Response
In 1 Corinthians 2:16, Paul references Isaiah 40:13 and then declares a truth about all believers: “We possess the mind of Christ.” Having the mind of Christ entails sharing His plan, purpose, and perspective, a gift available to all believers.
Having the mind of Christ means comprehending God’s purpose in the world—to bring glory to Himself, restore creation to its original glory, and offer salvation to sinners. It involves aligning with Christ’s mission “to seek and save the lost” «For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.», (Luke 19:10). It signifies adopting Jesus’ viewpoint of humility and obedience (Philippians 2:5-8), compassion «But when he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.», (Matthew 9:36), and reliance on God through prayer «But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.», (Luke 5:16).
Leading up to 1 Corinthians 2:16, the preceding verses reveal key aspects of the mind of Christ:
1) The mind of Christ contrasts sharply with human wisdom (verses 5-6).
2) The mind of Christ entails divine wisdom, once hidden but now disclosed (verse 7).
3) The mind of Christ is bestowed upon believers through the Spirit of God (verses 10-12).
4) The mind of Christ is a divine gift that transforms believers, enabling them to understand and align with the thoughts and purposes of Christ.Christ’s mind cannot be comprehended by those who lack the Spirit (verse 14).
The mind of Christ provides believers with insight into spiritual matters (verse 15).
To possess the mind of Christ, one must initially have faith in Christ for salvation (John 1:12;1 John 5:12). Following salvation, the believer leads a life under God’s guidance. The Holy Spirit resides within and enlightens the believer, imparting wisdom—the mind of Christ. The believer has a duty to submit to the Spirit’s guidance «And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. », (Ephesians 4:30) and to allow the Spirit to renovate and renew their mind (Romans 12:1-2).
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