Am I a "Christian Atheist?"

Seem like a contradiction in terms? To define what a Christian atheist might be, it might be someone who actually believes in God, who may even attend church, is in harmony with Christian values and morals but, one who actually lives as if there was no God. They make their decisions, do what they want to do, spend their money and live their lives with very little difference from someone who is not a Christian at all. They may identify themselves as a Christian, but the evidence to support that identity would be lacking.

This can be more subtle than we think. But always the bottom line is, does my belief in God actually impact the way I think, the way I steward my money, my behavior and my choices? Do the things I participate in and enjoy reflect Christ? Does my conversation include Jesus? Is Jesus a part of my family life? These are deep questions we ought to take more than a moment to examine within our own lives.

What is a the core of this dualism is the idea that we can fashion our "religion" into whatever we are comfortable with. The very popular thought that the universe revolves around me also includes the idea that our relationship with God should fit in where we like it and not bother the places we don't want to change. The Christian atheist doesn't like to be challenged to change on the inside. They will make concessions for God, but then fair is fair, God should make concessions for us.

The truth is, faith doesn't work that way. Faith in God is not for convenience or for our fancy but is intended to transform us from what we are to what God intends for us to be. That is more than just being a good person or a good neighbor or just content with the status quo. Real faith in God demands that we crucify our flesh daily and live a life wholly to God.

I have been examining my thoughts and life to uncover the hidden places I act as if God did not exist. It's a tough process. What I am finding out and having to face are the areas I really don't want to change. I want to say it is good enough but know better. I hope that you might have the courage to face the truth and make the necessary changes to live as if God really does exist and that He cares about our lives.