December 28, 2025

In previous notes we have covered social media incidents which have been a boon to Christians faith. These have likely raised the general knowledge and perception of Christian faith in the broader culture. However, these events come at a time when other things are also impacting many people. Aggressive leftism (sometimes called Critical theory of just wokeness), notable individuals claiming Christian faith, The rise of fundamentalist Muslim influence and the waning popularity of the New Atheist movement. Ayaan Hirsi Ali is significant to both of these. Ayaan was considered part of the New Atheist cabal along with Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, Christopher Hitchins, and Daniel Dennet. Granted Hirsi Ali was not so prominent as the so called “four horsemen.”  There is not sufficient time to fully discuss the lessening influence of New Atheism. 

For the purposes of this note it’s enough to consider that internal struggles over many of the hot button issues of the day caused division within the movement. Many atheists are strict materialists and as such they struggle to support the postmodern tone typical of many social movements. Political issues like immigration, LGBTQ plus agendas, law and order, and other matters have been divisive among unbelievers. 

Another of the key factors in the fall of New Atheism seems to be that while arguing against God the New Atheists offered little as an alternative. Science was raised as the solution for all man’s problems and the ultimate arbiter of truth. The problem is that science does not speak to most of the pressing issues of man. 

This weakening influence combined with the previously discussed growth of Christian apologetics in the public square has almost certainly been a positive for the general impression many have of faith. In other words its not a cool as it once was to be an Atheist. 

As with the previously mentioned points this creates a good opportunity for us to share the gospel. My prayer is that we will take every opportunity to connect with people and say even a few words that might get them thinking about who God is and what he had done.

~ Kevin Cleary