For both Christianity and atheism, with the growing verifiable data gathered from millions of 'near death experiences' (NDE) something fundamental and non-negotiable appears to be at stake. Yet only atheism need fear NDEs. The more evidence that accumulates and the more it is corroborated, the stronger the case that human consciousness survives bodily death, permanently weakening the atheistic position. For Christianity, by contrast, the more evidence that accumulates and the more it is corroborated, the stronger the case for the pillars of the faith. As this evidence becomes more robust with each decade and with each life-saving advance, it may be increasingly difficult to escape the conclusion that some NDEs do indeed reflect reality. If so, thoughtful examination of near-death experiences will deepen, not destabilise, Christian theology.