Introduction: A Timeless Call to Scripture

In January 2026, as global uncertainties mount, a remarkable trend is unfolding: young adults are returning to the Bible in record numbers. With the increasing interest in initiatives like William Bradford Bible study for young adults, there is a growing engagement among the younger generation. According to the American Bible Society’s State of the Bible 2025 report (with trends continuing into 2026), Bible use among millennials surged 29% from 2024, while Gen Z shows significant increases in weekly reading—up to 49% in some metrics. Weekly Bible engagement hit 42% overall, the highest in over a decade, driven by Gen Z and millennials seeking purpose amid chaos.

This resurgence echoes the vision of William Bradford, Plymouth Colony’s long-time governor and a key figure in America’s founding. Bradford’s commitment to the Bible—especially its Hebrew roots—laid the groundwork for a nation built on biblical principles. As historian David Barton of WallBuilders emphasizes, America’s “godly foundation” draws heavily from Scripture, including the Hebrew Bible, which influenced the Puritans and early colonists. This is why William Bradford Bible study for young adults was so impactful, enabling them to find both spiritual and historical guidance.

Who Was William Bradford? Pioneer of Biblical Governance

William Bradford (1590–1657) arrived on the Mayflower in 1620 as a Separatist Pilgrim fleeing persecution. Serving as governor for over 30 years, he authored Of Plymouth Plantation, a foundational American text chronicling the colony’s struggles and faith-driven triumphs. William Bradford Bible study young adults also draws inspiration from his writings, offering frameworks for modern spiritual engagement.

Bradford viewed the Bible as the ultimate guide for society. In his later years, he studied Hebrew to access the Old Testament’s original language, believing translations could obscure divine truth. He wrote in his Bible: “Though I am grown aged, yet I have had a longing desire to see with my own eyes something of that most ancient language and holy tongue.” This pursuit reflected a broader Puritan ideal: modeling their “new Israel” after the biblical Hebrews, with covenants, laws, and community life drawn from the Torah.

The Pilgrims saw their journey as a modern Exodus, and early colonial codes—like Plymouth’s laws—mirrored Mosaic principles from Deuteronomy and Exodus.

America’s Foundations: Rooted in the Hebrew Bible and Jewish Principles

America’s founding was profoundly shaped by the Hebrew Bible, a fact often overlooked but well-documented in historical sources. The Puritans, including Bradford’s generation, identified deeply with ancient Israel, viewing themselves as a “chosen people” building a covenant society. Thus, for many, William Bradford Bible study young adults offers a transformative exploration into these foundational ties.

Key examples include:

• Early legal codes in New Haven (1655) and Massachusetts drew half their statutes from the Hebrew Bible.
• Concepts like religious tolerance, communal justice, and limited government echoed Torah teachings (e.g., Exodus 23 on due process, Deuteronomy 25 on fair punishment).
• The “city on a hill” metaphor (from John Winthrop) stems from Matthew but reflects Isaiah’s vision of Israel as a light to nations.

David Barton, founder of WallBuilders—a nonprofit preserving America’s biblical heritage—highlights these connections in works like Original Intent and resources on the Bible’s influence. WallBuilders asserts that the Founders quoted Deuteronomy more than any other book in revolutionary-era writings (1760–1805). Barton notes how Hebrew Scriptures provided models for republicanism, property rights, and moral governance—principles that made America unique.

This “Judeo-Christian” foundation—rooted in the Hebrew Bible—set the stage for inalienable rights from God (Genesis 1:27), not government, and religious freedom as a natural right.

Why Young Adults Need Bible Study Now: A Return to Roots

In 2026, young adults face anxiety, division, and a search for meaning. Bible engagement offers resilience: Barna and American Bible Society data show Gen Z and millennials driving the surge, with men closing the gender gap and weekly reading climbing dramatically.

Studying the Bible—especially its Hebrew roots—provides timeless wisdom:

• Ethical living (Leviticus 19 on justice).
• Community support (Deuteronomy 15 on care for the vulnerable).
• Personal integrity (Proverbs).

Bradford understood that superficial reading misses depth; original languages reveal purer truths. Today, apps, online Hebrew courses, and study groups make this accessible. With the growing interest in William Bradford Bible study young adults, these resources are more relevant than ever.

Neglecting these roots risks cultural drift, as Barton warns. Reclaiming Bible study reconnects young adults to America’s heritage—a republic inspired by biblical Israel.

Conclusion: Follow Bradford’s Example—Start Today

William Bradford’s life proves Bible study builds enduring societies. In 2026, with Bible sales and engagement booming, young adults have a historic opportunity to rediscover this foundation.

Explore WallBuilders.com for resources from David Barton, including videos on America’s biblical heritage. Read Deuteronomy, join a study group, or learn basic Hebrew online. America’s future depends on reclaiming its scriptural roots—one verse at a time.

Internal Links Suggestions:

• Link to related posts on Puritans, Hebrew Bible in America, or Bible study tips.
• External: wallbuilders.com, americanbible.org/StateoftheBible.