Michael Ray Lewis DeBunked Files interview cover for Universe Designed

Michael Ray Lewis DeBunked Files Interview

Michael Ray Lewis DeBunked Files Interview Discusses Universe Designed

Michael Ray Lewis recently joined The DeBunked Files to talk about his journey from atheism to Christianity, the making of Universe Designed, and why apologetics can help people ask deeper questions about God, science, evidence, and the gospel.

In the interview, Michael shares the story behind the film and explains how his own search for truth eventually led him to Jesus. For viewers who are skeptical, curious, or simply interested in the relationship between faith and science, the conversation offers a personal look at why Universe Designed was created.

From Atheism to Faith

Michael explains that he did not grow up in church. Although his family may have believed in God in a general sense, faith was not something they talked about often. As he got older, he began to adopt atheism, influenced by documentaries and arguments that made Christianity seem unreasonable.

That started to change after his wife told him she felt Jesus calling her back. Michael was not excited about the idea at first. He had serious objections to Christianity and expected those objections to show that the faith was not true.

Instead, his questions led him into a deeper investigation.

A video from astrophysicist Dr. Hugh Ross on Genesis and creation caught his attention. From there, Michael began reading apologetics books, including The Reason for God by Timothy Keller. As he continued studying, he discovered that many of the arguments he had against Christianity had thoughtful answers.

After years of asking questions and working through objections, Michael reached a turning point. He realized the issue was no longer that Christianity lacked evidence. The deeper issue was that he did not want it to be true.

That realization eventually led him to surrender his life to Jesus.

Why Michael Made Universe Designed

During the interview, Michael also talks about how Universe Designed came to life. As a filmmaker, he had spent years working in video production. After becoming a Christian, he began asking how he could use his skills in a new way.

The idea for the documentary came from his wife, who suggested that he make a film about the evidence that helped convince him Christianity was true.

Michael began reaching out to authors, apologists, scientists, and Christian thinkers whose work had shaped his own journey. Many agreed to participate. The finished film includes voices such as Dr. Hugh Ross, Dr. Frank Turek, Alisa Childers, Stephen Meyer, Fuz Rana, Sean McDowell, Greg Koukl, and others.

The project eventually produced more than 36 hours of interview footage, which Michael condensed into a feature-length documentary.

A Documentary That Goes Beyond Design

One of the strongest parts of the conversation is Michael’s explanation of why Universe Designed does not stop at a general argument for God.

The film explores questions about the origin of the universe, fine-tuning, design, life, consciousness, and meaning. Michael says the design of the universe was especially persuasive to him because of how many conditions must be in place for life to exist.

However, his goal was not simply to argue that some kind of mind exists behind the universe. He wanted the film to move all the way to Jesus.

In the interview, Michael explains that Christianity uniquely explains reality. He also says he wanted Universe Designed to be clear about who Jesus is, what He claimed, and why the gospel matters.

Why Apologetics Matters

Michael also shares why apologetics became so important to him. When he first began asking hard questions, many believers around him did not know how to answer them. Over time, he discovered that there were strong Christian resources available, but many people in the church did not know they existed.

That realization shaped his mission.

For Michael, apologetics is not about winning arguments. It is about helping people take truth seriously. It is also about equipping Christians to have honest conversations with skeptics, friends, family members, and anyone asking life’s biggest questions.

In the interview, he describes a simple way he begins conversations: he asks people if they believe in God, and then he asks why. That approach opens the door for deeper discussion without forcing the conversation too quickly.

Watch the Full Interview

The Michael Ray Lewis DeBunked Files interview is a great introduction to the story behind Universe Designed. It gives viewers a closer look at Michael’s journey, the role apologetics played in his conversion, and why he created a film that points from evidence for design to the truth of Christianity.

Watch the full interview on The DeBunked Files to hear Michael’s story in his own words.

Watch the full interview on YouTube

Then watch Universe Designed to explore the evidence for God, the design of the universe, and the truth of the gospel.

