As truth-seeking atheists, there are a few things you should be aware of regarding Christianity. Many atheists lump any religion together. This article focuses solely on biblical Christianity because Christians do not have a moral obligation to defend other religions.
That is to say, unless you are well-versed in the Christian message, you cannot credibly claim to have understood it. Even though there are stories that Einstein failed math in school, which isn’t true, it doesn’t mean he didn’t exist or wasn’t a brilliant scientist. You can’t let exaggerated stories take precedence over real evidence and base your decision on it.
What Matters is the Truth, not One’s Beliefs.
Truthfulness is the most important thing. You are responsible for being able to explain why you accept or reject a worldview. Moreover, the religion in question should be included in your explanation. All of these conditions must be met, no matter how you define atheism—as “a lack of belief” or something else. The reason we bring this up is that false interpretations of religion have a way of overpowering the genuine thing. Many people’s understandings of Christianity are completely at conflict with what Christians believe to be true.
I don’t mean to imply that none of the atheists have a good understanding of Christianity. In fact, I concede that there are plenty of atheists who can articulate the Christian worldview compellingly. Still, the fact that some former pastors have become atheists does not remove the validity of the biblical claims in any way any less than when an atheist becomes a Pastor. On the other hand, when pressed for an explanation of Christianity, many self-proclaimed atheists offer a naive interpretation. If I persist in harping on this point it is purely because atheists frequently use false portrayals of Christianity in their arguments.
Christians Oppose “Blind Faith.”
Atheists struggle with “blind faith,” but Christians are not called to it. Biblically, no one is told, “Believe this, just because God said so.” Other religion such as Islam may demand their followers, to believe without any reasoning to support their claims, exemplifying the appeal to authority logical fallacy.
This misunderstanding is due to a mistaken definition of faith. The Bible’s view of faith is best described as “trust” or “personal trust”. This is certainly different from “proof,” but faith is never presented as belief without evidence or against all evidence. In fact, the Bible consistently points to historical events as the basis for our faith (Numbers 14:11; John 14:11).
It is important to note that obtaining “absolute proof” is a rare occurrence in the realm of human experience. There are practically no situations in which someone can mathematically, logically, or infallibly prove something before taking action. Does this imply that we are unable to take action? No, but it implies that we consistently engage in actions based on strong justifications rather than absolute evidence. That, in essence, is the “faith” that the Bible demands. Christianity emphasises the importance of placing reasonable trust in Jesus and His message, rather than relying solely on the world or other people.
Ultimately, you hold a similar level of faith in your perspective on the world, which is atheism. So please acknowledge that regardless of your beliefs or lack thereof, it is not possible for you to assert that you have definitive evidence. Not in a completely objective or definitive manner. The inherent truth of the human condition is that our knowledge is inherently limited. We are compelled to take action based on trust and faith, relying on our justified beliefs, even in the absence of proof. Christianity does not serve as a means to evade rationality or descend into unquestioning belief. Contrary to popular belief, it is actually the complete opposite: a fact that convinces even those who are reluctant to accept it due to its compelling evidence.
Christianity is Uniquely Tied to Reason and Evidence.
The Bible stands out for its distinctive approach to reason and evidence. Jesus Christ himself relied on evidence when faced with challenges. In John 5, Jesus acknowledges the scepticism and disbelief of others towards His teachings, recognising that they are unwilling or unable to accept His words without evidence or reasoning. He presents three forms of evidence to establish trust in Him: human testimony, observations, and written records (John 5:30–47). The earliest believers consistently cited facts and evidence to substantiate their message (1 Corinthians 15:13–14; 2 Peter 1:16; Luke 1:1–4).
God doesn’t ask us to follow Him blindly (1 Thessalonians 5:21) or ignorantly (Acts 17:11) or without doubts (Jude 1:22). Rather, Christianity offers reasons to believe: evidence in nature (Psalm 19:1), in science (Genesis 1:1), in logic (Isaiah 1:18), in history (Luke 1:1–4), and in human experience (Romans 1:20–21; 1 Peter 5:1).
Modern atheists frequently point to “science” as a catch-all counter to religion. It should be noted that, without a Christian worldview, what we call “modern science” would be impossible. It wasn’t until a culture approached the universe from a Christian perspective that the modern scientific method was born. Science as we know it assumes that the universe is rule-bound, repeatable, knowable, and subject to human manipulation—all of which are uniquely theistic (particularly Judeo-Christian) concepts. Atheism, like modern science, can co-opt those tenets, but they all flow from a theistic worldview.
