What is Christian minimalism?

Answer

Minimalism is a philosophy that promotes sparseness and simplicity in living one’s life. Minimalists seek to eliminate unneeded or unused items and live in an uncluttered environment, owning as little as possible in terms of material possessions. They believe in owning only what is necessary, rather than accumulating possessions, hoarding for the future, or saving excessively. Minimalists adhere to the principle that anything not immediately required should be given to those in immediate need. Christian minimalism aims to integrate this philosophy with the Christian faith. There are debates both for and against Christian minimalism. Ultimately, individuals must follow their conscience regarding what they own, save, and give. No Christian should feel obligated to embrace minimalism, as “God loves a cheerful giver” «Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. », (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Throughout history, there have been Christians committed to living in accordance with minimalism. Conversely, there have also been Christians who possess wealth, save money, and own possessions. The apostle Paul famously supported himself during his missionary travels (1 Corinthians 9:1-27). Simultaneously, he advised churches to provide for those working for the kingdom (verses 9–11). Jesus himself did not possess much, if anything «And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. », (Matthew 8:20).>, but He never commanded His followers to live according to the same rule. In fact, Jesus was the beneficiary of the possessions and wealth of Lazarus and his sisters (John 12:1-5). Scripture places an emphasis on a Christian’s conscience in “gray areas.” Sinful behavior is clearly outlined in Scripture. However, there are behaviors that are not clearly categorized as either “righteous” or “sinful,” and these things fall under this rule: “whatever does not proceed from faith, is sin” «And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.», (Romans 14:23).

Christian minimalism should be seen as a way of life that some people choose in order to worship God in a way that is special and meaningful to them. Some choose Christian minimalism as a way to express gratefulness to God for providing for them and to remind themselves to give to those who are less fortunate. But there is no biblical command for a Christian to be a minimalist, so a commitment to minimalism cannot be used as a measure of godliness. The Bible does not speak against possessions or riches per se; its warnings are directed at greed and the misuse of material wealth (James 5:1-6;Luke 6:24;1 Timothy 6:9).
It is worth noting that a person can be generous without being minimalistic. Generosity is virtuous, and it is rewarding: “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully” «But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. », (2 Corinthians 9:6). Can some of the principles of Christian minimalism be applied to your life without fully committing to it?

Do we need to be more generous in our giving? Yes. Do most of us have more than we require? Most likely. Simplifying our lives and emphasizing giving should be a subject of prayer and reflection for all Christians.