Watch Universe Designed


Katy Christian Magazine logo featured with article reviewing the documentary Universe Designed and its exploration of science and Christian faith.

Universe Designed Review in Katy Christian Magazine

Universe Designed Featured in Katy Christian Magazine

A Thoughtful Review of Science and Faith

Katy Christian Magazine recently published a compelling review of the documentary Universe Designed, highlighting its unique approach to the intersection of science and the biblical worldview. The review, titled “Universe Designed (2025) Review: Can Science Point to a Biblical Worldview?”, praises the film for its calm tone, methodical pacing, and depth of thought.

Not Your Typical Faith-Based Film

The reviewer expected another fast-paced documentary filled with bold claims, but Universe Designed offered something different. Instead of pushing a narrative, the film invites viewers to slow down and ask deep questions. Why does the universe exist? How does it work so precisely? These timeless questions are presented in a way that respects both the viewer’s curiosity and intelligence.

Clarity Without Compromise

One of the film’s standout qualities is its willingness to treat science seriously. It avoids dumbing down complex topics and doesn’t rush toward conclusions. Instead, it builds arguments carefully—covering subjects like the fine-tuning of the universe, the origin of life, and the limits of chance-based explanations. The review notes that the film avoids defensiveness, opting for clarity and exploration instead.

Personal and Honest Storytelling

The article also highlights the personal nature of the film. The director, Michael Ray Lewis, once identified as an aggressive atheist. His questions were real, and the film reflects that. Doubt is not portrayed as weakness. Instead, it becomes the doorway to discovery. The story feels honest, making the film easier to trust for skeptics and believers alike.

Faith Grounded in Evidence

The review appreciates that Universe Designed does not stop at general theism. It moves intentionally into Christian truth claims—especially the resurrection of Jesus. The film makes it clear that Christianity is not based on emotion alone but also on strong evidence. This message makes the film a valuable tool for believers and seekers who want a thoughtful, evidence-based approach to faith.

Final Thoughts

Katy Christian Magazine’s review concludes with a strong recommendation. If you care about science and faith, this documentary will leave you thinking deeply. It’s not flashy or fast—it’s reflective and honest. The film encourages viewers to bring their full minds to the questions of life, faith, and meaning.

You can read the full review at Katy Christian Magazine.

Watch the Film

Universe Designed is now available for streaming. Visit the official streaming page at universedesigned.com/watch-universe-designed.


The Numbers Don’t Lie: The Fine Tuning That Destroyed His Atheism featuring Michael Ray Lewis discussing scientific evidence and fine tuning in the universe

The Numbers Don’t Lie: The Fine Tuning That Destroyed His Atheism

The Numbers Don’t Lie: The Fine Tuning That Destroyed His Atheism

Michael Ray Lewis joins Come Reason Ministries to discuss the powerful scientific evidence that challenged his worldview and ultimately led him from atheism to Christianity. In this compelling interview, Michael shares how the fine tuning of the universe became one of the biggest turning points in his journey toward faith.

As a former militant atheist, Michael had dismissed religious claims for years—until he encountered the overwhelming scientific precision behind the universe’s constants. During the interview, he explains how the laws of physics, cosmological constants, and biological complexity pointed him toward a Creator.

Why Fine Tuning Matters

The idea of fine tuning refers to how the fundamental forces and constants of nature are precisely set to allow life to exist. If any of these values were even slightly different, life would be impossible. This realization shook Michael’s naturalistic beliefs and opened the door to serious exploration of Christianity.

The conversation also dives into the making of Universe Designed, a Christian documentary Michael directed to explore the very evidence that changed his life. With appearances from top apologists, the film is designed to challenge skeptics and equip believers.

Watch the Interview and Stream the Film

Hear firsthand how scientific evidence destroyed Michael’s atheism and led him to create a film that presents the cumulative case for Christianity. You can watch the full YouTube interview below:

Watch: The Numbers Don’t Lie: The Fine Tuning That Destroyed His Atheism

Ready to watch the full film?
Visit: https://universedesigned.com/watch-universe-designed/


Michael Ray Lewis featured on Movieguide discussing Universe Designed and how science led him from atheism to belief in God.

