The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God: Why New Atheism Grew Old and Secular Thinkers Are Considering Christianity Again

Justin Brierley argues that a growing wave of faith is emerging in contemporary society. While the Christian narrative that shaped the West has been displaced by secularism—described as the "long, withdrawing roar" of the "Sea of Faith"—Brierley contends this may not be the final chapter. Brierley's investigation began with a conversation with agnostic journalist Douglas Murray, who noted that tides return and that several of his intelligent friends had recently converted to Christianity. Brierley observed a similar pattern among secular thinkers he interviewed, including Jordan Peterson, Tom Holland, and Dave Rubin, who have found Christianity's resonance and relevance surprising and have engaged in conversations about faith. The book examines cultural trends including the meaning crisis, public intellectuals embracing faith, and why the Christian narrative may be positioned for a return. Brierley traces the decline of New Atheism and explores whether God provides coherence for science, history, culture, and the search for meaning. He raises the question of whether the church is prepared to receive this potential new wave of believers.