The Christian Atheist - Craig Groeschel

This book took me two sessions to read. Fairly thought-provoking.


I picked it up after reading Nancy Alcorn’s (founder of Mercy Ministries) blog about reading it. I figured if it was worth someone as busy as her reading it, I should definitely check it out.

The subtitle Craig Groeschel gives his book kind of sums up the book and defines “Christian atheist”: Believing in God but living as if He doesn’t exist.

And in reading through the pages, I came to the realization that I am more of a Christian Atheist than I would have though. Although he certainly doesn’t approach it in a “Bash you over the head; You’re a horrible person” kind of way, you still close the book surprised by what you’ve seen in yourself and committed to change.

I believe that all Christians are subject to a little atheism. The point of the book is to help you see where you still have room to grow in your faith and relationship with God.

The chapters cover the various “areas” of Christian atheism. When you Believe in God but…

          1. Don’t Really know Him
          2. Are Ashamed of Your Past
          3. Aren’t Sure He Loves You
          4. Not in Prayer
          5. Don’t Think He’s Fair
          6. Won’t Forgive
          7. Don’t Think You Can Change
          8. Still Worry All the Time
          9. Pursue Happiness at Any Cost
          10. Trust More in Money
          11. Don’t Share Your Faith
          12. Not in His Church

Each one deals with an aspect of not having full faith in God or trusting Him at His Word.

Pastor Groeschel shares stories, Scripture, and practical advice for each area to help you move closer to God and deepen your relationship with him.

I think it’s one of those books that I will revisit every now and then for a spiritual “check up.”