Through the Australian Community Survey held regularly by NCLS Research, we are able to track how Australians views are changing or staying the same. We asked Australians to consider who Jesus was, and select a description closest to their beliefs, from a list of options.
Around a quarter view Jesus within a Christian frame
Results from May 2024, show that a quarter of Australians (26%) select the following description of Jesus: that he was God in human form who lived among people in the 1st Century. There is little change since 2019 on these views.
Existed but 'not God'
Some 38% affirm his existence but say Jesus was not God, (22% of which see him as a prophet or spiritual leader and 16% see him as a normal human being).
Did not exist
Another 18% of Australians say Jesus did not exist and the remaining 18% do not know.
As Advent approaches and churches seek to connect with the wider community around them, we encourage churches to stay informed with our research insights. Understanding the perspectives and views of people in the community can be beneficial, particularly at times such as Christmas when many people are open to an invitation to church.
More insights from the 2024 ACS, on Australians' views of God are available in our article: Is there a God or higher power? Beliefs of Australians
Related information
About the Australian Community Survey
