Perceptions ofJesus, Christians & Evangelism
Research Findings by Barna Group
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 1
Research Study Overview
What do UK adults know and believe about Jesus Christ?
What do they really think of his followers?
How often—if ever—do Christians talk about their faith in
Jesus?
And how do both Christians and non-Christians feel about
those conversations?
Answering the Big Questions
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 2
Data Collection Methodology
Research Study Overview
A bespoke online survey among a nationally representative sample of 3,014 UK adults, plus
an over sampling of 1,621 UK practising Christians.
Including 2,545 English adults and 1,592 English practising Christians
The data were collected between the 12th and 29th July 2015 by ComRes.
The national data were weighted to be representative of all UK adults aged 18+ by age,
gender, region and socio-economic grade.
The sample error on the national data is plus or minus 1.8 percent points at the 95%
confidence level.
The over sample data were weighted to be representative of all UK practising Christians by
age, gender and denomination per the Church Census 2005.
The sample error on the over sample data is plus or minus 2.4 percent points at the 95%
confidence level.
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 3
Research Study Overview
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 4
Throughout this report slides presenting data on
English adults will be shown with a dark grey background .
Slides presenting data on UK adults will be shown with a
white background.
14%17% 17% 17%
14%
21%
18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+
Research Study Overview
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Defining the UK Audience – Age Groups
5
15%18% 17% 17%
14%
20%
18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+
Research Study Overview
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Defining the English Audience – Age Groups
6
Research Study Overview
42%
58%
non-ChristiansChristians
Defining the UK Audience
Self-identified Christians say
“Christian” best describes their religious
faith (58%).
Non-Christians chose any response
other than “Christian” to best describe
their religious faith (42%).
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 7
Research Study Overview
43%
57%
non-ChristiansChristians
Defining the English Audience
Self-identified Christians say
“Christian” best describes their religious
faith (57%).
Non-Christians chose any response
other than “Christian” to best describe
their religious faith (43%).
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 8
Research Study Overview
42%
10%
48%
non-ChristiansChristians
Defining the UK Audience
practising Christians identify as
“Christian” but also report praying,
reading the Bible and attending a
church service at least monthly
(10%).
Practising Christian is not specific
to any denomination.
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
practising Christians
non-practising Christians
9
Research Study Overview
43%
9%
48%
non-ChristiansChristians
Defining the English Audience
practising Christians identify as
“Christian” but also report praying,
reading the Bible and attending a
church service at least monthly
(9%).
Practising Christian is not specific
to any denomination.
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
practising Christians
non-practising Christians
10
8%12%
15% 17%
21%
28%
18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+
Research Study Overview
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Defining UK Practising Christians – Age Groups
11
14%17% 17% 17%
14%
21%
2% 2% 2% 2%1%
3%
18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+
Research Study Overview
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Defining UK Practising Christians – Age Groups
12
Total Population v. Practising Christians as a percent of the total population
*practising Christian per cents add to greater than 10% due to rounding.
9%12%
14%16%
21%
28%
18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+
Research Study Overview
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Defining English Practising Christians – Age Groups
13
15%18% 17% 17%
14%
20%
2% 2%1% 1% 1%
2%
18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+
Research Study Overview
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Defining English Practising Christians – Age Groups
14
Total Population v. Practising Christians as a percent of the total population
*practising Christian per cents add to greater than 9% due to rounding.
8%5%
3%
Scotland Wales Northern Ireland
Research Study Overview
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Defining the UK audience – The Nations
15
6%4%
2%
Scotland Wales Northern Ireland
Research Study Overview
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Defining UK Practising Christians – The Nations
16
Research Study Overview
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Profile of UK Adults
17
Religious Identity
Christian 58%
Atheist 12
Agnostic 9
Muslim 3
Hindu 2
Jewish 1
Buddhist 1
Sikh *
Other 3
None of the above 11
Level of Education
all UK
adults
UK
practising
Christians
Secondary school, high school,
NVQ levels 1 to 3, etc.50% 18%
University degree or equivalent professional
qualification, NVQ level 4, etc.45 81
Still in full-time education 3 1
Don’t know 1 1
Prefer not to say 1 *
* Indicates less than one-half of one percent.
