According to human nature, most "extreme" things are generally frowned upon. Too much of anything is apparently unwanted: "Those eggs have too much salt" ... "That steak was cooked too long" ... "You spend too much time at work". We naturally favor Spring and Fall because Summer is "too hot" and Winter is "too cold". These are natural circumstances, and are understood. But from the Christian perspective, is there such a thing as "extremism"? Can we be too Christian?
Personally, I do not believe so. Jesus said, "I would thou wert cold or hot" (Rev 3:15). He would rather us freeze with frigid lifelessness than to possess only a portion of love for the Lord! Reader, a mere portion is much more dangerous than none at all.
We live in a day and age where "moderation is key". While this may of course be appropriate for things such as alcohol consumption, or speed limits, is it appropriate for our relationship with King Jesus? Again, I do not believe so. I do not feel that the term "Bible thumper" should possess a negative connotation. Why? Because the Bible actually presents the genuine Christian life with a standard enthusiasm, over-zealousness, and fanaticism! In other words, the Bible readily encourages us to be fanatical Christians! Are you surprised?
Here are just a few Scriptural examples of what the religious norm would today label as fanaticism:
1. Moses remained on the mountain, in the presence of God, by himself, for 40 strait days (Exod 24:18).
2. David openly danced with all his might when the Ark returned to the people of God (2 Sam 6).
3. David's tabernacle consisted of prayer and worship for 24 hours a day (1 Chron 22-25; 16:11, 23, 37, 40, etc).
4. David funded the purchase of land, materials and treasure for the construction of the temple of Solomon (2 Sam 24).
5. Shadrach, Meshach and Anednego chose rather to be burned alive than to bow to an idolatrous statue (Dan 3:16-19).
6. The early church met daily, not only weekly (Acts 2:46).
7. The early church had all things common (shared everything they owned - Acts 2:44).
8. The early church practiced and coveted spiritual gifts (1 Cor 12:31; Acts 2:43).
9. Jesus fasted 40 days without any food (Lk 4:1-2).
10. Paul and others chose to suffer affliction, torment and the loss of all things for the sake of the Gospel (2 Cor 6:4-5; 11:23-27; Phil 3:8).
Let's ask ourselves: Where would we be if these glorious events did not ever transpire? Would Christianity be as progressed as it now is? Doubtful. It would seem, therefore, that such "fanaticism" has been the propellant of truth, the surge of success, and the aid to greater global understanding.
If such "fanatical" ideas are continually promoted in Scripture, wouldn't it behoove us to take heed and at least consider the possibility of their modern day application? The idea that these truths apply only dispensationally is a spiritual atrocity! Just because the world has drastically become more evil, is that an excuse for the Church to become spiritually relaxed and sit back on her lees (see Jer 48:11)? No. In fact, it is a valid reason for the church to fanatically shine brighter than ever before!
Reader, don't get mad when you perceive someone as a Christian fanatic.. Rather, pray to your heavenly Father that He would cause you to obtain such vehement passions for His Son. My pastor always says, "a fanatic is someone who loves Jesus more than you do." I wholeheartedly agree!
Here on earth, people will always have varying degrees of devotion to the Lord Jesus.. but as for me, please throw me back on the grille! I would love to be cooked "too long" ... I want to be a WELL DONE, good and faithful servant - pun intended (Jn 3:30).
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