Most U.S. Christians Deny Core Christian Belief
A recent study by the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University reveals that a significant majority of Christians in the U.S. reject the foundational Christian doctrine of the Trinity, raising concerns about the declining influence of biblical teachings in American life. The findings are part of the American Worldview Inventory series, based on responses from 2,100 adults in January.
The research shows that only 40% of Americans believe in a God who exists and influences people’s lives. This number rises slightly among Christians, with 53% of self-identified Christians and 60% of theologically born-again Christians affirming this belief. Among those categorized as Integrated Disciples, individuals with a biblical worldview, belief in God reaches 100%. However, while 59% of respondents believe in Jesus Christ, only 29% believe in the Holy Spirit, and just 11% accept the concept of the Trinity.
Belief in the Trinity—the doctrine that God is three distinct but inseparable persons: the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit—remains relatively low. Only 16% of self-identified Christians, 24% of theologically born-again Christians, and 62% of Integrated Disciples uphold this essential Christian teaching.
George Barna, the Director of Research at the Cultural Research Center, expressed concern over the survey results, noting that they reflect Americans’ growing mistrust in the Bible and a weakening of God’s influence on their lives. He emphasized that even among groups most aligned with biblical teachings, the acceptance of the Trinity is surprisingly low for a nation where most people identify as Christian.
Barna also highlighted that many Americans are uninformed about core biblical teachings, such as the Ten Commandments, repentance, salvation, and the purpose of life. He suggested that influential public figures, like Tucker Carlson, Joe Rogan, Russell Brand, Jordan Peterson, and Bill Maher, are shaping spiritual perspectives in America, mixing secular and sometimes unbiblical ideas into their commentary.
Barna concluded by questioning whether the Church and cultural leaders are truly committed to promoting a solid theological foundation and biblical literacy, warning that distractions and cultural distortions are replacing essential Christian teachings in American society.