Research Study Overview
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Profile of UK Adults
18
Industry / Career Sector
all UK
adults
UK
practising
Christians
Retired/not employed 32% 19%
Retail 8 3
Education 7 21
Health 7 10
Professional, scientific & technical 5 7
Production 5 2
Construction 5 3
Transport & storage (inc. post) 4 1
* Indicates less than one-half of one percent.
all UK
adults
UK
practising
Christians
Arts, entertainment, recreation 4% 5%
Information & communication 4 6
Accommodation/food service 3 1
Finance & insurance 3 2
Business admin & support 3 4
Public admin & defence 3 4
Agriculture, forestry, fishing 1 1
Motor trades 1 *
Wholesale 1 1
Property 1 *
Research Study Overview
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Profile of English Adults
19
Religious Identity
Christian 57%
Atheist 12
Agnostic 9
Muslim 3
Hindu 2
Jewish 2
Buddhist 1
Sikh *
Other 3
None of the above 11
Level of Education
all
English
adults
English
practising
Christians
Secondary school, high school,
NVQ levels 1 to 3, etc.51% 17%
University degree or equivalent professional
qualification, NVQ level 4, etc.44 81
Still in full-time education 3 1
Don’t know 1 1
Prefer not to say 1 *
* Indicates less than one-half of one percent.
Research Study Overview
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Profile of UK Adults
20
Industry / Career Sector
all
English
adults
English
practising
Christians
Retired/not employed 32% 18%
Retail 8 3
Education 7 19
Health 7 10
Professional, scientific & technical 5 7
Production 5 2
Construction 5 3
Transport & storage (inc. post) 4 1
* Indicates less than one-half of one percent.
all
English
adults
English
practising
Christians
Arts, entertainment, recreation 4% 5%
Information & communication 4 7
Accommodation/food service 2 1
Finance & insurance 3 1
Business admin & support 3 4
Public admin & defence 3 4
Agriculture, forestry, fishing 1 1
Motor trades 1 *
Wholesale 1 *
Property 1 1
Beliefs about Jesus
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 21
2 in 5 English adults believe the Bible is God’s Word.
39%
15%
28%
8%
The Bible is the actual or inspired word of God
The Bible is not inspired by God, but tells how people at thetime understood the ways and principles of God
The Bible is not inspired by God and is simply another bookof teachings written by peole that contains stories and
advice
don't know
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 22
Based on earlier study of 1,000 English adults
Six in 10 UK adults believe that Jesus was a real person.
61%
22%
17%
57%
26%
17%
63%
20%
17%
Jesus was a real person who actually lived.
Jesus is a mythical or fictional character.
don't know
all UK adults 18-34 year olds 35+ years
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 23
More than two out of every five UK adults who are not practising Christians (43%) either do not believe Jesus was a
real person who actually lived or they are unsure if he was real or not.
Six in 10 English adults believe that Jesus was a real person.
60%
22%
18%
57%
25%
18%
62%
20%
18%
Jesus was a real person who actually lived.
Jesus is a mythical or fictional character.
don't know
all English adults 18-34 year olds 35+ years
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 24
Six in 10 UK adults believe that Jesus was a real person.
61%
22%
17%
59%
23%
18%
79%
10%
12%
Jesus was a real person who actually lived.
Jesus is a mythical or fictional character.
don't know
all UK adults white ethnic minority
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 25
4 out of 5 Asian and Black UK adults believe Jesus was a real person.
Six in 10 English adults believe that Jesus was a real person.
60%
22%
18%
58%
23%
19%
79%
10%
12%
Jesus was a real person who actually lived.
Jesus is a mythical or fictional character.
don't know
all English adults white ethnic minority
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 26
4 out of 5 Asian and Black UK adults believe Jesus was a real person.
Approximately 1 in 5 UK adults believe Jesus was God in human form who lived in the first century.
22%17%
29%
18% 20%
27%24%
15%
30%
God in human form who livedamong people in the 1st Century
A normal human being,not God
A prophet or spiritual leader,not God
all UK adults 18-34 year olds 35+ years
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 27
Approximately 1 in 5 English adults believe Jesus was God in human form who lived among people in the first century.
21%17%
30%
17%20%
28%
23%
15%
30%
God in human form who livedamong people in the 1st Century
A normal human being,not God
A prophet or spiritual leader,not God
all English adults 18-34 year olds 35+ years
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 28
A quarter of non-white adults and more than half UK black adults believe Jesus was God in human form who lived in the first century
22%
17%
29%
21%
17%
28%25%
14%
43%
God in human form who livedamong people in the 1st Century
A normal human being,not God
A prophet or spiritual leader,not God
all UK adults white ethnic minority
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Asian UK adults are more likely to say Jesus was just a spiritual leader or prophet (50%).
Black UK adults are more likely to believe in Jesus’ divinity, God in human form (53%).
29
English adults are more likely to believe Jesus was a prophet or spiritual leader than God in human form.
21%
17%
30%
21%
17%
28%25%
15%
44%
God in human form who livedamong people in the 1st Century
A normal human being,not God
A prophet or spiritual leader,not God
all English adults white ethnic minority
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Asian English adults are more likely to say Jesus was just a spiritual leader or prophet (51%).
