Introduction: The Model for Our Mind

“Have this mind in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 2:5 (LSB)

Introduction: The Model for Our Mind

To be a disciple of Christ means more than obeying His commands—it means adopting His mindset. The Christlike mind is humble, obedient, self-giving, and focused on the Father’s glory. Systematic theology not only informs us about Christ but also forms in us the very attitude of Christ, aligning our thoughts with His.

What Was Christ’s Mind Like?

Philippians 2:5–8 offers a portrait of Christ’s thinking:

• Selfless — He did not cling to His divine rights

• Humble — He took on human flesh

• Obedient — He submitted to the Father, even unto death

• Servant-hearted — He lived to serve, not to be served

This is the divine mind that believers are called to imitate—not merely admire.

Theology Teaches Us the Mind of Christ

To “have the mind of Christ” is not a vague ideal—it is a doctrinal reality that can be studied and practiced. Christ’s mind is revealed in:

• His person — fully God, fully man

• His work — perfect obedience, atoning death, resurrection

• His priorities — glorifying the Father, serving others, advancing the Kingdom

Systematic theology provides the categories (Christology, Soteriology, Sanctification) to understand and emulate these truths.

Theology Shapes the Christlike Mind

A mind shaped by theology will:

• Prefer humility over pride

• Embrace suffering for God’s purposes

• Prioritize others’ needs above self-interest

• View sin as serious and holiness as beautiful

• Love God with intellect, not just emotion

These are not natural instincts—they are supernatural mindsets formed through exposure to Scripture and doctrine.

Christlikeness Begins in the Mind

True sanctification is not first behavioral but mental. Romans 8:6 says, “The mind set on the Spirit is life and peace.” To think like Christ is to:

• Trust like Christ (John 11:41–42)

• Obey like Christ (John 4:34)

• Discern like Christ (Matt 22:18)

• Pray like Christ (Luke 22:42)

Theology trains the mind to make Christ’s perspective our own.

Application: Forming the Christlike Mind

Ask yourself:

• Is my mind increasingly shaped by Christ’s values and priorities?

• Am I putting off the mind of the flesh and putting on the mind of Christ?

• Do I study doctrine to become more like Jesus—not just more informed?

The Christlike mind grows as we submit to truth, surrender our pride, and seek His glory.

Conclusion

The Christlike mind is both a gift of grace and a goal of discipleship. Through the Spirit and the Word, believers are transformed to think, desire, and act like Jesus. Systematic theology is a vital tool in this transformation, helping us behold Christ clearly so that we may become like Him truly.