Season: 22 Episode: 321
What happens when Christians stop reading the Bible for themselves?
In this episode, I unpack the growing crisis of biblical illiteracy and explain why so many believers struggle to recognize false teaching. We look at alarming literacy statistics, discuss the rise of emotionalism in the church through the example of Kathryn Krick’s ministry, and consider why discipleship must be rooted in Scripture rather than spiritual experiences.
I also answer a listener’s question about the Scofield Study Bible, explain how to choose a Bible translation based on reading level, and share practical steps for becoming a more faithful student of God’s Word.
If you want to grow in discernment, recognize false teaching, and become biblically literate, this episode is for you.
In This Episode
- Why literacy matters for understanding Scripture
- The shocking state of biblical literacy in America
- Why reading Christian books should never replace reading the Bible
- How to spot emotionalism masquerading as discipleship
- A biblical response to Kathryn Krick’s ministry
- Is “slain in the Spirit” found in Scripture?
- Choosing the best Bible translation for your reading level
- Should Christians use the Scofield Study Bible?
- What healthy discipleship looks like
- How to become a better student of God’s Word
Bible Translation Reading Levels
- NASB — Grade 11
- ESV — Grade 10
- NIV — Grades 7–8
- CSB — Grade 7
- NKJV — Grade 7
- NLT — Grade 6
Shanda also explains why she recommends choosing a translation you can comfortably understand and read consistently rather than feeling pressured to read a more difficult translation.
Resources Mentioned
Books & Authors
- J.P. Moreland
- Cotton Mather
- George Marsden
- Cyrus I. Scofield
- John MacArthur
- Betty Friedan
- Kate Millett
- Dr. Frank Turek
Organizations & Studies
- American Bible Society – State of the Bible 2026
- National Literacy Trust
- National University
- Pew Research
- Lifeway Research
- Christianbook.com reading level guide
Scripture References
- Jeremiah 29
- 1 Corinthians 14
- Daniel 8
- Daniel 10
- John 1
- Matthew 28:19–20
Mentioned in This Episode
- Kathryn Krick
- Scofield Study Bible
- Bible translations (NASB, ESV, NIV, CSB, NKJV, NLT)
- OCC “How to Interpret Your Bible” class
- Shanda’s upcoming Bible Interpretation Workshop
Connect
Want to learn how to study the Bible with confidence?
Join the waitlist for my upcoming How to Interpret Your Bible class at shandafulbright.com/bibleclass. We’ll learn practical principles for studying Scripture so you can become biblically literate and disciple others faithfully.
Connect with Shanda
For speaking events, Bible study workshops, and additional resources, visit shandafulbright.com.
If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend and leave a review. Your support helps more women learn to think biblically and live faithfully in today’s culture.
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