As we continue to explore the findings from the 2025 NRB-Barna “State of Christian Media” study, this next section focuses on the motivations behind Christian media use—and the tangible benefits it brings to users’ lives.
Perhaps most encouragingly, the reasons people engage with Christian media are deeply aligned with its intended purpose. The top motivator cited by users is encouragement, followed closely by a desire to love God with their mind and learn more about the Bible. Christian media is not merely an alternative to mainstream content—it is actively sought out for the unique emotional and spiritual support it offers.
Many users report that their engagement with Christian media strengthens their sense of purpose, deepens their love for Jesus, and enhances their contentment and relationships.
The top reasons for using Christian media are attractive, not reactive. Users are drawn to it—not just driven from something else.
That said, Christian media’s role as an alternative still matters. A substantial share of users—66% overall, and 84% of heavy users—say they turn to Christian media in part to avoid mainstream platforms. This reflects not just personal preference but a deep hunger for media rooted in truth, hope, and transcendence. In a cultural moment marked by uncertainty and ideological fragmentation, Christian content creators are stepping in to meet this need with clarity and conviction.
Among the benefits of Christian media, users cite spiritual, emotional, and relational growth as outcomes of their media engagement. Among the most widely reported benefits:
- A stronger sense of God’s purpose
- A deeper love for Jesus
- Improved mental and emotional wellbeing
- Increased understanding of the Bible
- More meaningful relationships
These patterns hold true across both casual and heavy users—but are especially strong among those most engaged.
At NRB, we believe Christian communicators have a unique call to create content that encourages, informs, and transforms. These findings affirm that calling and point to real lives being impacted. As Christian media continues to grow in reach and influence, we remain committed to supporting content creators who faithfully meet spiritual needs through broadcast, digital, and emerging platforms.
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Stay tuned for the next installment in our series, where we’ll explore the political and cultural impact of Christian media—particularly in this past election year.
In case you missed them, view past articles in this series at the links below:
Most Americans Engage with Christian Media, NRB and Barna Report
Christian Media Reaches Digitally Engaged, Spiritually Committed Younger Demographic
Most Americans Trust Christian Media, NRB and Barna Study Finds
A full version of the report will be available exclusively for NRB members to download.