No Accidental Christians

When it comes to Christianity, what is your intention?

Sometimes intentions are more like wishing. We might think how good it would be to live in a nice house like the one for sale over on Maine St. Yet, there is no real intention of buying that house. We might think how nice it would be to possess the good character of a good friend; but there is no real intention to gain such character. “How good it would be to be spiritually mature like him/her.” But, what is your intention…?

Many people talk about and think about religion, salvation, and spirituality. Some just talk. They like the idea of possessing the good things seen in a spiritual life, but their interest is more of a wish not genuine intent?

Intent is a part of the human will and indicates purpose. Christianity is not a stroke of luck like winning a door prize. A person comes to genuine faith in Christ with clear thought and a determined will. Benefits are understood, but also the costs.

Jesus told two treasure parables in Matthew 13. In one parable the treasure was stumbled upon quite by accident. In the other parable a merchant was searching for the treasure and found it. In both cases, the individual sold everything in order to possess the treasure. That’s intent.

Every Christian should be able to identify with one of the two individuals in the parables.

Just before his death, Jesus asked his Father if there was another way, that is, another way to complete his mission without dying on the cross. He completed His prayer saying, “Not as I will, but as You will.” His submissive will demonstrated his deep sense of purpose. He was determined to complete his mission of seeking and saving those who were spiritually lost. With intent He deliberately walked a path straight to the cross.

Jesus did not come to earth and then chicken out. His purpose was so strong and his intent so resolute that he was already walking toward the cross before he took on human form. Even before creation He had made His decision.

Some Christians behave as if salvation is a packaged object to possess, or a collectable. They just hold it. Yet, Christianity might be better compared to a marriage. The wedding ceremony is wonderful, but only the beginning of the marriage. A strong marriage takes effort and patience preceded by a determined will and commitment on the part of both husband and wife. Similarly, the point at which a person becomes a Christian is a wonderful occasion. However, the Apostle Paul wrote: “Work through your own salvation with fear and trembling.” Each Christian must have a genuine intention of seeing things through to the end.

Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith…. 

—Hebrews 12:1-2

Jesus demonstrated by his life how to live each day for God’s purpose. He demonstrated how to bring life to its conclusion as God desired. May each of us intend to be like him. And let’s be clear…

There are no accidental Christians.

Mark Stinnett

April 7, 2024