Faith

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ATHEISM AS A RELIGION?


While we are not inclined to think of atheism as a religion, the eminent theologian Paul Tillich observes that what functions as a religion is for all purposes a religion. By way of explanation, he suggests that religion deals with one’s ultimate concern.
Nevertheless, atheism expressly concerns what one does not believe; that is, in God’s existence. I was reminded of this some years ago when corresponding with an ardent and articulate self-proclaimed atheist. “Atheism alerts me to what you do not believe,” I observed, “but what do you believe?”
Granting that what I said was true, he revealed: “I am a humanist.” That is, one who affirms human values, as cultivated by reason. Consequently, they are not imposed from without, as with special revelation.
At this, I asked if he might reconsider, and if so, in what connection. For instance, I mentioned the option of those who advocate a theology of hope. Accordingly, they refer to God by way of the future, rather than the present; employing the affirmation will be rather than is.
Such abstract thinking did not appeal to him. Instead, he replied: “If I were to have second thoughts, it would likely be concerning Jesus.” This recalls Jesus’ observation, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father” (John 14:8). In greater detail, “The words I say to you are not just my own. Rather, it is the Father living in me, who is doing his work.”
I could readily identify with his line of reasoning, since I was as a youth what J. Edwin Orr refers to as a protheist. That is, one who thinks it more likely that God exists, but lacks assurance. This brings to mind the observation, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse” (Rom. 1:20). Although apparently more obvious to some than others.
I left for military duty the day after my eighteenth birthday, and infrequently attended chapel services. On one occasion, the chaplain became very emotional, for no apparent reason. However, upon leaving the sanctuary, it occurred to me that if there were a God he would be exceptional and might employ unusual means to achieve his purposes.
It was with this in mind that I said to myself, and to God should he be listening, that I would return the following Sunday. Then, should the chaplain again behave in so strange a manner, I would inquire into his reason for doing so. The following Sunday I was again present, and it was nearing time to dismiss the congregation, when he reverted to his previous behavior.
I met with him following the service, and he attempted to explain the gospel to me. Most of which I failed to understand. However, one thing caught my attention. Jesus was reported to have said, “whoever comes to me I will never drive away” (John 6:37). At which, I thought to myself, “If you can’t trust Jesus, who can you trust?” So in terms of the gospel refrain, “I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back.” So that my confidence in God’s existence was greatly enhanced by my commitment to follow Jesus.
The notion of atheism as a religion is further illustrated by the saying, “The more we know, the more we realize we do not know.” Consequently, everyone believes something. For instance, evolution focuses on the modification of species. As such, it can be empirically verified. However, this does not necessarily account for the origin of species.
Some concept of intelligent design may seem a more likely scenario. Although this does not require faith in a divine being, since it may be thought of in terms a naturalistic accommodation. While in any case, one may opt for alternative explanations for the origin and proliferation of life.
Atheism as a religion also appears to emerge concerning the separation of church and state. This is in terms of the non-establishment and free exercise of religion. As for the former, no faith is to receive special recognition. As for the latter, persons are permitted to express their faith in word and deed, without undue restriction.
In Christian tradition, government and church are characterized as divine mandates, and hence ultimately responsible to God. As such, they are meant to compliment one another, rather than be in competition. Neither is to overreach its domain, but support the integrity of the other.
Those who press for a radical separation between the two endanger both in the process. As in the instance when guards at a certain air force base were prohibited from wishing persons a blessed day, since this was perceived as being a religious expression. The matter was subsequently reviewed by higher authorities, who concluded that it is an acceptable practice. Which leaves us with the impression that atheism can function as a religion, if it assumes religious prerogatives.

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