Should Christians be minimalists? What is Christian minimalism?

Quick answer

While we must remember that our home is ultimately eternal, there are no edicts in Scripture to become a minimalist. Whether we have much or little, we are called to glorify God and live generously.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Christian minimalism combines faith in Jesus with a philosophy that eschews collecting material things along with any possessions or money not immediately needed. Christian minimalism isn't mandated by Scripture, but it can align with biblical values of contentment and simplicity. The Old Testament warns against the pursuit of wealth as a source of satisfaction, encouraging a focus on God rather than material gain. Jesus Himself lived simply but did not require His followers to do the same. Paul acknowledged the benefits of financial support for ministry without condemning wealth. A minimalist lifestyle can help believers prioritize spiritual values, relationships, and serving others, reflecting Jesus' teaching to store up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19–21). Ultimately, whether a Christian has much or little, the goal is to glorify God and live with a generous, faith-filled heart.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

Ecclesiastes 5:10–12 warns that a focus on wealth and possessions often leads to dissatisfaction and stress. Minimalism, or simplicity, may bring greater peace and satisfaction.

The prayer in Proverbs 30:7–9 for “neither poverty nor riches” reflects a desire for a balanced, content life.

Jeremiah 9:23–24 calls us to boast in God, not in our riches or material gain.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

In the Bible, there are examples of biblical people who live a minimalist lifestyle, as well as those who are wealthy, such as Lazarus and his sisters (John 12:1–5). Jesus, for example, owned very little, if anything (Matthew 8:20), but Jesus never commanded His followers to live this same way.

Paul supported himself in many of his missionary journeys. Yet in 1 Corinthians 9:1–7, Paul makes an argument that workers for the gospel may accept financial support for the work they do.

Christians are taught to care for those less fortunate, such as widows and orphans (James 1:27).

Giving is a part of Christian life, and God calls us to give cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Christians are also wise to save money, though we are not to have a love of money nor to save out of fear or worry nor be miserly. All this to say, certain aspects of a minimalist lifestyle do fit with Scripture, but there is no biblical command for it.

While there are gray areas on life, God does give us guiding principles in Scripture. In Christ, we also have the indwelling Holy Spirit to lead us (Romans 8:12–16). The conclusion may be different for different people in different contexts and seasons of life. We should look to biblical truth and seek God in prayer (James 1:5). We can also remember that in areas of Christian freedom, "whatever does not proceed from faith is sin" (Romans 14:23). So we should be convinced of God’s call in our lives and seek to live it faithfully.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Christians can honor God whether they have a lot or a little. With a minimalist lifestyle, believers can focus less on material wealth and more on spiritual richness. By choosing simplicity, believers make room to prioritize relationships, serve others, and invest in eternal values. Many see giving away possessions as an act of worship, reflecting Jesus’ call to lay up treasures in heaven rather than on earth (Matthew 6:19–21). Living minimally can also foster gratitude and reliance on God, reminding believers that their true security and worth come from Him alone. The minimalist lifestyle can inspire others to see a practical expression of faith that prioritizes God's kingdom over worldly gain. Of course, minimalism can also be twisted into a trap of self-righteousness or be used to disguise an unwillingness to receive and share God’s good gifts. Ultimately, we must all honor God with everything He entrusts to us, knowing we are merely stewards and that all of His gifts to us are to be used for His glory.

UNDERSTAND

God does not call us to minimalism.

Having less stuff can help us focus on kingdom values.

Whether we have a lot or a little, we are to glorify God and be generous.

REFLECT

How much do material possessions influence your sense of contentment or security?

How could simplifying your lifestyle help you focus more on your relationship with God?

How might your current lifestyle impact your ability to be generous or serve others?

ENGAGE

How can we encourage others to focus more on spiritual wealth over material possessions?

What are some practical ways we can live out the principles of Christian minimalism no matter how much we own?

How might prioritizing generosity over accumulation serve as a witness to others about our faith?