For many Christians in the United States, reading the Bible is seen as an afterthought.
As part of a study of the role of faith in everyday life, Pew Research asked self-identified American Christians what parts of being a Christian are essential.
Belief in God and a sense of gratitude topped the list, while living a healthy lifestyle, resting on the Sabbath, or buying from companies that pay fair wages were at the bottom.
Only 42 percent said reading the Bible or other religious material is essential.
