study plays a critical role in that process. It deserves thoughtful investment.

If you’re looking for discussion-based questions, thematic studies, or resources rooted in the Southern Baptist tradition, a number of tools are available online. One example is our Discussion Guide worksheets which support the Lifeway materials you’re already using by fostering open dialogue and personal reflection.   Here’s a bit more on using discussion in your class.

Regardless of which materials you choose, your role as a Bible study leader matters immensely. You’re not just teaching a class—you’re shaping lives.

Imagine what your class could become if every voice was heard, every heart was stirred, and every week pointed people more clearly to Christ.