Black English adults are more likely to believe in Jesus’ divinity, God in human form (52%).
30
44%* of all UK adults believe in the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
17%
26%
14%4%
22%
17%
I believe the resurrection of Jesus from the
dead happened word-for-word as described
in the Bible
I believe in the resurrection of Jesus from
the dead, but the story in the Bible contains
some content which should not be taken
literally
I do not believe in the resurrection of Jesus
from the dead
Not sure if the resurrection is true or not
Believe Jesus is fictional
Not sure if Jesus is real or fictional
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 31
*Based on rounded per cents, 17.4% + 26.2% = 43.6%
43% of all English adults believe in the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
17%
26%
13%4%
22%
18%
I believe the resurrection of Jesus from the
dead happened word-for-word as described
in the Bible
I believe in the resurrection of Jesus from
the dead, but the story in the Bible contains
some content which should not be taken
literally
I do not believe in the resurrection of Jesus
from the dead
Not sure if the resurrection is true or not
Believe Jesus is fictional
Not sure if Jesus is real or fictional
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 32
The vast majority of black UK adults believe Jesus was a real person and that he was raised from the dead.
52%
22%
6%
3%
6%
12%
% among Black UK adults
I believe the resurrection of Jesus from the dead happened word-for-word as described in the Bible
I believe in the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, but the story in the Bible contains some content which should not be taken literally
I do not believe in the resurrection of Jesus from the dead
Not sure if the resurrection is true or not
Believe Jesus is fictional
Not sure if Jesus is real or fictional
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 33
52%
20%
7%
3%
6%
12%
% among Black English adults
I believe the resurrection of Jesus from the dead happened word-for-word as described in the Bible
I believe in the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, but the story in the Bible contains some content which should not be taken literally
I do not believe in the resurrection of Jesus from the dead
Not sure if the resurrection is true or not
Believe Jesus is fictional
Not sure if Jesus is real or fictional
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 34
The vast majority of black English adults believe Jesus was a real person and that he was raised from the dead.
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 35
Words that come to mind among all UK adults when Jesus Christ is mentioned.
GodSaviour
Religion
Son Of God
ChurchFaith
Christianity
BibleLoveCross
Christmas
Christian
Holy
LordPeace
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 36
Words that come to mind among all English adults when Jesus Christ is mentioned.
Among non-Christian UK adults, words that come to mind when Jesus Christ is mentioned.
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 37
ChristianityGod Religion
BibleChurchChristian
Christmas
Cross
Son Of God
Faith
Holy
Saviour
Peace
Lord Love
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 38
Among non-Christian English adults, words that come to mind when Jesus Christ is mentioned.
Among UK practising Christians, words that come to mind when Jesus Christ is mentioned.
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 39
SaviourGod
Love
LordSon Of God
Faith Holy CrossSalvation
Good
Peace
BibleSonChristmas
Crucifixion
Forgiveness
Prophet
Christian
Church
Religion
Among English practising Christians, words that come to mind when Jesus Christ is mentioned.
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 40
All UK adults 18-34 year oldsPractising
Christians
Non-Practising
Christian
Spiritual, 49% Spiritual, 41% Loving, 93% Loving, 59%
Loving, 48% Loving, 41% Wise, 88% Spiritual, 58%
Peaceful, 47% Leader, 40% Inspirational, 88% Peaceful, 55%
Words chosen by UK adults to describe Jesus
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
* respondents could choose multiple options.
41
All English adults 18-34 year oldsPractising
Christians
Non-Practising
Christian
Spiritual, 48% Spiritual, 42% Loving, 93% Loving, 58%
Loving, 47% Loving, 42% Wise, 88% Spiritual, 57%
Peaceful, 46% Leader, 41% Inspirational, 88% Peaceful, 54%
Words chosen by English adults to describe Jesus
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
* respondents could choose multiple options.
42
Non-Christians’ Perceptions of Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 43
Most UK non-Christians say they know a Christian.
know a Christian
67%
do not know a
Christian26%
don't know7% 35%
38%
15%
7%
4%
1%
family
friend
acquaintance
workmate
neighbour
church leader
Relationship with Christian% among non-Christians who know a Christian
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 44
Most English non-Christians say they know a Christian.
know a Christian
67%
do not know a
Christian27%
don't know6% 34%
40%
15%
7%
4%
1%
family
friend
acquaintance
workmate
neighbour
church leader
Relationship with Christian% among non-Christians who know a Christian
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 45
UK non-Christians attribute more positive than negative qualities to the Christians they know.
64%
52%46%
39%
26% 24%
65%
52%47%
38%31%
26%
64%
51%45%
40%
22% 22%
Friendly Caring Good-humoured
Generous Encouraging Hopeful
% among UK non-Christians who know a Christian
all UK adults 18-34 year olds 35+ years
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
* respondents could choose multiple options.