Angry Atheist Gets Confronted By Sciences and Finds God – Universe Designed

Angry Atheist Gets Confronted by Science and Finds God

Michael Ray Lewis’s powerful transformation from atheism to belief is featured in this Movieguide interview about his documentary Universe Designed. Once a self-described aggressive atheist, Michael challenged Christians because he believed their worldview lacked evidence. However, that belief began to shift when his wife felt called back to her faith.

Reluctantly, Michael agreed to attend church with her. Though skeptical at first, he grew curious after watching a YouTube video by astrophysicist Dr. Hugh Ross. The video revealed that science and faith are not at odds. Instead, it showed how discoveries in cosmology align with the Bible’s creation account. This sparked a three-year journey into Christian apologetics that ultimately led Michael to Christ.

In the Universe Designed film, Michael shares what changed his mind. He presents compelling evidence for a creator, including the fine-tuning of the universe, intelligent design in DNA, and the historical reliability of Jesus’ resurrection. Experts like Dr. Stephen Meyer, Dr. Hugh Ross, J. Warner Wallace, and Alisa Childers join him to explain why faith in God is not only reasonable but supported by science.

Michael created the documentary for skeptics like his former self. However, he soon realized that believers also needed this message. Many Christians don’t know how to answer tough questions about their faith. Universe Designed helps bridge that gap. It offers facts that support belief and encourages both skeptics and believers to explore life’s big questions with confidence.

Watch the full interview on Movieguide’s YouTube channel, and explore the evidence for yourself by streaming Universe Designed.


Exclusive Interview With Michael Ray Lewis On Faith Chats TV where Michael Ray Lewis discusses faith, apologetics, and the documentary Universe Designed

Exclusive Interview with Michael Ray Lewis on Faith Chats TV

Exclusive Interview with Michael Ray Lewis: Uncovering the Secrets Behind Universe Designed

In an exclusive interview with Faith Chats TV, filmmaker Michael Ray Lewis shares the inspiration and message behind his new Christian documentary, Universe Designed. Hosted by Andrew Brunet, this conversation offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at how personal transformation, scientific evidence, and the power of storytelling converged to create one of the most anticipated faith-based films of the year.

Michael opens up about his past as an atheist and how his quest for truth eventually led him to faith in Jesus Christ. During the interview, he reflects on how a deep dive into scientific and philosophical evidence—especially the fine tuning of the universe—challenged his worldview and inspired him to share that journey through film.

Behind the Scenes of Universe Designed

Michael Ray Lewis explains that Universe Designed was born out of a desire to reach both skeptics and believers. The film tackles big questions about truth, origins, and the purpose of life, all while featuring respected voices in Christian apologetics like Hugh Ross, J. Warner Wallace, Alisa Childers, and more.

The interview also explores the challenges Michael faced while producing the documentary, including funding the project himself and managing four years of research, travel, filming, and editing. Yet, despite those obstacles, the result is a high-quality film that speaks directly to the heart and mind.

Watch the Interview and Stream the Film

If you’re curious about what drove Michael to spend years crafting a film that explores faith through the lens of evidence, don’t miss this episode of Faith Chats TV. It’s a rare opportunity to hear the personal story behind the project.

You can watch the full interview here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPtlcYvwa6Y

To watch Universe Designed, visit:
https://universedesigned.com/watch-universe-designed/


Why I Believe Michael Ray Lewis On LIFE Today Live sharing his journey from atheism to Christianity and the evidence behind his faith

Why I Believe: Michael Ray Lewis on LIFE Today Live

Why I Believe – Michael Ray Lewis on LIFE Today Live

On December 8, 2025, Michael Ray Lewis sat down with LIFE Today Live to share his compelling testimony, his journey from atheism to faith, and the incredible story behind his new Christian documentary, Universe Designed. This powerful interview, titled “Why I Believe,” dives deep into Michael’s transformation and what ultimately convinced him that Christianity offers the best explanation for the universe and our place in it.

