What is "practical atheism," and how does it shape the way we live? In this episode, we dive into Stephen Charnock’s The Existence and Attributes of God, focusing on Chapter 2, Part 1, where he exposes the subtle danger of living as if God doesn’t exist—even for those who profess faith. Charnock describes practical atheism as a "leprosy of atheism" that infects all of humanity, believers and non-believers alike, by influencing how we view authority and purpose.

Charnock identifies two key aspects of practical atheism. First, “man as his own rule” explores how we resist God’s authority in our lives. This resistance manifests in neglecting spiritual disciplines, cherry-picking scripture, and, at times, outright hostility toward believers. The human desire for autonomy leads us to push back against God’s truth, seeking to make ourselves the ultimate judge of right and wrong. Second, “man as his own end” reveals how we prioritize personal happiness, wealth, relationships, or even good causes over God. By fixating on our own goals, we risk replacing God with idols and losing sight of our true purpose.

Yet, Charnock offers hope and practical remedies. Cultivating a deep reverence for God involves recognizing His sovereignty and holiness, while developing genuine love for Him inspires joyful obedience. These steps help us transition from a self-centered existence to a life of authentic faith and devotion.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation as we examine our own hearts and explore how to move from living for ourselves to living fully for God.