POSITIVE QUALITIES
46
UK non-Christians attribute more positive than negative qualities to the Christians they know.
13% 10% 7% 7% 6% 5% 5% 4%
14% 11%9% 8% 6% 6% 5% 5%
12% 9%6% 6% 6% 4% 5% 4%
Narrowminded
Hypocritical Uptight Homophobic Foolish Selfish Unhappy Invasive
% among UK non-Christians who know a Christian
all UK adults 18-34 year olds 35+ years
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
* respondents could choose multiple options.
NEGATIVE QUALITIES
47
English non-Christians attribute more positive than negative qualities to the Christians they know.
65%
51%46%
38%
26% 24%
66%
52%48%
38%31%
26%
63%
50%45%
38%
22% 22%
Friendly Caring Good-humoured
Generous Encouraging Hopeful
% among English non-Christians who know a Christian
all English adults 18-34 year olds 35+ years
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
* respondents could choose multiple options.
POSITIVE QUALITIES
48
English non-Christians attribute more positive than negative qualities to the Christians they know.
13% 10% 8% 7% 6% 5% 4% 4%
15%10%
9% 7% 6% 6% 5% 5%12% 10%
6% 6% 6% 5% 4% 4%
Narrowminded
Hypocritical Uptight Homophobic Foolish Selfish Unhappy Invasive
% among English non-Christians who know a Christian
all English adults 18-34 year olds 35+ years
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
* respondents could choose multiple options.
NEGATIVE QUALITIES
49
Who are the 33% who do not know a practising Christian?
These individuals are more likely than average to be…
Under the age of 35 (39%)
Ages 35-44 (24%)
Asian or Asian British (9%)
Pakistani (3%)
Indian (3%)
Living in England (87%)
East of England (12%)
London (14%)
These individuals are less likely than average to be…
Ages 55+ (19%)
Black or Black British (0%)
Living in Northern Ireland (1%)
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 50
39%
24%
9%
87%
Under Age 35 Ages 35-44 Asian or AsianBritish
Living in England
Non-Christians’ Experience with Evangelism
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 51
More than half UK non-Christians who know a Christian (57%) have had a conversation with them about Jesus—or 38% of all UK non-Christians
Conversations tend to be between family and friends.
40% 40%
12% 4% 1% 2%
family friend acquain-tance
workmate/ collegue
neighbour churchleader
Non-Christians Describe their Relationship with the Practising Christian Who Shared with Them about
their Faith in Jesus% know a practising Christian and talked about Jesus with this person
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
16%
43%
41%
% among UK non-Christians who had a conversation with a Christian about their faith
Felt sad that I did not share their faith
Felt glad that I did not share their faith
don't know
52
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
16%
42%
42%
% among English non-Christians who had a conversation with a Christian about their faith
Felt sad that I did not share their faith
Felt glad that I did not share their faith
don't know
53
More than half English non-Christians who know a Christian (57%) have had a conversation with them about Jesus—or 39% of all English non-Christians.Conversations tend to be between family and friends.
39% 41%
13% 4% 1% 1%
family friend acquain-tance
workmate/ collegue
neighbour churchleader
Non-Christians Describe their Relationship with the Practising Christian Who Shared with Them about
their Faith in Jesus% know a practising Christian and talked about Jesus with this person
When Christians talk about their faith in Jesus 1 in 5 of UK non-Christians they talk to are open to an experience or encounter with Jesus. But 60% don’t want to know more..
Positive Experiences Negative Experiences
Wanted to know more about Jesus Christ, 18% 60%, Did not want to know more about Jesus Christ
Open to an experience or encounter with Jesus, 20% 49%, Not open to an experience or encounter with Jesus
Felt sad that I did not share their faith, 16% 43%, Felt glad that I did not share their faith
Felt more positive towards Jesus Christ, 22% 30%, Felt more negative towards Jesus Christ
Felt closer to the person in question, 27% 29%, Felt less close to the person in question
Felt comfortable, 51% 33%, Felt uncomfortable
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 54
18-34 year old non-Christians respond more positively than older adults to conversations about Jesus.
Positive Experiences Negative Experiences
Wanted to know more about Jesus Christ, 22% 52%, Did not want to know more about Jesus Christ
Open to an experience or encounter with Jesus, 23% 47%, Not open to an experience or encounter with Jesus
Felt sad that I did not share their faith, 18% 39%, Felt glad that I did not share their faith
Felt more positive towards Jesus Christ, 29% 25%, Felt more negative towards Jesus Christ
Felt closer to the person in question, 31% 30%, Felt less close to the person in question
Felt comfortable, 49% 35%, Felt uncomfortable
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 55
When Christians talk about their faith in Jesus 1 in 5 of English non-Christians they talk to are open to an experience or encounter with Jesus. But 59% don’t want to know more.