Michael Ray Lewis Explains Why He Believes

During the interview, Michael recounts how he once identified as a militant atheist who rejected the Christian worldview outright. He challenged believers and clung to arguments against God’s existence. But everything began to change when a video from astrophysicist Hugh Ross appeared in his YouTube feed. That video opened the door to a years-long exploration of faith, evidence, and reason.

Michael discusses the turning point moments that caused him to take a second look. The fine-tuning of the universe, the reliability of scripture, and the historical case for the resurrection of Jesus all played a major role in reshaping his perspective. Over time, the evidence became too overwhelming to ignore.

Watch Why I Believe and Explore the Documentary

Michael’s conversation on LIFE Today Live is more than just a personal story — it’s an invitation to examine the evidence for yourself. Whether you’re a skeptic, seeker, or believer, this interview offers insight, honesty, and hope.

You can watch the full interview here:
Watch on YouTube
Watch on LightSource

Ready to go even deeper? Stream the full documentary Universe Designed today and explore the evidence for yourself:

Stream Universe Designed


Sean McDowell interviewing Michael Ray Lewis with the text I was an aggressive atheist displayed on screen

"I was an aggressive atheist", Michael Ray Lewis Shares His Story

I Was an Aggressive Atheist, How Michael Ray Lewis Found Faith and Created Universe Designed

December 6, 20253 Minutes

An Interview with Sean McDowell

Michael Ray Lewis, director of Universe Designed, sat down with Sean McDowell for a powerful conversation about his journey from skepticism to filmmaking and the release of his upcoming documentary. Watch the interview on YouTube. Additionally, here’s a breakdown of the full conversation:

From Atheism to Evidence: The Story Behind Universe Designed

The journey behind Universe Designed begins with a confession from director Michael Ray Lewis. “I was an aggressive atheist.” The phrase anchors his story and frames the entire documentary. Lewis once challenged Christians at every turn and used the arguments of the New Atheists to dismiss belief in God. Yet his own curiosity eventually forced him to investigate the evidence he had ignored for years.

Curiosity That Opened a Door

Lewis describes a home where faith was mentioned but never explored. He stepped into adulthood convinced that science ruled out Christianity. He often repeated the line “I was an aggressive atheist” because he pushed Christians with questions no one around him could answer. Everything changed when a video by astrophysicist Hugh Ross appeared in his YouTube feed. The explanation of the universe in that video broke apart years of assumptions and pushed him into research instead of slogans.

A Personal Search That Led to Faith

Lewis read books by Tim Keller, Hugh Ross, Sean McDowell, and other Christian thinkers. Slowly he moved from opposition to honest investigation. Conversations with his wife and a theologian brought clarity to the questions that once fueled his atheism. By the end of his search, Lewis understood that belief in God was far more reasonable than he expected. His admission “I was an aggressive atheist” shifted from a position of pride to a marker of transformation.

Why He Created Universe Designed

This personal shift inspired Lewis to create a documentary for skeptics like his former self. Universe Designed features interviews with leading voices in Christian thought, including Sean McDowell, Hugh Ross, Stephen Meyer, Alisa Childers, and Frank Turek. The film presents scientific, historical, and philosophical evidence for God in a format built for both believers and skeptics.

It is not simply a film. It is an invitation for viewers who have ever said “I was an aggressive atheist” or who know someone wrestling with doubt.

Watch the Film and Explore More

Universe Designed is available through major streaming platforms. To explore the cast, additional resources, and more information about the documentary, visit UniverseDesigned.com.

Resources

Visit our Resources Page

If you want to dig deeper into the case for Christianity, visit our apologetics resources page for a collection of websites dedicated to exploring the Universe and the scientific evidence that points to a finely-tuned universe.

RESOURCESWATCH TRAILER

Thumbnail image for the Christian apologetics documentary featuring two men with microphones and the title “From Militant Atheist to Christian Filmmaker.”

