Does It Make Sense for an Atheist to Claim He Used to Be a Real Christian?

Greg adds another quick thought about the last call on the previous episode, then he answers questions about atheists claiming they used to be “real Christians,” whether the word “relationship” accurately describes our connection with God, and non-Christians receiving benefits from their prayers.
 
Topics:

Commentary: One more thought on the last call from the previous episode about old-earth creationism (00:00)

What do you think about my view that it’s inconsistent with an atheist worldview for an atheist to claim he was once a real Christian? (05:00)

Is the word “relationship” an accurate word for our connection with God, or is there a more biblical way of describing it? (26:00)

What do you think of people from other religions appearing to receive benefits from their prayers? (41:00)

Mentioned on the Show: 

Reality Student Apologetics Conference – November 10–11 in Minneapolis, MN; February 23–24, 2024 in Dallas, TX; March 22–23, 2024 in Philadelphia, PA; April 19–20, 2024 in Augusta, GA

#STRask podcast with Greg and Amy

Decision Making and the Will of God episodes: Part 1 and Part 2

Hot Tub Religion by J.I. Packer

A Quest for Godliness: The Puritan Vision of the Christian Life by J.I. Packer

Knowing God by J.I. Packer

Preaching God’s Love in Acts? by Greg Koukl