Positive Experiences Negative Experiences
Wanted to know more about Jesus Christ, 19% 59%, Did not want to know more about Jesus Christ
Open to an experience or encounter with Jesus, 20% 49%, Not open to an experience or encounter with Jesus
Felt sad that I did not share their faith, 16% 42%, Felt glad that I did not share their faith
Felt more positive towards Jesus Christ, 23% 30%, Felt more negative towards Jesus Christ
Felt closer to the person in question, 26% 29%, Felt less close to the person in question
Felt comfortable, 53% 32%, Felt uncomfortable
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 56
Nearly third of 18-34 year old non-Christians feel more positive about Jesus after speaking to a Christian about faith in Jesus.
Positive Experiences Negative Experiences
Wanted to know more about Jesus Christ, 23% 52%, Did not want to know more about Jesus Christ
Open to an experience or encounter with Jesus, 22% 46%, Not open to an experience or encounter with Jesus
Felt sad that I did not share their faith, 19% 37%, Felt glad that I did not share their faith
Felt more positive towards Jesus Christ, 31% 25%, Felt more negative towards Jesus Christ
Felt closer to the person in question, 31% 28%, Felt less close to the person in question
Felt comfortable, 51% 33%, Felt uncomfortable
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 57
Christians’ Experience of Evangelism
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 58
UK Practising Christians feel a responsibility to evangelise and believe talking to non-Christians about Jesus is part of this responsibility.
46%
39%
10%
3% 3%
Have a responsibility to talk to non-Christians about Jesus.
% among UK practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
37%
37%
16%
4%
6%
Talking to non-Christians about Jesus Christ is evangelism.% among UK practising Christians
strongly agree
tend to agree
tend to disagree
strongly disagree
don’t know
Ethnic minority UK adults are more likely to believe they have a responsibility to evangelise (91%, strongly + tend to agree)
59
English Practising Christians feel a responsibility to evangelise and believe talking to non-Christians about Jesus is part of this responsibility.
45%
40%
10%
3% 3%
Have a responsibility to evangelise.% among English practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
41%
35%
13%
4%7%
Talking to non-Christians about Jesus Christ is evangelism.
% among English practising Christians
strongly agree
tend to agree
tend to disagree
strongly disagree
don’t know
Ethnic minority English adults are more likely to believe they have a responsibility to evangelise (92%, strongly + tend to agree)
60
UK Non-practising Christians do not think evangelism is their responsibility.
4%
15%
31%32%
18%
Have a responsibility to evangelise.% among UK non-practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
5%
20%
24%16%
36%
Talking to non-Christians about Jesus Christ is evangelism.
% among UK non-practising Christians
strongly agree
tend to agree
tend to disagree
strongly disagree
don’t know
61
English Non-practising Christians do not think evangelism is their responsibility.
4%
15%
31%32%
18%
Have a responsibility to evangelise.% among English non-practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
5%
20%
24%
15%
37%
Talking to non-Christians about Jesus Christ is evangelism.
% among English non-practising Christians
strongly agree
tend to agree
tend to disagree
strongly disagree
don’t know
62
UK Practising Christians look for opportunities to talk about Jesus Christ and feel comfortable doing so.
15%
37%
36%
8%
3%
Always looking for opportunities to talk about Jesus with others.
% among practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
3%
23%
43%
28%
3%
Feel unable to take up opportunities to talk about Jesus.
% among practising Christians
27%
45%
23%
4% 2%
Comfortable talking to non-Christians about Jesus.% among practising Christians
strongly agree tend to agree tend to disagree strongly disagree don’t know
63
English Practising Christians look for opportunities to talk about Jesus Christ and feel comfortable doing so.
15%
38%
37%
8%
3%
Always looking for opportunities to talk about Jesus with others.
% among English practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
3%
23%
44%
28%
2%
Feel unable to take up opportunities to talk about Jesus.
% among English practising Christians
26%
46%
23%
4% 1%
Comfortable talking to non-Christians about Jesus.
% among English practising Christians
strongly agree tend to agree tend to disagree strongly disagree don’t know
64
UK Non-practising Christians seldom seek out opportunities and lack the confidence to talk about their faith even when the opportunity presents itself.
2%
7%
27%
50%
14%
Always looking for opportunities to talk about Jesus with others.% among non-practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
strongly agree tend to agree tend to disagree strongly disagree don’t know
9%
26%
25%
14%
27%
Feel unable to take up opportunities to talk about Jesus.
% among non-practising Christians
7%
34%
25%
15%
19%
Comfortable talking to non-Christians about Jesus.
