Irreligious: Rejecting or Neglecting the Divine in a Secular Age

Understanding Irreligion in a Biblical Context

The term "irreligious" encompasses a range of attitudes from active hostility toward faith to mere indifference about spiritual matters. It reflects a state of being "without God" or "ungodly," as seen in Scripture, where a generation arose that did not know the Lord (Jdg 2:10). In modern society, religion is increasingly viewed as outdated or irrelevant, as cultural movements shift away from spiritual foundations, placing trust instead in human reason, science, or societal progress to address life's deepest questions.

This growing secularism aligns with the spiritual condition described by Paul when he writes, "the god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel" (2 Cor 4:4). The result is a hardened heart, resistant to divine truth and transformation. Whether through deliberate rejection or passive neglect, irreligion separates individuals from a saving knowledge of God.

Two prominent expressions of irreligion are atheism and agnosticism. Atheism denies the existence of any deity, asserting that no god is necessary to explain the universe or human existence. Agnosticism, on the other hand, claims that the existence of God is unknown or unknowable, often resulting in practical

Ignoring God will not make Him go away

indifference to spiritual matters. Both positions fall under the broader umbrella of irreligion, as they reject or disregard the revelation of God in Christ.

The Historical Development of Irreligion

The rise of irreligion in the modern era can be traced through several key historical movements. The Enlightenment period of the 17th and 18th centuries emphasised human reason and scientific inquiry over religious authority, laying the philosophical groundwork for secular thought. This intellectual shift gradually transformed Western culture, elevating human autonomy and observed evidence as the primary sources of truth.

The 19th century witnessed the emergence of more systematic forms of irreligion and captured the growing cultural sentiment that traditional religious frameworks could no longer provide meaningful answers in a modern, industrialised world.

In the 20th and 21st centuries, irreligion has continued to evolve, taking on new forms such as secular humanism, which promotes ethical living based on human needs and experience without reference to the divine, particularly among younger generations in Western societies.

Biblical Responses to Irreligion

The Bible offers multiple responses to irreligion, ranging from compassionate outreach to firm theological correction. Paul engaged with the philosophers of Athens, acknowledging their religious curiosity while gently correcting their misunderstandings: "What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you" (Acts 17:23). Paul's approach demonstrates how to engage with those who are spiritually searching yet misdirected thoughtfully, meeting them where they are while pointing to the truth of Christ.

The Psalms also address the mindset of the irreligious, particularly in Psalm 14:1: "The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God'." This strong language reflects the biblical view that denying God's existence is not merely an intellectual position but a moral and spiritual condition. Yet even here, the psalmist does not respond with mockery but with a call to recognize God's active presence in the world and His care for His people.

The New Testament emphasizes both truth and grace in responding to unbelief. Jesus consistently showed compassion to those who struggled with faith while challenging religious hypocrisy. The apostle Peter instructs believers to "always be prepared to answer everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have" (1 Pet 3:15), but to do so "with gentleness and respect," recognizing that transformation is ultimately the work of the Holy Spirit rather than mere intellectual persuasion.

The Church's Mission in a Secular Context

In response to rising irreligion, the church faces the challenge of faithfully proclaiming the gospel while thoughtfully engaging with a sceptical culture. This requires more than simply defending traditional beliefs; it calls for a creative and compassionate

Do not compromise Scripture to make it more acceptable

mission that speaks to the deepest longings of the human heart. The church's mission is not merely to win debates but to embody the kingdom of God in ways that make the invisible visible, demonstrating that the gospel addresses not only eternal destiny but the fullness of human flourishing here and now. Effective engagement with the irreligious begins with listening—understanding the genuine questions, doubts, and concerns that underlie secular worldviews. Many who identify as irreligious are not simply anti-religious but have been hurt by religious institutions, disillusioned by hypocrisy, or searching for authentic spiritual experience. The church's witness is strengthened when it acknowledges past failures while demonstrating the transformative power of Christ through acts of love, justice, and mercy in the community.

Personal Faith in the Face of Cultural Irreligion

In a culture that increasingly marginalizes religious belief, maintaining vibrant personal faith requires intentional spiritual disciplines and a deep-rooted identity in Christ. The psalmist's declaration, "One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple" (Ps 27:4), expresses the heart posture needed to withstand the pressures of secularism. This single-minded devotion to God provides an anchor when cultural narratives contradict biblical truth.

Spiritual formation in a secular age involves cultivating practices that deepen one's relationship with God. Regular engagement with Scripture, prayer, worship, and fellowship with other believers creates a counter-cultural rhythm that sustains faith. These disciplines are not merely religious obligations but

Stay loyal to Christ, and don't follow the crowd

means of grace that open believers to God's transforming presence. As the writer of Hebrews urges, "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together... but encouraging one another" (Heb 10:23–25).

Authentic faith also involves honest wrestling with doubts and questions. In honesty, it is confessing, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" (Mk 9:24). In a sceptical culture, acknowledging doubts rather than suppressing them can lead to deeper, more resilient faith. The journey of faith is not the absence of questions but the commitment to seek God through them.

Reflection and Application:

Consider how secular values in your culture may subtly influence your thoughts, priorities, or relationship with God.
Examine your own heart—do you actively seek God, or have you grown indifferent to spiritual disciplines like prayer and Scripture?
Reflect on how you can lovingly engage those who are skeptical or hostile toward faith, sharing the hope found in Christ with grace and truth.
Ask God to renew your reverence for His holiness and deepen your dependence on Him in a world that often ignores His presence.