The survey shows 58 percent of Protestant churchgoers in the United States agree with the statement: "I am intentionally putting my spiritual gift(s) to use serving God and others." Seventeen percent disagree with the statement.

A greater percentage of respondents indicate they look for opportunities to serve others in the community. Asked to respond to the statement: "I intentionally try to serve people outside my church who have tangible needs," 60 percent agree -- although only 17 percent strongly agree. Fifteen percent disagreed with the statement.

"Serving God and Others" is one of eight attributes of discipleship that consistently show up in the lives of believers who are progressing in spiritual maturity, according to LifeWay Research.

"Service doesn't just happen in a church," said Ed Stetzer, president of LifeWay Research. "It must be modeled and encouraged. As we look at the breakdown of attributes and correlated disciplines, the data shows that praying expectantly, getting involved in the community and discipling others fosters a posture of serving. As such, disciples are serving in, through, and beyond their churches for the cause of Christ."

But just 9 percent of churchgoers strongly agree with the statement: "I intentionally give up certain purchases so I can use that money for others." Thirty percent somewhat agree and 32 percent disagree.

Approximately a quarter of respondents selected "neither agree nor disagree" as their answer for the three statements.

"Service and activism have become popular in our culture today, especially among younger adults," Stetzer said. "However, most of this benevolent activity is fairly low-level involvement that does not cost the giver much. The midrange responses on the Serving God and Others attribute reveals lots of good intentions and some occasional actions but much lower intentionality, consistency or sacrifice."