% among non-practising Christians
65
English Non-practising Christians seldom seek out opportunities and lack the confidence to talk about their faith even when the opportunity presents itself.
2%
6%
27%
50%
15%
Always looking for opportunities to talk about Jesus with others.% among non-practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
strongly agree tend to agree tend to disagree strongly disagree don’t know
10%
25%
24%
14%
27%
Feel unable to take up opportunities to talk about Jesus.
% among non-practising Christians
7%
33%
25%
15%
20%
Comfortable talking to non-Christians about Jesus.
% among non-practising Christians
66
The majority of UK practising Christians feel confident talking to non-Christians about Jesus.
4%
28%
39%
27%
3%
Afraid of causing offence when talking to non-Christians.% among practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
strongly agree tend to agree tend to disagree strongly disagree don’t know
3%
20%
37%
37%
2%
Do not know how to talk to non-Christians about Jesus.% among practising Christians
6%
29%
33%
26%
6%
Think others are better suited to talk to non-Christians about Jesus.
% among practising Christians
67
5%
28%
39%
27%
2%
Afraid of causing offence when talking to non-Christians.% among practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
strongly agree tend to agree tend to disagree strongly disagree don’t know
4%
19%
38%
37%
2%
Do not know how to talk to non-Christians about Jesus.% among practising Christians
6%
29%
33%
27%
5%
Think others are better suited to talk to non-Christians about Jesus.
% among practising Christians
68
The majority of English practising Christians feel confident talking to non-Christians about Jesus.
Two-thirds of UK practising Christians have talked about Jesus to a non-Christian in the past month.
34%32%
15%
8% 2%9%
3% 9% 9%
30%
18%
32%
within the pastweek
within the pastmonth
within the past 6months
more than 6months ago
never don't know
practising Christians non-practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 69
33% 33%
15%
8% 2%9%3% 8% 9%
31%
18%
32%
within the pastweek
within the pastmonth
within the past 6months
more than 6months ago
never don't know
practising Christians non-practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 70
Two-thirds of English practising Christians have talked about Jesus to a non-Christian in the past month.
UK practising Christians tend to be optimistic about the impact of their evangelism efforts.
22% 20%
20%
47%1%
2%
4%
46%25%
10% 4%
UK practisingChristians
UK non-practisingChristians
very positive
fairly positive
fairly negative
very negative
no impact
don't know
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
26%
24%
15%
13%
11%
6%
friend
acquaintance
workmate
stranger
family
neighbour
Relationship with Non-Christian% among UK practising Christians who talked about
Jesus with a non-Christian
71
English practising Christians tend to be optimistic about the impact of their evangelism efforts.
23% 20%
20%
48% 1%
2%
3%
47%25%
9%4%
EnglishpractisingChristians
English non-practisingChristians
very positive
fairly positive
fairly negative
very negative
no impact
don't know
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
26%
24%
15%
12%
11%
6%
friend
acquaintance
workmate
stranger
family
neighbour
Relationship with Non-Christian% among English practising Christians who talked about
Jesus with a non-Christian
72
Non-Christians and practising Christians were asked to describe what happened after having a conversation about Jesus.
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
* respondents could choose multiple options.
The Christian asked the non-Christian…how UK practising
Christians remember it
how UK non-Christians
remember it
If he or she wanted prayer on behalf of
themselves, or for someone else27% 19%
To come to a church event 20% 15%
To come to a church service 15% 18%
If she or he was willing to talk about Jesus
Christ again sometime14% 16%
If he or she wanted to experience the love of
Jesus Christ for themselves8% 13%
If he or she wanted to attend a course about
Christianity / Jesus8% 7%
73
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
* respondents could choose multiple options.
The Christian asked the non-Christian…how English practising
Christians remember it
how English non-
Christians remember it
If he or she wanted you to pray on behalf of
themselves, or for someone else27% 19%
To come to a church event 20% 16%
To come with you to a church service 15% 18%
If she or he was willing to talk about Jesus
Christ again sometime14% 15%
If they wanted to attend a course about
Christianity / Jesus8% 8%
If they wanted to experience the love of Jesus
Christ for themselves8% 13%
74
English Christians and English non-Christians remember the conversations about Jesus similarly.
UK Non-Christians’ response to the conversation about Jesus.
20%
19%
18%
17%
10%
6%
1%
6%
Want to experience the love of Jesus Christ for themselves
Request prayer on behalf of themselves, a friend or family
They are looking into Christianity more broadly
Express an interest in going to church
Ask to have another conversation with you about Jesus
Ask how they could find out more about Jesus
They became a Christian largely as a result of our conversation
don't know
How Practising Christians Remember It% among UK practising Christians who have spoken with a non-Christian
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
* respondents could choose multiple options.
