Beyond The Basics

I realize it has been forever since I have posted. I have had a very busy month and a half but I hope to be posting more regularly now. For those of you who are regular readers, please forgive my absence.

Imagine there is a ten year old kid taking a stab at college calculus. Let's say that, for whatever reason, this kid never attempted to expand their basic knowledge of mathematics before making an effort to understand calculus. Because of their lack of mathematical knowledge, they find it hard to understand anything that the professor is attempting to teach them. Let's now say that they were put in charge of explaining calculus to someone who was interested in learning it. At best, this kid would only be able to repeat some of what they'd heard from the professor, all the while not understanding what it was they were communicating. It would be safe to say that the person they were explaining this too would not become anymore knowledgeable about calculus than they were before. Obviously, in order for this kid to be successful in understanding and teaching more advanced mathematics, he or she would first need to be knowledgeable of, and have a grasp of, the principles of simpler math.

Just like this ten year old, there are many Christians who become either content with their basic knowledge of Christ or are unwilling to expand that knowledge. These Christians end up becoming frustrated when they try to comprehend certain scriptures or messages and, because they themselves only have a basic understanding of Christ, they are unable to fully teach others about Him.

In Hebrews 6:1a, the author writes, "So let us stop going over the basics of Christianity again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding." Basic understanding of a certain concept or idea is important, as it is the foundation of more advanced concepts or ideas, but, if we limit ourselves to basic understanding, we will never be able to fully understand nor teach others to the fullest. It is important that we strive to know more about Christ and equally important that we maintain the foundation of that knowledge: the basics.

Are you content with your knowledge of Christ? Do you make attempts to study your Bible and get to know more about God? While it is true that knowledge is not what brings forth our salvation, our faith should bring forth a desire to know more about our Savior. That knowledge, in turn, should compel us to become more Christ-like. And how much more Christ-like could your actions be when you know more about what Christ is like!? As you go throughout your day, make time to study God's word and ask Him to reveal to you more about Him. Don't allow your lack of knowledge to deter you from sharing Christ. Rather, strive to know more about Him so that when you do share Him with others, you will not only be able to share with them basic teachings about Christ but you will be able to help guide them as they mature in their walk with Him.