Threatened by Christ: A Reflection on Rejection, Fear, and Eternal Truth

Threatened by Christ: A Reflection on Rejection, Fear, and Eternal Truth

An Introduction

Close your eyes. Take three deep, slow breaths. Its highly suggested.

Let's begin..

Certain discussions, especially about God are often diffucult. 

Even moreso, discussions about Christ, particularly when addressing the deeper implications of His life, death, and resurrection, often provoke strong reactions—especially among the more militant of atheists. For many, the mere suggestion of Christ’s authority and truth triggers ridicule, dismissal, or outright hostility. But why is this so. Should this not merely be a dispassionate, academic discussion?

The response, however, often is. And perhaps reveals more than simple disagreement; it may even reflect an underlying discomfort with what Christ represents: a challenge to autonomy? A call to accountability? The possibility of eternal significance? Yet, again. Why not a calm, reflective response. Many of you, if you have even gotten this far, might even be ready to punch a hole in the wall. Or worse. ;)

Though each each person's belief is individual and nuanced, the atheist response to such discussions may often, yet not always, fall into certain patterns. Namely, accusations of irrationality, appeals to scientific materialism, or ad hominem attacks on believers.  Yet, beneath this outward opposition may often lie a deeper tension, an unspoken fear: What if it’s true? This essay explores why Christ’s message and the lives of His followers may evoke such strong reactions, highlighting the parallels between historical and modern resistance, the motivations behind such opposition, and the hope that Christ continues to offer.

To those who reject Him, this essay is both a reflection and an invitation: a reflection on the fear and pride that fuel resistance to Christ, and an invitation to confront the truth, not as an enemy, but as the greatest hope humanity has ever known. To believers, it is a call to live boldly in the light of Christ’s resurrection, offering compassion and clarity in the face of skepticism and hostility.

Throughout history, humanity has been confronted by the truth of Christ—His life, death, and resurrection—and the challenge it poses to personal autonomy, belief systems, and human pride. The crucifixion of Christ was not merely an act of physical violence but a reaction to the profound threat He represented to the religious, political, and personal constructs of His time. This threat has not diminished; it continues today, particularly among those who reject God and faith altogether.

Atheists, agnostics, and skeptics often view Christ and His followers with suspicion or disdain. Why? Because His existence, His teachings, and the transformative power He offers challenge their worldview. They are not indifferent to Christ; they are threatened by Him. This essay explores the parallels between historical and modern rejection of Christ, the fear that underlies this resistance, and the hope that remains available to all.

The Threat of Truth

Christ’s claim to be "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6) is not a neutral statement. It demands a response. Truth, by its very nature, is divisive; it reveals what is false, challenges what is comfortable, and calls for change. For many, this revelation feels like a direct assault on their identity and autonomy.

1. Truth Reveals Our Condition: Christ’s message reveals humanity’s brokenness and sinfulness. His teachings expose the darkness within us, calling for repentance and transformation. To acknowledge Christ is to admit our insufficiency and dependence on something greater—a reality many find deeply unsettling.

“This is the judgment, that the Light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the Light; for their deeds were evil.” (John 3:19)

2. Authority Challenges Autonomy: Christ’s authority, as both God and Savior, calls for submission. In a world that values independence and self-determination, this is a deeply countercultural demand. To accept Christ means surrendering control, acknowledging His lordship, and aligning one’s life with His teachings. For many, this challenge to autonomy is perceived as a threat to their freedom.

3. Hope Creates Fear: The possibility that Christ is real, that His resurrection happened, and that He offers eternal life creates tension for those who deny Him. If true, this changes everything about human purpose, morality, and destiny. This fear of being wrong—of having lived a life contrary to ultimate truth—often drives the most vocal opposition to Christ and His followers.

The Paradox of Opposition

The crucifixion of Christ was an attempt to silence Him, to erase the threat He posed to the religious leaders and political authorities of His time. Yet their efforts were in vain. The resurrection of Christ not only defied their opposition but also solidified His claims, transforming His followers and spreading His message across the world.

Modern rejection of Christ often mirrors this historical opposition. Atheists and skeptics may not physically crucify Christ, but they often ridicule, dismiss, or attack Him and His followers. This hostility reflects the same underlying fear and pride:

Fear of Truth: Opposition to Christ is often rooted in the discomfort His truth brings. The possibility that He is who He claimed to be—that He is alive, that He offers salvation, and that He holds authority over all creation—is unsettling to those who reject Him.

Pride in Autonomy: Just as the Pharisees and Roman authorities resisted Christ to protect their power and influence, many today resist Him to maintain their perceived independence. The idea of surrendering to Christ challenges the modern idol of self-reliance.

Despite this resistance, Christ’s truth endures. Just as He rose from the grave, His message continues to shine, challenging and inviting all who hear it.

The Fear That It May Be True

At the heart of much resistance to Christ lies this unsettling possibility: What if it’s true? What if God exists, Christ is risen, and eternity hangs in the balance? This question, often unspoken, fuels the anger, ridicule, and mockery directed at Christ and His followers. It is not indifference but a deep discomfort with the implications of belief.

1. A Call to Accountability: If Christ is real, then humanity is accountable to Him. This accountability extends to every aspect of life—how we treat others, how we use our time and resources, and ultimately how we respond to His offer of salvation.

2. The Weight of Eternity: The possibility of eternal consequences makes the rejection of Christ far more significant than a mere intellectual disagreement. For those who fear being wrong, this weight can be overwhelming.

3. The Invitation to Change: Christ’s message is not merely about condemnation but about transformation. His invitation to "come and follow" (Matthew 16:24) offers hope, healing, and purpose. Yet for many, this invitation feels like a threat to their current way of life—a life they are reluctant to leave behind.

Hope Beyond Fear

Despite the resistance and fear that Christ’s truth evokes, His message remains one of love, grace, and hope. His resurrection is the ultimate declaration that death and sin do not have the final word. For those who believe in Him, this truth brings freedom, purpose, and life:

“If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36)

“In Him, we live, and move, and have our being.” (Acts 17:28)

For those who feel threatened by Christ, His invitation remains open. He does not force belief; He offers it freely, allowing each person to choose. The same Christ who prayed for forgiveness for those who crucified Him (Luke 23:34) continues to extend grace to those who reject Him today.

The Unshakable Truth of Christ

The rejection of Christ, both historically and today, stems from the same source: fear of truth and resistance to authority. Yet this opposition does not diminish His reality or the transformative power of His message. Christ lives, and in Him, His followers also live—a reality that continues to threaten and challenge those who deny Him.

To the skeptic, the invitation is simple: face the fear, confront the truth, and discover the life He offers. To the believer, the call is to live boldly in the light of His resurrection, bearing witness to a world that often resists but ultimately longs for the hope He brings.

“He lives, and so do we.” This truth, far from being a threat, is the greatest hope humanity has ever known. Let us proclaim it with confidence, compassion, and unwavering faith.

Thus ends the essay. It may have no relevance at this point to your life. Perhaps later. Perhaps never. Yet the intent was to provide a space for thought. To bolster your own? To conteplate an alternative perspective. Or to add to the collection of evidence that many have requested.

Veritas! Strength and Honor

God bless and God speec

William W. Collins

January, 2025