Why does Nietzsche matter in a Christian context? First, ignoring influential thinkers does not make their ideas go away. Nietzsche's impact on atheism, existentialism, and even certain strains of religious thought is extensive. Second, while Nietzsche was critical of Christianity, he also offered observations and critiques that can serve to refine, rather than simply dismiss, the Christian faith. By engaging deeply with Nietzsche, we have an opportunity to strengthen our understanding of our own beliefs.