How the Bible Influences Society

Pew Research polled over 6,300 American adults for the survey. Survey respondents who answered that the Bible should have some or more influence on U.S. law were also asked, “When the Bible and the will of the people conflict, which should have more influence on U.S. laws?” A little more than a quarter of the respondents (28%) identified that the Bible should take precedence 1.

“A recent survey conducted by Pew Research found that almost half of Americans believe that U.S. laws should be influenced by the Bible. This percentage is much higher among Christians than atheists and Republicans favor biblical influence over Democrats.”

 The Met Gala's 2018 theme was "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination," which was a clear reference to religion and the Bible. The Bible has had a significant influence on American music, with many songs using biblical imagery. Here are five examples:

1.  "40" by U2 - inspired by Psalm 40.
2. "Where You Lead" by Carole King - inspired by the relationship between Ruth and Naomi from the Book of Ruth.
3. "The Prophet's Song" by Queen - references to the story of Noah in the Book of Genesis.
4. "Coat of Many Colors" by Dolly Parton - influenced by the story of Joseph from Genesis.
5. "Judas" by Lady Gaga - a metaphor about the darkness in a person's life, relating to the story of Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus.

The Bible has also influenced literature, art, architecture, and journalism. Although you can listen to Lady Gaga's music without understanding the Bible, knowing the story of Judas gives you a much greater understanding of that song¹.

The First Amendment clearly separates church and state, but that doesn't stop Christians from running for office and working in government. It's human nature to want your own spiritual beliefs to dictate the law. It may be difficult to prevent the Bible from influencing laws and regulations, and understanding biblical themes may help you understand why people want certain laws and why others are opposed. The Bible may not have the influence that it once had, but it is still part of American culture. Having biblical literacy can give you a greater awareness².

Source: Conversation with Bing, 10/27/2023

1. The Bible's Influence in American Music - Washington Times. https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2014/dec/12/bibles-influence-american-music/.
2. The Influence of Music | Reformed Bible Studies & Devotionals at .... https://www.ligonier.org/learn/devotionals/influence-music/.
3. The Influence of the Bible in American Culture. https://bibleresources.org/bible-influence-america/.