Xmas > Christmas News

Majority Of Brits Sceptical Over Nativity Story

Tue, 23 Dec 2008

The majority of Brits do not believe in the biblical story about the birth of Jesus, a new survey has found.

A poll of 1,000 people by the British Marketing Research Bureau for St Helen’s Church in Bishopsgate, London found that some 70 per cent of British residents are sceptical about whether the nativity story is based on reliable historical evidence.

The level of doubt among the younger generation was found to be even higher, with 78 per cent of 16-24 year olds saying they were not convinced the story is true.

A quarter of those questioned who described themselves as Christian admitted they did not completely believe in all the Bible’s teachings on Jesus .

In addition, 22 per cent of those who called themselves Christian said they do not believe Jesus was both God and man - another central tenet of Christianity .

Commenting on the findings, Rev Charlie Skrine, curate of St. Helen’s Church, said: "Most of the UK believes that the accounts of Jesus's birth aren't good history. Combined with a general lack of understanding about the real meaning of Christmas, this leaves people without the hope that Jesus offers.

"This year, as a church, we wanted to raise awareness about the true meaning of Christmas - that God became a human being to make himself known to us and eventually to die on a cross to bring forgiveness of our sins."

"If this is true, then it is the best news in the world. That's why we are also highlighting that the Christmas message is based on sound historical evidence."

The latest survey contradicts the findings of the latest poll by faith-based think tank Theos, which found that one in three people in Britain believe in the virgin birth of Jesus Christ .