According to a survey conducted by the American Bible Society, people who watch church services online are more likely to read their Bible during the week than those who actually attend the services live, the Christian Post reports.

The survey found that 74% of those who watch services online stated that they read their Bible at least once a week, compared to only 32% of people who attended live services.

The report explained the surprising difference by suggesting that attending a live service can be viewed as much a social event as a religious one.

Meanwhile, with the social aspect not in play, listening to an online service reflects primarily a desire to connect with God’s Word. This often translates into a greater tendency for the individual to read and study the Bible on their own.

“In-person church attendance can be more social and cultural, often with an experiential flavor,” the report stated. “Online attendance can be more about hearing about God and from God, often by oneself or
with one’s immediate family. It’s personal, as Bible reading often is.”

READ: Americans who attend church online read the Bible more than those who attend in person: study