Christian leaders have always decried secularism and atheism. But the truth is atheists and agnostics have represented a small fringe of the nation’s population. In some ways this “no-faith” group is still rather small—only about 1 out of 10 adults, or roughly 20 million adults. Yet our most recent research shows they’re becoming a group to be reckoned with.

First, many atheists and agnostics maintain significant negative opinions about Christianity. Most believe that “radical Christianity” is as dangerous to America as is radical Islam. Setting aside the accuracy of their perceptions for the moment, their mistrust of Christians makes it increasingly difficult to convey the message of Jesus.

A second reason it’s important to pay attention to atheists and agnostics is that they’re playing an even greater role among emerging generations. Among those in their 40s or older, just 8 percent are self-identified atheists or agnostics. Among those in their 20s or 30s, twice as many admit to embracing a secular mind-set (14 percent). Among those 18 to 22, one out of every five (19 percent) is an atheist or agnostic. This may still represent a minority of individuals, but the growing popularity of this perspective makes it a more prominent feature of the ministry landscape.

Keep in mind as well that each generation has changed surprisingly little over the past decade and a half. That is, each new generation entered adulthood with a certain degree of secular fervor that appears to stay relatively constant within that generation over time. This contradicts the popular notion that such generational differences are simply a function of people becoming more faith-oriented as they age.

What Should Be Our Response As Christian Leaders?
First, realize that many of those who embrace the atheistic or agnostic label do so, ironically enough, without staunchly rejecting the existence of God. In other words, most of those who align with the no-faith viewpoint harbor doubts about their doubts, which reaffirms the commitment to never give up on anyone’s soul. It also confirms that the label people use to describe their spirituality may only be skin deep. (Of course, such superficial labeling is also true for millions of Americans who identify themselves as Christians but who are Christian in name only.) Second, this also means being wary of stereotypes. It’s surprising to learn that three-quarters of no-faith adults claim to be “clear about the meaning and purpose” of their lives. Two-thirds say they’re “at peace” in their lives. And a surprising one-quarter embrace the phrase “deeply spiritual.”

Finally, realize that one of the significant reasons people may be hostile to faith is their previous negative experience with churches or Christians. As a minority viewpoint in America, atheists and agnostics often experience shameful treatment, and Christians often castigate them for their views. In your ministry, and in preparing other churchgoers to deal with rising secularism, do you address the needs and doubts of no-faith adults? How well are you navigating their deep needs and hurts? Atheists and agnostics have taken the punches. They are ready for your love.

DAVID KINNAMAN is president of The Barna Group. Check out the Web site www.barna.org for more about the company’s research and to learn about his forthcoming book unChristian: What a New Generation Really Thinks of Christianity…and Why It Matters (Baker Books).