by Obianuju Mbah, Christian Today
A growing number of people across Britain are unclear about basic Christian teachings, according to new research that finds religious uncertainty has increased considerably over the past eight years.
The findings, published in the 2026 State of Theology survey, point to a decline in familiarity with Christian doctrine among the general public, even as churches report signs of renewed interest in Christianity and an “influx” of newcomers attending services.
Conducted by Whitestone Insight in partnership with Ligonier Ministries UK, the study surveyed 5,177 UK adults between 23 and 27 January 2026, examining attitudes towards God, the Bible, salvation and other central Christian beliefs.
The survey also included an additional sample of 1,000 practising Christians, defined as those who go to church and read the Bible on their own at least once a month.
It follows an earlier survey in 2018, allowing researchers to identify changes in religious understanding and attitudes over time.
One of the most striking developments was the growing share of respondents who answered “don’t know” when presented with statements about foundational Christian doctrines like justification, the Trinity and the Holy Spirit.