For Spiritual Growth That Lasts, You Need More Than Good Intentions
Millions feel spiritually stuck in today’s fast-paced, secular culture. The Center for Scripture Absorption leverages biblical wisdom and social scientific research to help create habits that lead to lasting transformation.
Dr. Arnie Cole
CEO, Back to the Bible
Chief Research Officer, Spiritual Fitness Center
Pam Caudill, Ph.D.
Research Design Consultant
Spiritual Fitness Center
Mark Graham
Chief Technology & Analytics Officer
Yulia Case
Chief Digital Officer
FAQ
1. What is spiritual fitness?
Spiritual fitness is the ongoing process of being formed into the likeness of Christ through Scripture, obedience, prayer, and the work of the Holy Spirit. It describes a life that increasingly aligns with God’s will—in thoughts, attitudes, relationships, and daily choices. While spiritual fitness is ultimately a theological reality rooted in sanctification, research from the Center for Scripture Absorption helps us observe the habits and patterns that support this growth, such as consistent Bible intake and applying Scripture in daily life.
2. What is Scripture Absorbtion
Scripture absorption is a deeper form of Bible intake that moves beyond the mere reading of Scripture to a pattern of receiving, reflecting on, responding to, and revealing God’s Word in everyday life. It integrates both understanding and obedience so that Scripture transforms a person’s heart, habits, and relationships. Research shows that when believers absorb Scripture consistently, their spiritual growth accelerates, their resilience increases, and their faith becomes a guiding force in real-world decisions.
3. What is the SALT Index?
The SALT Index is a research-based framework that measures spiritual growth across key dimensions such as Scripture engagement, obedience, Christlike character, and relational impact. Developed from decades of global Bible engagement research, it provides pastors and ministry leaders with a clear, data-informed picture of how their people are growing spiritually. While the Christian life cannot be reduced to numbers, the SALT Index offers actionable insight that helps churches strengthen discipleship, identify needs, and celebrate measurable transformation.
4. What does BTTB research reveal about Scripture intake today?
A deliberate, structured approach to engaging with the Bible in a way that leads to profound personal life transformation. This process includes reading Scripture, reflecting on it attentively, responding appropriately, and finally, revealing what we’ve learned to others. It's not just about reading the Bible but allowing its teachings to penetrate deeply into one's life, shaping thoughts, behaviors, and actions.
5. How does Back to the Bible conduct its research?
Back to the Bible’s research is conducted through the Center for Scripture Absorption, which uses large-scale surveys, behavioral studies, and validated spiritual growth indicators developed over more than two decades. Our work combines rigorous social-science methodology with a commitment to biblical theology, ensuring that findings are both empirically sound and theologically grounded. This approach allows pastors and ministry leaders to rely on trusted insights that support effective discipleship within the local church.
Evidence Speaks Louder Than Words
400,000
People surveyed globally over 20 years
1,000,000+
Christians and seekers have experienced spiritual growth through our programs.
"Power of 4"
Research reveals that those who engage Scripture 4+ times per week are 228% more likely to share their faith.
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Pivot Driven Devotions
Bible Selections to Move You Closer to Jesus
By Arnie Cole & W. Terry Whalin