Also, it bears mentioning that interpretation is not always the same as fact. This is as true in religion as in science. Rejecting or disproving one particular facet of a belief system doesn’t necessarily mean the entire idea is wrong. It might only be that particular idea that is in error. Non-fundamental doctrines, such as the age of the earth, are ultimately secondary to the core message of Christianity. The so-called war between science and religion is truly a myth.
Contemporary atheists often use “science” as a comprehensive argument against religion. It is important to acknowledge that the existence of a Christian worldview is a necessary condition for the possibility of what we refer to as “modern science.” The modern scientific method originated when a culture began to view the universe through a Christian lens. Science, in its current understanding, operates under the assumption that the universe follows consistent rules, can be studied and understood, and can be influenced by human actions. These concepts, which align with theistic beliefs, particularly those of the Judeo-Christian tradition, are inherent in the framework of science. Atheism, similar to modern science, can adopt those principles, but they all originate from a theistic perspective.
Furthermore, it is important to note that interpretation is not always the same as the fact. This holds true not only in religion but also in science. Discrediting or refuting a specific aspect of a belief system does not automatically imply that the entire concept is incorrect. It is possible that only that specific idea is incorrect. Non-essential tenets, such as the chronology of the planet, are ultimately subordinate to the fundamental message of Christianity. The purported battle between science and religion is indeed a fallacy.
Christianity is Substantiated by Empirical Evidence.
Beliefs produce consequences. Atheism, similar to other worldviews, lacks a specific basis for regarding human beings as valuable, equal, or significant. The concepts of morality, democracy, and human rights also have their origins in theism, just like modern science. The beneficial influence of Christianity is evident both in historical records and contemporary events. The concepts of equality, self-governance, social welfare, and other similar ideas have their origins in the Christian heritage. Currently, cultures rooted in Christianity significantly outperform non-Christian cultures in addressing the moral concerns that most atheists consider important.
Popular culture often asserts that Christianity is a doctrine associated with mistreatment or maltreatment. Examine the assertion that “religion is a catalyst for conflict.” Secular scholars, including Charles Phillips, Gordon Martel, and Alan Axelrod, assert that religious motivations have played a role in approximately 6 to 7 percent of all recorded wars throughout human history. Removing Islam from consideration reduces that number by over 50%. Christianity’s focus on compassion and peace has been more effective in preventing and mitigating violence than in inciting it.
If you are an atheist who dismisses Christianity due to its perceived opposition to scientific principles, reliance on unquestioning belief, or history of abusive practices, I urge you to revaluate the available evidence. The accusations are grounded in inaccurate accounts and exaggerated portrayals. Comedians and celebrities may incessantly reiterate them, but that does not render them accurate.
It is crucial, for the purpose of discussion, to consider the consequences of implementing a specific philosophy in everyday life. It is inherent that individuals do not possess identical interpretations on how to effectively implement a specific idea. Furthermore, individuals frequently engage in actions that are entirely inconsistent with their professed convictions. However, it is possible to examine world history and discern which concepts appear to be effective and which ones are not.
Atheism Implies that Christianity should be taken into Consideration.
It is crucial, for the purpose of discussion, to consider the consequences of implementing a specific philosophy in everyday life. It is inherent that individuals do not possess identical interpretations on how to effectively implement a specific idea. Furthermore, individuals frequently engage in actions that are entirely inconsistent with their professed convictions. However, it is possible to examine world history and discern which concepts appear to be effective and which ones are not.
Beliefs produce consequences. Atheism, similar to other worldviews, lacks a specific basis for regarding human beings as valuable, equal, or significant. The concepts of morality, democracy, and human rights also have their origins in theism, just like modern science. The beneficial influence of Christianity is evident both in historical records and contemporary events. The concepts of equality, self-governance, social welfare, and other similar ideas have their origins in the Christian heritage. Currently, cultures rooted in Christianity significantly outperform non-Christian cultures in addressing the moral concerns that most atheists consider important.
Popular culture often asserts that Christianity is a doctrine associated with mistreatment or maltreatment. Examine the assertion that “religion is a catalyst for conflict.” Secular scholars, including Charles Phillips, Gordon Martel, and Alan Axelrod, assert that religious motivations have played a role in approximately 6 to 7 percent of all recorded wars throughout human history. Removing Islam from consideration reduces that number by over 50%. Christianity’s focus on compassion and peace has been more effective in preventing and mitigating violence than in inciting it.
