Outreach FAQs: What the Bible Says About Atheism

Atheism, the belief that there is no God, is not a new concept. The Bible addresses the issue of disbelief in God throughout its pages, providing insight into its roots, consequences, and the universal knowledge of God’s existence. Understanding what the Bible says about atheism is essential for Christians seeking to engage with those who deny God and to strengthen their own faith.

The Foolishness of Denying God

The Bible is direct in its assessment of atheism. In Psalm 14:1, it states, “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.” This verse highlights that rejecting God is not merely an intellectual stance but often a moral issue, stemming from a desire to live apart from God’s authority.

Similarly, Psalm 53:1 reiterates, “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God.” The repetition of this statement in Scripture underscores the seriousness of denying God’s existence and the spiritual blindness it entails.

Atheism and the Universal Knowledge of God (What the Bible says)

One of the most profound passages addressing atheism is found in Romans chapter one. The Apostle Paul writes, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them” (Romans 1:18-19). This passage reveals that all people have an innate knowledge of God, as He has made Himself known through creation and conscience.

Paul continues, “For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse” (Romans 1:20). The natural world testifies to God’s existence, leaving humanity without excuse for disbelief. Despite this, many choose to suppress the truth in unrighteousness, leading to a hardened heart and further estrangement from God.

The Consequences of Atheism

The Bible warns of the spiritual and moral consequences of rejecting God. Romans 1:21-22 states, “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools.” Atheism often leads to prideful reliance on human wisdom, which the Bible describes as foolishness in comparison to God’s truth.

This rejection of God results in moral decay, as Paul outlines: “And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient” (Romans 1:28). Atheism is not just an intellectual position but one that affects the heart, mind, and behaviour, leading to actions contrary to God’s design.

God’s Revelation in Creation and Conscience

The Bible consistently affirms that God has revealed Himself to all people. In addition to the testimony of creation, God has placed a sense of eternity in the human heart. Ecclesiastes 3:11 states, “He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.” This innate awareness of God points to a Creator and a higher purpose for life.

Furthermore, the moral law written on the human conscience bears witness to God’s existence. Paul writes in Romans 2:15, “Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another.” Even those who deny God’s existence are confronted by their conscience, which testifies to His moral standards.

The Hope for Atheists

While the Bible strongly condemns the denial of God, it also offers hope for those who turn to Him. God’s desire is for all people to come to repentance and faith. Ezekiel 33:11 declares, “Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?”

The gospel of Jesus Christ is the answer to atheism, offering forgiveness, transformation, and reconciliation with God. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). Through faith in Christ, even those who have denied God can find salvation and a restored relationship with their Creator.

In Summary

What the Bible says about atheism is clear: it is both a denial of the truth revealed in creation and a moral rebellion against God. However, the Bible also emphasises that God has made Himself known to all people and offers hope for those who turn to Him in repentance and faith. As Christians, understanding these truths equips us to share the gospel with those who deny God, pointing them to the evidence of His existence and the saving grace found in Jesus Christ.

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