75
English Non-Christians’ response to the conversation about Jesus.
20%
19%
18%
17%
10%
6%
1%
6%
Want to experience the love of Jesus Christ for themselves
Request prayer on behalf of themselves,or a friend or familymember
They are looking into Christianity more broadly
Express an interest in going to church
Ask to have another conversation with you about Jesus
Ask how they could find out more about Jesus
They became a Christian largely as a result of our conversation
don't know
How Practising Christians Remember It% among English practising Christians who have spoken with a non-Christian
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
* respondents could choose multiple options.
76
Over the past five years UK practising Christians have been the most active in sharing their faith with friends and family.
76%70%
59%
48% 46%41%
18% 19% 6% 9%4% 4%
friend family acquaintance workmate stranger neighbour
Relationship with the non-Christian they talked to% among Christians who shared about Jesus in the past five years
UK practising Christians UK non-practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 77
Over the past five years English practising Christians have been the most active in sharing their faith with friends and family.
77%70%
59%
48% 45% 43%
17% 20% 6% 9%3% 4%
friend family acquaintance workmate stranger neighbour
Relationship with the non-Christian they talked to% among Christians who shared about Jesus in the past five years
English practising Christians English non-practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 78
18-34 year olds are somewhat more active than older Christians in the UK when it comes to talking about their faith.
28% 27%
11% 12%7% 7%
34% 35%
12%15%
5% 5%
26% 24%
11% 12%7% 8%
family friend acquaintance workmate stranger neighbour
Relationship with the non-Christian they talked to% among Christians who talked about Jesus with a non-Christian in the past five years
all UK Christians 18-34 year olds 35+ years
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 79
18-34 year olds are somewhat more active than older Christians in England when it comes to talking about their faith.
27% 25%
11% 12%7% 7%
34% 35%
13% 15%
6% 6%
25%22%
11% 12%7% 8%
family friend acquaintance workmate stranger neighbour
Relationship with the non-Christian they talked to% among Christians who talked about Jesus with a non-Christian in the past five years
all English Christians 18-34 year olds 35+ years
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 80
A Christian’s Faith Journey
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 81
Many UK practising Christians attribute their faith to growing up in a Christian home.93% of UK practising Christians have been a Christian for 11 years or more.
42%
23%18% 15%
Growing upin a Christian
family
A journeyover time
Several keydecisions
One suddendecision
Personal Faith Journey Descriptions% among practising Christians
Top Positive Influences
Growing up in a Christian family, 41%
Attending church services, 29%
Reading the Bible, 28%
Conversations with a Christian they
knew well, 27%
An experience of the love of Jesus, 23%
A spiritual experience you could not explain, 17%
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 82
All Influences that Led to Conversions amongUK Practising Christians
Growing up in a Christian family 41%
Attending a church service(s), other than a wedding or
funeral29%
Reading the Bible 28%
Conversation(s) with Christian(s) you knew well 27%
An experience of the love of Jesus Christ 23%
A spiritual experience you could not explain 17%
A particular life event, whether positive or negative 16%
Conversation(s) with Christian(s) you did not know well 9%
Christian Union or other university program 6%
An individual church’s outreach program (e.g., parent and
toddler group, food bank)5%
Visiting/praying in open churches (i.e., not during a service) 5%
Christian media (TV, radio, books, websites, etc.) 4%
Going to an introduction to Christianity course like Alpha or
Christianity Explored4%
Dreams or visions 3%
Newer forms of church such as messy church or café
church1%
A church wedding or funeral 1%
Specific Christians on social media (e.g. Twitter, Facebook,
etc.)*%
Other 8%
none of the above *%
don't know *%
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 83
* Represents less than one-half of one percent
Many English practising Christians attribute their faith to growing up in a Christian home.93% of English practising Christians have been a Christian for 11 years or more.
41%
23%18% 15%
Growing upin a Christian
family
A journeyover time
Several keydecisions
One suddendecision
Personal Faith Journey Descriptions% among practising Christians
Top Positive Influences
Growing up in a Christian family, 41%
Attending church services, 28%
Reading the Bible, 27%
Conversations with a Christian they
knew well, 27%
An experience of the love of Jesus, 24%
A spiritual experience you could not explain, 17%
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 84
All Influences that Led to Conversions among English Practising Christians
Growing up in a Christian family 41%
Attending a church service(s), other than a wedding or
funeral28%
Reading the Bible 27%
Conversation(s) with Christian(s) you knew well 27%
An experience of the love of Jesus Christ 24%
A spiritual experience you could not explain 17%
A particular life event, whether positive or negative 16%
Conversation(s) with Christian(s) you did not know well 9%
Christian Union or other university program 6%
An individual church’s outreach program (e.g., parent and
toddler group, food bank)5%
Going to an introduction to Christianity course like Alpha or
Christianity Explored5%
Christian media (TV, radio, books, websites, etc.) 4%
Visiting/praying in open churches (i.e., not during a service) 4%
Dreams or visions 3%
Newer forms of church such as messy church or café
church1%
A church wedding or funeral 1%
Specific Christians on social media (e.g. Twitter, Facebook,
etc.)*%
Other, please specify 9%
none of the above *%
don't know *%
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 85
* Represents less than one-half of one percent
A majority of non-practising Christians believe growing up in a Christian home was important to their faith journey.
