The Christian Mind

by Godwin Okwena, Ojo, Nigeria | Category: General | Jul 1995

'Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus' (Phil. 2:5). One of our most distinctive characteristics as human beings is that we are capable of rational thought. We can determine our actions, decide to go against our instincts, form opinions and like Daniel show purpose of heart (1:8). We are capable of decisions which involve making sacrifices; and of behaviour that displays self-discipline. This is because we have been created with minds that can make an informed choice. The mind is an important part of personality. The possibility of the mind being polluted by worldly influences and seduced by worldly wisdom is very real, hence the exhortations in Romans 12:2: be 'transformed by the renewing of your mind'; and in Colossians 3:2 "Set your minds on things above" (NIV).

Our minds operate at different levels as we encounter various situations. We could be exercised to master technical procedures in business or our chosen career, but may not be motivated to apply our minds to understand ecology or genetics. As Christians we should relate our mental activities to an acknowledgement of the Lordship of Christ. Hence the encouragement to Timothy to 'exercise thyself rather unto godliness' (1 Tim. 4:7).

Why is the development of a Christian mind essential for all disciples? It is the call and the command of the Word of God. We should consider the great commandment given as the summary of the law and the prophets by our Lord Jesus Christ, making it important for all disciples:

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength (Mark 12:30 NIV).

To ensure that the mind is involved in discipleship, the Lord included 'Love the Lord your... with all your mind'. As disciples we must work at learning to love God with our minds. It is a command. We must continually relate to the truth in Jesus Christ.

The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned (1 Cor. 2:14 NIV).

Christians need to develop spiritual discernment. Paul warned Timothy to beware of false teachers who become 'proud ... men of corrupt minds' (1 Tim. 6:4,5). The challenge to develop a renewed mind requires the guidance of the Holy Spirit and a commitment to attempt to bring 'into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ' (2 Cor. 10:5).

A Christian mind cannot exist in the absence of a personal walk with the living God; it is essential that we cultivate a living relationship with our heavenly Father. The development of this relationship depends on communion and hearing God's voice in the Holy Scriptures.

One of the most important aspects of our responsibilities as Christians is evangelism. This involves talking to people about their need of the Lord Jesus Christ. We cannot claim to have the mind of Christ if we neglect the great commission (Matt. 28:19,20). A periodic review of our priorities in life is desirable.

Biblical quotations are from the Authorized version unless otherwise indicated.

Godwin Okwena, Ojo, Nigeria | Jul 1995
General