The beginning of bringing every thought captive to Christ is regeneration. The sinful nature of man has been defined as: the mind’s strong disposition to evil:
“Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior” (Colossians 1:21) NIV
“Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. (Romans 8:5-7) NIV
“The mind of sinful man is death…..” (Romans 6:a) NIV
Regeneration has been defined as: a work of God in which He changes such an evil disposition into one that delights in the laws and precepts of God
“…..but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace” (Romans 6:b) NIV
“I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. Then they will follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. They will be my people, and I will be their God. (Ezekiel 11: 19-20) NIV
When I first came to understand that there isn’t a difference between the heart and the mind, I was elated. I believe when spoken of in scripture you can substitute mind for heart and vice verse and when I do that it clarifies for me what is being spoken of. Many still try and allude to knowing with the head but not the heart and I don’t agree with that. I’m not sure what it is that is being spoken of when given that illustration but that causes confusion. Regeneration, faith, knowledge are all of the mind, known with the mind, discerned with the mind, growth in knowledge (the mind) and that is why bringing every thought captive to Christ is important.
to be continued......
Hello Eileen!
ReplyDeleteIt was so good to hear from you at my blog this morning. I have been reading over your blog posts and have certainly been blessed by them. I read your October post, 'Belonging,' and wow!, so true.
I plan to visit your blog regularly and maybe even link to mine. Do you mind?
So glad you stopped by! I still visit 5Solas, just don't post.
Have a great day!
Carol
I don't mind if you link as I will link to you also to keep up. The internet can be such a blessing for Christians, to meet new friends and be encouraged by others.
ReplyDeleteI'm rather weary of forums and such so spend my time blogging and emailing for good fellowship daily!
Talk with you soon!