Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Usage:The term "minding" in a biblical context generally refers to the act of setting one's thoughts, attention, or affections on something. It involves a deliberate focus or consideration, often implying obedience or adherence to a particular mindset or set of values. In Scripture, "minding" can relate to both spiritual and earthly matters, highlighting the importance of where one's focus lies.
Biblical References:1.
Romans 8:5-6 : "Those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace." This passage contrasts two types of "minding": one that is focused on earthly, fleshly desires, and another that is oriented towards spiritual matters. The apostle Paul emphasizes the consequences of each mindset, underscoring the importance of aligning one's mind with the Spirit to attain life and peace.
2.
Philippians 2:5 : "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." Here, Paul encourages believers to adopt the mindset of Christ, characterized by humility, obedience, and selflessness. This exhortation to "mind" the things of Christ serves as a call to emulate His example in thought and action.
3.
Colossians 3:2 : "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." This directive instructs believers to focus their thoughts and affections on heavenly matters rather than being preoccupied with worldly concerns. It reflects a call to prioritize spiritual growth and eternal values over temporal pursuits.
4.
Romans 12:2 : "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This verse highlights the transformative power of a renewed mind, one that is not shaped by worldly influences but is instead aligned with God's will. The renewal of the mind is presented as a crucial aspect of spiritual growth and discernment.
Theological Implications:The concept of "minding" in the Bible is deeply connected to the idea of spiritual focus and transformation. It suggests that where one sets their mind has profound implications for their spiritual life and relationship with God. The Scriptures consistently encourage believers to cultivate a mindset that is aligned with God's purposes, characterized by a focus on spiritual truths and eternal realities.
Practical Application:In practical terms, "minding" involves a conscious effort to direct one's thoughts and affections towards God and His kingdom. This can be achieved through regular prayer, meditation on Scripture, and active participation in the life of the church. By setting their minds on things above, believers are better equipped to resist the temptations of the flesh and live in accordance with the Spirit.
Conclusion:While the Bible does not use the term "minding" frequently, the concept is integral to the Christian life. It calls for a deliberate and ongoing effort to align one's thoughts and desires with the will of God, fostering a life that reflects the character and priorities of Christ.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
1. (
p. pr. & vb. n.) of Mind.
2. (n.) Regard; mindfulness.
Library
Letter viii. To Demophilus, Therapeutes. AboutMinding Ones Own...
... LETTERS OF DIONYSIUS THE AREOPAGITE. LETTER VIII. To Demophilus, Therapeutes.
Aboutminding ones own business, and kindness. SECTION I....
How to Keep Out of Trouble
... effective. And thus he went on smiling, praising the Lord andminding his
own business, and he was "happy John" even to the end....
That it Becomes the Soul to Praise God, and to Confess unto Him.
... [354] St. Paul speaks of a "minding of the flesh" and a "minding of the spirit"
(Romans 8:6, margin), and we are prone to be attracted and held by the carnal...
What the Soul Ought to do in Internal Recollection.
... applied will thy Soul be, if retreating within it self, it there shrink into its
own nothing, both in its Center and superiour Part, withoutminding what it...
"For they that are after the Flesh do Mind the Things of the Flesh...
... We told you that this new nature of a Christian shows itself in affection and motion,
inminding and walking, both are signs of life, and the proper actions of...
Concerning Power, Justice, Preservation, Redemption, in which Also...
... of the whole, as preserving and guarding the essence and order of each, distinct
and pure from the rest; and as being genuine cause of eachminding its own...
Be not Conformed to this World. Romans 12:2.
... 1. Because it is directly at war with the spirit of the gospel, and is
minding earthly things. What isminding earthly things, if...
The Name Children Does not Imply Instruction in Elementary...
... believed on the Holy Spirit spiritual, and those newly instructed and not yet purified
carnal; whom with justice he calls still carnal, asminding equally with...
Baxter -- Making Light of Christ and Salvation
... business as the all-seeing God doth; to see at one view both heaven and hell, which
men are so near; and see what most men in the world areminding, and what...
The Holy Spirit Bearing Witness to Our Sonship.
... the righteousness of the law fulfilled in us who walk not after the law but after
the Spirit (vs.2-4); then we have the believer notminding the things of the...
Thesaurus
Minding (5 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Mind. 2. (n.) Regard;
mindfulness. Multi-Version Concordance
Minding (5 Occurrences).
...Mindful (39 Occurrences)
Vie (2 Occurrences)
... 1 Thessalonians 4:11 and to vie with one another in eagerness for peace, every one
minding his own business and working with his hands, as we ordered you to do...
Eagerness (6 Occurrences)
... 1 Thessalonians 4:11 and to vie with one another in eagerness for peace, every one
minding his own business and working with his hands, as we ordered you to do...
Conceited (14 Occurrences)
... Romans 12:16 of the same mind one toward another, notminding the high things, but
with the lowly going along; become not wise in your own conceit; (See RSV NIV...
Afoot (3 Occurrences)
... Acts 20:13 And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to
take in Paul: for so had he appointed,minding himself to go afoot. (KJV)....
Sailed (28 Occurrences)
... Acts 20:13 And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to
take in Paul: for so had he appointed,minding himself to go afoot....
Appointed (385 Occurrences)
... Acts 20:13 And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to
take in Paul: for so had he appointed,minding himself to go afoot....
Respect (204 Occurrences)
... Amen. (WEY). Romans 12:16 Have the same respect one for another, notminding high
things, but going along with the lowly: be not wise in your own eyes: (DBY)....
Minds (137 Occurrences)
Resources
What is Wicca? Is Wicca witchcraft? | GotQuestions.orgMinding: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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