Sure it is. You have to make a decision whether to follow the right way or not. And as I see it, an atheist who says "I'm going to live a good life, and love people and reach out to those in need" etc. etc., is responding to the presence of God within him. Even if he doesn't believe in or acknowledge it. It's the spirit of the Creator, naturally within us, that prompts us to think "I want to live a good life and make this world a better place." IMO
As far as religion itself is concerned, sure it's been corrupted. But you mention Jesus and I think you meant Mohammed as well? And you say they knew what religion was all about. So is it the existence of a Creator you have a problem with, or what people have done with the idea?...