Pastor Billy Myron continues the series on the Christian life with “Using the Mind Part 2.” The lesson explores how Christians must change their mindset from their unsaved state, emphasizing reflective thinking (phronema in Greek) as an ongoing frame of mind that shapes behavior and determines victory over sin.
Key points include: Humans consist of body, soul, and spirit, with only the spirit saved at conversion. The mind receives input from both saved spirit and unsaved soul. Christians are called to reflectively think on things above (Colossians 3:2), their heavenly citizenship (Philippians 3:18-20), and their position in Christ—co-died and co-raised with Him.
Examples contrast earthly, infantile, or law-based thinking (as in the Galatians) with mature, Christ-like thinking focused on others, humility, and love (Philippians 2). A “saved frame of mind” (sophronismos) enables living soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age (Titus 2:12), empowered by the Spirit rather than fear or intoxication (Ephesians 5:18, 2 Timothy 1:7).
The lesson stresses that proper understanding of positional truth and future glory affects present behavior. Renewing the spirit of the mind (Ephesians 4:23) is essential for putting off the old man and living victoriously, beyond mere willpower, as illustrated in Romans 7. Believers are urged to be like-minded, reflecting the same truths true of all in Christ.