72%
8%4% 2%
Growing upin a Christian
family
a journey orprocess
Several keydecisions
One suddendecision
Personal Faith Journey Descriptions% among non-practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Top Positive Influences
Growing up in a Christian family, 57%
Attending church services, 21%
Conversations with a Christian they
knew well, 7%
An experience of the love of Jesus, 4%
Reading the Bible, 9%
A church wedding or funeral , 14%
Arrows () represent changes compared to practising Christians.
86
Growing up in a Christian home becomes even more important for English non-practising Christian’s faith journey.
73%
4%8%
2%
Growing upin a Christian
family
Several keydecisions
a journey orprocess
One suddendecision
Personal Faith Journey Descriptions% among English non-practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
Top Positive Influences
Growing up in a Christian family, 56%
Attending church services, 21%
Conversations with a Christian they
knew well, 8%
An experience of the love of Jesus, 3%
Reading the Bible, 9%
A church wedding or funeral, 14%
Arrows () represent changes compared to practising Christians.
87
Most UK practising Christians credit their friends for introducing them to Jesus.
44%
17% 16% 6% 6%3%
37%
24%
17% 9% 6% 4%
friend family acquaintance workmate stranger neighbour
Relationship with the Person who Introduced them to Jesus
UK practising Christians UK non-practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 88
Most English practising Christians credit their friends for introducing them to Jesus.
44%
18% 15% 7% 7%3%
38%
22%16% 6%
10%4%
friend family acquaintance stranger workmate neighbour
Relationship with the Person who Introduced them to Jesus
English practising Christians English non-practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 89
UK practising Christians are more likely to have been brought to faith by someone younger than themselves.% among Christians who came to faith because a conversation with another Christian.
10%
40%
22%
28%
% among UK practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
More than 10 years older
More than 10 years younger
About the same age
Don’t know
90
UK non-practising Christians are more likely to have been brought to faith by someone older than themselves or someone who is about the same age.% among Christians who came to faith because a conversation with another Christian.
40%
10%
41%
9%
% among UK non-practising Christians
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism
More than 10 years older
More than 10 years younger
About the same age
Don’t know
91
English practising Christians are more likely to have been brought to faith by someone younger than themselves.% among Christians who came to faith because a conversation with another Christian.
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 92
9%
40%
23%
28%
% among English practising Christians
More than 10 years older
More than 10 years younger
About the same age
Don’t know
English non-practising Christians are more likely to have been brought to faith by someone older than themselves or someone about the same age.% among Christians who came to faith because a conversation with another Christian.
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 93
40%
10%
41%
9%
% among English non-practising Christians
More than 10 years older
More than 10 years younger
About the same age
Don’t know
UK Practising Christians recall the conversation that brought them to faith in a very positive light.
Positive Experiences Negative Experiences
Felt more positive towards Jesus Christ, 90% 1%, Felt more negative towards Jesus Christ
Wanted to know more about Jesus Christ, 85% 2%, Did not want to know more about Jesus Christ
Open to an experience or encounter with Jesus, 83% 3%, Not open to an experience or encounter with Jesus
Felt comfortable, 82% 10%, Felt uncomfortable
Felt closer to the person in question, 81% 1%, Felt less close to the person in question
Felt sad that I did not share their faith, 47% 2%, Felt glad that I did not share their faith
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 94
English Practising Christians recall the conversation that brought them to faith in a very positive light.
Positive Experiences Negative Experiences
Felt more positive towards Jesus Christ, 90% 2%, Felt more negative towards Jesus Christ
Wanted to know more about Jesus Christ, 85% 2%, Did not want to know more about Jesus Christ
Open to an experience or encounter with Jesus, 82% 3%, Not open to an experience or encounter with Jesus
Felt comfortable, 80% 11%, Felt uncomfortable
Felt closer to the person in question, 80% 2%, Felt less close to the person in question
Felt sad that I did not share their faith, 46% 2%, Felt glad that I did not share their faith
16 September 2015 Perceptions of Jesus, Christians & Evangelism 95