If you are an atheist who dismisses Christianity due to its perceived opposition to scientific principles, reliance on unquestioning belief, or history of abusive practices, I urge you to revaluate the available evidence. The accusations are grounded in inaccurate accounts and exaggerated portrayals. Comedians and celebrities may incessantly reiterate them, but that does not render them accurate.
If the concrete results of a belief system hold significance within a culture, then they also hold significance within an individual’s personal life. Atheists from various backgrounds throughout history have consistently highlighted a major problem associated with atheistic ideology: nihilism. The acceptance of pure naturalism or the absence of any deity carries logical repercussions.
Atheists reject objective morality, meaning, purpose, and other similar concepts due to the compelling force of logic. A prominent challenge in atheistic philosophy is how to combat nihilism or effectively deal with its consequences. Atheism, more than any other worldview, has been used to justify the atrocities committed by dictators.
Paradoxically, this implies that atheism provides compelling justifications to at least consider the Christian worldview. What is the reason? If the absence of meaning, purpose, or an ultimate plan is assumed, it would be prudent to adopt a worldview that yields the most favourable outcomes: a worldview that offers intellectual contentment, personal gratification, significance, structure, and ethical principles.
Christianity is the best choice that yields the most favourable outcomes. This does not imply that Christianity is automatically true or that anyone can persuade themselves against their own volition. However, it provides a valid justification to consider the assertions of the Bible with gravity. Christianity deserves a more profound and thoughtful approach, one that goes beyond superficiality, reliance on memes, or simplistic depictions. Some atheist commentators have occasionally discussed the idea of behaving “as if” there is purpose, even though they are convinced that there is none. Given the circumstances, it is justifiable to consider the Bible as a viable choice for voluntary belief.
Christianity Provides Optimism and Purpose.
Our perspective on Christianity is not influenced by any form of “wishful thinking,” as you have observed. I strongly uphold the notion that reason, logic, and evidence are crucial components of a thriving belief system. Simultaneously, I recognise that intellect and reason cannot represent the full scope of the human experience.
Each individual possesses unique justifications for their beliefs or absence thereof. Frequently, these reasons are predominantly influenced by emotions, even though we may be reluctant to acknowledge it. The message of the risen Christ is not inherently appealing to human beings. However, once an individual gains an honest understanding of the biblical Christian worldview, the exaggerated and false representations dissipate, revealing its captivating and influential essence.
Let me to succinctly summarise the biblical message for you, the atheist:
God has an immense love for you, to the extent that it has devised a means by which you can obtain forgiveness for all transgressions, thereby enabling you to exist eternally in its presence. According to the Bible, it is stated in Romans 3:23 that every individual needs salvation, Romans 1:16 affirms that every individual has a chance to attain salvation, and 2 Peter 3:9 emphasises that God desires salvation for every person.
Sin is the factor that creates an alienation between us and God. Regardless of our perceived righteousness, we are all culpable of committing sin (1 John 1:10). In light of God’s absolute Holiness, it is justifiable for everyone to be eternally separated from Him (Romans 5:16). The guilt described in Isaiah 64:6 cannot be absolved by any level of physical effort, virtuous actions, wealth, skill, or success. Thankfully, God desires for us to remain connected with Him, and thus, He devised a solution to mend what has been broken (John 3:16–17).
The sole and exclusive means is by placing trust in Jesus Christ (John 14:6). Jesus is God incarnated as a human being, leading a flawless and untainted existence (Hebrews 4:15). He voluntarily died as an offering to settle our debts for our transgressions (2 Corinthians 5:21). As per the Scriptures, anyone has the potential to attain salvation, which involves being pardoned by God and assured a place in heaven, by placing faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 10:13). This is not a plea for unquestioning, blind faith (Acts 17:11; 1 John 4:1). The invitation from God is to submit and trust, as stated in James 4:7. Choosing to relinquish all other dependencies and placing complete trust in God is a deliberate decision.
Christianity Continues to Provide Additional Benefits and Contributions.
I acknowledge that it is impossible for any single article, answer, or conversation to comprehensively address every conceivable detail. There exist numerous legitimate questions and apprehensions pertaining to the Christian faith. I hold high regard for individuals, including atheists, who demonstrate a genuine commitment to exploring these profound truths.
Regardless of your belief in the truth of Christianity, I genuinely encourage you to further educate yourself about it. You have nothing to lose. At the most unfavourable scenario, you will gain a greater understanding. Ultimately, you will come to acknowledge, like many other doubters, that Jesus is undeniably the embodiment of truth.