From Militant Atheist to Christian Filmmaker: Michael Ray Lewis and Universe Designed at Cross Examined

From Militant Atheist to Christian Filmmaker: Michael Ray Lewis and Universe Designed

Watch the full interview below:

Meet the Director: Michael Ray Lewis

Michael Ray Lewis didn’t grow up in a deeply religious household. In his early adult years, he became a self-proclaimed militant atheist, convinced there was no good reason to believe in Christianity. But after a three-year investigation into the evidence for God and the reliability of the Bible, everything changed.

In his interview with Frank Turek, Lewis shares how he went from debunking Christianity to discovering a deep, evidence-based faith that led him to produce his first feature-length film: Universe Designed.

The Film: Universe Designed

Universe Designed is a powerful apologetics documentary that explores questions like:

  • Does truth exist?
  • Is there scientific evidence for a Creator?
  • Did Jesus rise from the dead?

The film features top apologists and scholars including Hugh Ross, J. Warner Wallace, Alisa Childers, and more, offering insight into some of life’s biggest questions. With cinematic visuals and clear logic, it’s an accessible introduction to apologetics for both skeptics and believers.

Mark Your Calendar

Red carpet premiere: December 12 in Dallas, TX. Click here to get tickets!

Streaming release: December 13 on Amazon, Apple TV, Fandango, and Google TV.

Resources for Deeper Study

Want to explore the topics from the film in more depth? Visit our Resources page for links to ministries, books, and videos from the scholars featured in the film.

Ready to watch?

Watch the full interview now, share it with someone curious, and prepare for a powerful film experience that could change how people see faith, science, and reason.

Click here to watch the video on YouTube.


A Message from the Director of Universe Designed

UNIVERSE DESIGNED

A Message from the Director of Universe Designed

from Michael Ray Lewis

Share this!

As I reflect on this incredible journey, I am overwhelmed with gratitude—for you, for this project, and most importantly, for God’s guidance and provision every step of the way. It’s been nearly three years since I began this film, and it’s been a journey full of challenges and growth. I wanted to take a moment to share an update with you and invite you to be part of what’s next.

Thanks to your prayers and generosity, production was a success, and post-production is almost complete. We’ve accomplished so much: the music is done, and most of the visual effects are finalized. Still, we have about 20% of the VFX left to complete, along with the audio mixing, mastering, and final color work. Beyond that, we’ll need to prepare the film for distribution to ensure its message reaches as many hearts as possible.

I’ve been praying for wisdom and resourcefulness throughout this process, and I’ve done everything I can to stretch your donations as far as possible. I’ve taken on much of the editing myself and worked hard to limit expenses, trusting that God will continue to provide. But now, as we approach the final stretch, I’m asking for your continued support—whether through donations, prayers, or sharing our mission with others who might feel called to help.

To show my appreciation and keep you involved in this journey, I’m thrilled to announce a special live event happening before the end of the year. During this event, I’ll be sharing a ten-minute preview of the film, giving you a glimpse of what we’ve been creating, and hosting a Q&A session to answer your questions. I know it’s been a long process, and many of you have been waiting patiently for updates. I can’t wait to share this progress with you and celebrate how far we’ve come. Please watch your email for details about the event!

This film is not just a project; it’s a calling. I truly believe God has a purpose for it, and I am trusting Him to use it to touch lives in ways I can’t even imagine. Your generosity and faith have been a blessing, and I am so grateful to have you as a partner in this mission.

Thank you for everything you’ve done to make this possible. I pray that God blesses you for your kindness and generosity, and I look forward to connecting with you at the live event!

Keep Jesus at the Center,
Michael Ray Lewis



Interview with Alisa Childers

UNIVERSE DESIGNED

Interview with Alisa Childers

Alisa Childers' YouTube Channel

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In this episode of Alisa Childers’ podcast, Michael Lewis, director of Universe Designed, shares the vision and the mission behind the movie.

Alisa also interviews a campus pastor and a college student who tells her story of coming across the gospel message while still in school.


Please consider donating towards the movie so that we can continue to invest in special effects and the post-production of the movie, thank your for your generosity. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us by clicking here.

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