NEW YORK /Christian News/ — In response to the report released today by The Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, American Bible Society President Lamar Vest issued the following statement:

“Today’s research report from The Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life exposes a deficit in religious knowledge among a majority of Americans. Particularly disturbing was the lack of knowledge among self-professed Christians about the Christian faith. Jewish adherents actually had a better awareness of the Bible and Christianity than did Christians.

The Bible – the most-translated and best-selling book of all time – has informed centuries of literature, government, philosophy and social behavior. Beyond the hope and encouragement it offers, a basic knowledge of the Bible is essential for understanding and appreciating much of Western culture. American Bible Society is working to increase access to the Bible here at home and around the world so that all can experience its life-changing message.”

Headquartered in Manhattan, the 194-year-old American Bible Society exists to make the Bible available to every person in a language and format each can understand and afford. One of the nation’s oldest nonprofit organizations, today’s American Bible Society provides interactive, high- and low-tech resources enabling first-time readers and seasoned theologians alike to engage with the best-selling book of all time.