Just Enough

Is it possible that some of us, even if only occasionally, seek for minimal Christianity? By that, I do not mean a simple Christianity devoid of human doctrines (that would be a good thing), but rather a Christianity that seeks to be with God by doing the absolute minimum that we think is required. Do we give of our time or resources only what we figure will keep us in good standing with God? Do we look at being a Christian in terms of, “well I don't steal, I don't cheat, and I haven't killed someone, I go to church a couple times a month and drop a few bucks in the plate so I'm good!”?

See if this question of Peter's relates to us in any way: “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Mathew 18:21. Is this the view we take: how much should I give? How many times do I have to attend services? Will doing good a few times a day be enough? Will forgiving seven times be enough? I am afraid, whether we admit to it or not, we can be guilty of this mindset. For whatever reason, we'll seek to find the minimum, seek that as our standard, and count ourselves done. Of course, the reply to Peter from Jesus is also a reply to us. Notice what he said: “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” Matthew 18:22. Now, I don't believe Jesus set the threshold of 490 to be a number to truly consider. The number is more hyperbole.

The idea that someone would have the opportunity to offend, be forgiven, offend, be forgiven up to 490 times in a day sounds more like a full-time job. Rather than being a number by which the 491st time we are free not to forgive, Jesus is saying there is no number or minimum. You forgive because you are to forgive. You forgive because you are forgiven. We must learn to grow and mature past a minimum attitude. Rather than adding minimum requirements to our day for Godly behavior, God tells us we need to seek things that are above constantly. “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:1-3 Let us not seek to do deeds unto Christ simply, but rather to live our lives unto Christ for we have been raised to seek after Jesus.

By Dr. Nick Secula