SERIES: DEVELOPING THE MIND OF CHRIST
TITLE: ”The Mind of Christ: Transformed Perspectives, Transcendent Living" PART 1
TEXT: (PHIL. 2:5) “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,”
Today I want to discuss a profound concept that holds the power to transform our lives—the Mind of Christ.
As followers of Jesus, we are called to align our thoughts with His, to see the world through His eyes, and to walk in His wisdom. Let us delve into the significance of the Mind of Christ, why we need it, and how we can attain it.
I. What is the Mind of Christ?
“The mind of Christ is a sacred sanctuary where wisdom and compassion merge, illuminating our path with divine guidance and nurturing our souls with boundless love."
The Mind of Christ refers to adopting the perspective, values, and wisdom that Jesus possessed during His earthly ministry. It is an elevated state of consciousness, guided by love, humility, compassion, and an unwavering devotion to the will of God. When we have the Mind of Christ, we begin to see the world as He sees it, with divine clarity and purpose.
1 Cor.2:16 "For, who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?' But we have the mind of Christ."
Imagine standing before a tranquil lake on a clear night, with the sky adorned by countless stars. As you gaze at the reflection of the stars on the calm surface of the water, this scene beautifully illustrates the Mind of Christ.
Just as the lake represents our hearts, we are called to cultivate an inner stillness and surrender in the presence of God. Our hearts, like the lake, can become a vessel for the reflection of His glory. In the quietness of our souls, we invite His Spirit to reside and shape our thoughts, desires, and intentions.
Psalm 46:10a "He says, 'Be still, and know that I am God.'"
II. Why do we need the Mind of Christ?
1. Transformation: The Mind of Christ brings about a radical transformation within us. It enables us to shed our worldly perspectives and embrace the eternal truths of God. Our desires, ambitions, and priorities align with His, leading to a life that is purposeful and fulfilling.
[Romans 12:2 "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
2. Discernment: The Mind of Christ grants us discernment to distinguish between right and wrong, truth and deception. It allows us to make wise decisions and navigate through the complexities of life. By possessing His mind, we gain access to divine wisdom and guidance.
Muhammed Ali served as a role model to many young people during his boxing career. When one student had the opportunity to question Ali, he asked him whether he should continue his studies in college or try and make his fortune in the world. Ali’s response was nothing if not unique: “Stay in college, get the knowledge,” Ali said. “If they can make penicillin out of moldy bread, they can make something out of you!”
3. Compassion and Love: The mind of Christ compels us to love and care for others as He did. It allows us to see people through His eyes, extending compassion, kindness, and forgiveness. With the mind of Christ, we are empowered to love our neighbors, serve those in need, and prioritize relationships above personal gain. It enables us to extend grace to others, just as Christ has extended it to us.
[Phil. 1:9-10] "And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ."
III. How do we achieve the Mind of Christ? Here are 8 Ways…
1. Surrender and Humility: [Phil. 2:5-8] "In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!"
2. Renewing our Minds [Rom.12:2] "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
3. Prayer and Seeking God's Presence: [Psalm 46:10] "He says, 'Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.'"
4. Intimacy with Jesus:[John 15:4-5] "Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
WHAT DOES INTIMACY WITH CHRIST LOOK LIKE?
Intimacy with Christ is a deep and personal connection that transcends religious rituals or intellectual knowledge. It is a relationship characterized by love, trust, and vulnerability. Here are some aspects that capture what intimacy with Christ looks like:
A. Communion of the Heart: Intimacy with Christ involves an authentic and ongoing conversation with Him. It is a constant opening of our hearts, sharing our joys, sorrows, hopes, and fears. It is a relationship where we pour out our deepest thoughts and emotions, knowing that we are fully accepted and loved by Him.
B. Deepening Union: Intimacy with Christ is a lifelong pursuit that deepens over time. It is not a static state but a dynamic relationship that evolves and grows as we invest in it. The more we seek Him, the more we discover the depths of His love, grace, and presence, leading us into a closer union with Him.
In essence, intimacy with Christ is a transformative relationship that permeates every aspect of our lives. It is a journey of experiencing His love, grace, and truth, and being transformed by His presence.
5. Cultivating a Servant's Heart: [Mark 10:45] "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
6. Seeking God's Wisdom and Discernment: [James 1:5] "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."
7. Walking in Love and Compassion: [1 John 4:7] "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God."
8. Living in Obedience to God's Word: [John 14:23]"Jesus replied, 'Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.'"
The Story of the Lost Key: Desperate Search and Longing
The lost key represents something of immense significance, something we deeply desire. Just as the person frantically searches for the key, we often find ourselves in a state of longing, yearning for meaning, purpose, and a deeper connection with God. We sense that there is more to life, but we feel incomplete without finding what is lost.
[Jeremiah 29:13 ]"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
ONE LAST THING… * Attaining the Mind of Christ is a lifelong journey. It requires daily surrender, seeking God's presence, and aligning our thoughts, attitudes, and actions with His. * Fixing our minds on Christ is a transformative practice that brings spiritual growth, peace, and a deepened relationship with God. As we embark on this journey, let us remember the words of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, dwell on these things.”
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the assurance that when we seek Your mind we will find attain it. Help us to be persistent and dedicated in our pursuit of Your presence. Open our eyes to the wonders of Your truth and the abundance of life that comes from knowing You
