Essential: The Foundation of Christian Priorities and Biblical Truth

Essential relates to what is absolutely necessary and extremely important in the Christian life. Understanding what truly matters helps us maintain our relationship with God and fulfill our calling without being side-tracked into activities that, while desirable, are not vital for our spiritual growth and eternal destiny.

The Core Essentials of the Christian Faith

Regardless of what else a person does or doesn't do in life, it is crucial they become a child of God and walk with Him to avoid eternal damnation (Jn 1:12, 3:36). This relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation upon which all other aspects of Christian life are built. Without this essential step, no amount of good works or religious activity can secure salvation.

In our Christian walk we should have a clear grasp of the core foundational truths or principles of the Bible that relate directly to salvation and God's identity (2 Tim 2:15). Generally these Bible teachings have become doctrine or recognised beliefs and need to be passed on through discipleship. Jesus instruction was to not just preach the gospel and baptise those who believe but for them to 'do' what He had taught the disciples (Mt 28:19-20).

These crucial facts are to shape our beliefs and so be reflected in our lifestyle. Without agreement with others in these matters we can't have true Christian fellowship. Remember we are answerable to God as to how we have lived according to the directives He has given (Jn 12:48; Heb 9:27). We must not allow ourselves to compromise, be distracted from or diverted from obeying the clear teaching of Scripture.

Living According to Scripture

Distinguishing Between Essential and Non-Essential Matters

The logical approach is to do what must be done first, then if there is time, money or resources available consider attending to the non-essential matters. Pray for wisdom to accurately evaluate what is vital and have clear boundaries so you maintain your relationship with God and fulfill your calling without being side-tracked into doing nice yet unprofitable things. Clarify your crucial, non-negotiable, 'must do' things – what you will not compromise.

Make Spiritual Truth the Priority

Martha was being a good hostess, while Mary was receiving the essential, life-changing eternally beneficial truth from Jesus (Lk 10:41-42). This account illustrates how even seemingly good activities can sometimes distract us from what is truly essential. Satan has a range of tactics He uses, attempting to get us deceived and diverted into things of lesser consequence and of little eternal significance.

Busyness in life can be a distraction to keep you occupied and exhausted, preventing meaningful involvement and relationship with God, spouse or family. The urgent should not crowd out the necessary. We must be intentional about prioritising what truly matters and resisting the pressure to fill our lives with activities that may be good but not essential.

Guarding Against Distractions

Navigating Matters of Conviction, Conscience, and Choice

Beyond the non-negotiable principles that form the basis of true Christianity there are numerous areas, where believers should show humility and understanding to those holding a different perspective. These areas can be categorised into matters of conviction, conscience, and choice, each requiring a different approach to Christian liberty and fellowship.

Matters of conviction relate to moral and theological importance that you believe the Bible addresses in a clear and unmistakable way, yet there are also scriptures that seem to present a completely different perspective such as the continuation of the gifts of the Spirit and eternal security. Liberty is to be extended to those who maintain alternative positions, and although being firmly convinced in our own mind we should diligently study the Bible, and change our stance if our understanding is further enlightened.

Matters of Conviction

Matters of conscience relate to things not specifically addressed in the Bible, or unclear because of cultural considerations and challenges of translation. This includes things such as social drinking and the degree of modesty in dress. Again mature and devoted believers sometimes disagree in these important areas yet love and honour is to be extended aware that we are not to cause another to stumble by what we approve (1 Cor 8:9-13).

Matters of Conscience

Matters of choice are things about which the Bible is silent, allowing believers to exercise discretion, discernment and preference, such as community involvement and dietary choices. While we are 'free in Christ' this is not a freedom to indulge our sinful nature, to remain in sin or hold convictions contrary to the Bible (Rom 6:1-2; Gal 5:13). We are not to argue over disputable matters (Act 17:11; Rom 14:1,5).

Matters of Choice

Reflection and Application:

Do I walk humbly with God, listening for His voice of guidance?
What are the non-negotiable essentials in my Christian walk that I will not compromise?
How can I distinguish between urgent demands and truly essential priorities?
Am I extending grace and understanding to believers who hold different convictions on non-essential matters?