Jesus Revival: Why Skeptics Are Turning to Faith
- After a half-century of declining faith, religion is experiencing a resurgence, particularly among Gen Z.
- Research from the National Opinion Research Centre, cited by Vox, indicates that the rise of religiously unaffiliated individuals has plateaued, largely as Gen Z is "rediscovering faith." This...
- A Barna study supports these findings, revealing a meaningful increase in belief in Jesus among U.S.
Gen Z is fueling a stunning religious revival, marking a shift away from decades of secularization, with belief in Jesus surging among young adults.This rediscovery of faith is driven by a search for meaning and community, causing a surge in Bible engagement and sales, according to recent studies.Shows like ”The Chosen” are introducing Christianity to new audiences, answering a spiritual longing. The national Opinion Research Centre and Barna studies further confirm this significant religious interest. Increased concerns about mental health have also contributed to this shift. News Directory 3 can help you keep up with this and other significant stories. Discover what’s next as Gen Z continues to shape the spiritual landscape.
Gen Z Rediscovering Faith: Interest in Religion Grows
Updated June 02, 2025
After a half-century of declining faith, religion is experiencing a resurgence, particularly among Gen Z. Secularism’s growth appears to be slowing as younger generations seek meaning and community in faith.
Research from the National Opinion Research Centre, cited by Vox, indicates that the rise of religiously unaffiliated individuals has plateaued, largely as Gen Z is “rediscovering faith.” This trend may stem from a desire for connection and belonging.
A Barna study supports these findings, revealing a meaningful increase in belief in Jesus among U.S. adults. Two-thirds report a personal commitment to jesus, a 12-point jump since 2021, signaling a spiritual renewal.
Two key indicators highlight this trend: increased Bible engagement and a search for spiritual meaning. John Plake, with the American Bible Society, notes a rise in Bible use, especially among younger adults and men, driven by curiosity about the Bible and Jesus.
Correspondingly, Bible sales surged 22% last year, according to BookScan, while most other book categories remained flat. Gen Z is a major driver of this increase.
Lauren Jackson describes a “spiritual longing” among younger adults seeking something beyond their daily lives. This longing emerges after decades of rising secularization, loneliness, and anxiety.
Jackson notes that while the rise of the “nones” gained prominence, those who are less religious report lower well-being, feeling less connected and spiritually at peace.
Jonathan Haidt, in “The Anxious Generation,” attributes the mental health crisis to social media and suggests “spiritual practices” as a solution.
Many are exploring Christianity through shows like “the Chosen,” which portrays Jesus and his followers as relatable figures. One-third of its viewers are not believers but are drawn to the story.
John Plake observed on social media, “Nobody becomes a Christian because they lose the argument.It’s as they’re invited on the journey.”
What’s next
As gen Z continues to explore faith, expect to see further shifts in religious landscapes and evolving expressions of spirituality among younger generations.