Bible Education Program Attracts Majority of Non-Religious Participants, Survey Shows

A recent survey conducted by Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony revealed that 57% of soon-to-be graduates from Class 116 of the Zion Christian Mission Center previously identified as having no religion. The survey, conducted from October 17-25 among 1,285 students who completed a year-long course to master the entire Bible and the Book of Revelation, demonstrates the program's appeal beyond traditional religious circles.

Survey participants reported profound personal transformations through the Bible teachings. When asked what had changed most through taking the course, 99% provided positive responses, with the highest percentage (50.7%) citing increased inner peace, stability, and emotional comfort. Nearly half of the graduates (46.7%) reported experiencing spiritual growth and a deepening of faith. One participant in their 20s commented, "I had previously tried to learn about God and the Bible through various church teachings in the Christian world, but I didn't see much intellectual growth. However, through the Mission Center, I came to truly understand the Bible."

The survey results highlight the program's impact on personal development and worldview. Additional changes reported by graduates included developing a positive value system (41.2%), gaining forgiveness, love, and a spirit of tolerance (38.3%), improved interpersonal relationships (25.8%), better stress management and problem-solving ability (20.4%), and a new perspective on social life and work (16.5%). Participants noted that the experience went beyond religious instruction, with one respondent stating, "At first, I thought it was just a simple Bible lecture, but it became an opportunity to reflect on my life and relationships," while another mentioned it "helped me establish standards for life beyond religion."

The high satisfaction rates with the instructors and program reached 94.5%, including 73.3% who reported being very satisfied. The 116th Zion Christian Mission Center graduation ceremony for 59,192 theology students was held on November 2nd at the Cheongju Church in South Korea under the theme "Love, Blessings, and the Light That Shines Upon the World." Through this ceremony, Shincheonji Church announced its plan to be a positive influence for both individuals and society, centering on the core values of qualitative maturity and the restoration of the essence of the Word. The substantial participation of previously non-religious individuals in the Bible course suggests the program's relevance extends to broader personal and social development beyond traditional religious contexts.