The question of whether atheists treat people better than Christians (or vice versa) is one that cannot be definitively answered by Scripture, as the Bible does not compare the moral behaviors of atheists and Christians directly. The Bible, however, does provide principles on how followers of Christ are called to live and treat others, emphasizing love, compassion, and humility as central to the Christian life.

Jesus summarized the Law and the Prophets in the commandment to love God with all one’s heart, soul, and mind, and to love one’s neighbor as oneself (Matthew 22:37-40). Furthermore, the New Testament epistles are replete with exhortations for believers to exhibit love, patience, kindness, forgiveness, and humility in their interactions with others (Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:12).

The Bible acknowledges the reality of human sinfulness and the need for transformation through faith in Christ (Romans 3:23; 2 Corinthians 5:17). It teaches that true change in behavior comes from a transformed heart, empowered by the Holy Spirit to live according to God’s will.

It’s also important to recognize that individuals, regardless of their faith or lack thereof, are capable of both moral and immoral behavior. Christians are not exempt from failure and can sometimes act in ways that are not consistent with the teachings of Christ. Similarly, atheists, operating from their own moral or ethical frameworks, can exhibit behaviors that are kind, compassionate, and altruistic.

The Bible calls Christians to a standard of love and service that reflects the character of Jesus. In John 13:34-35, Jesus tells His disciples, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” This command underscores the idea that the hallmark of Christian discipleship is love—a love that is patient, kind, not envious or boastful, not arrogant or rude, does not insist on its own way, is not irritable or resentful, does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).

Ultimately, the goal for Christians is to reflect the love and character of Christ in their interactions with all people, regardless of the other person’s beliefs, in the hope of drawing others to the love of God as revealed in Jesus Christ.