Saint Luke's Reformed Episcopal Church

Notes

MATURING INTO CHRIST
II. THE CHRISTIAN’S MIND
Colossians 3:1-4 January 11, 2009

INTRODUCTION
“What do you think about when you’re not thinking about anything in particular?” asks John Owen in his “On Spiritual Mindedness.” That’s what St. Paul is asking in this passage. He is concerned about Christians developing the mind of Christ. If we are going to live a life that is mature and glorifying to God, it is vitally important that we develop a Christian mind-set.

I. FOUNDATIONS FOR MATURING INTO CHRIST
We are to use our bodies and our minds in the service of holiness because we no longer serve the ruler of this present world. Ephesians 2. Romans 6. What is the motivation for Godly living? An understanding of the miracle of salvation, which is the foundation of the Christian life and the development of a Christian mind.

II. THE FOCUS OF MATURING INTO CHRIST
Notice the verbs: SEEK those things which are above. SET you minds on things above. The first deals with what we desire. The second with what we think. If you want to know where you are spiritually ask yourself, “What is my chief aim in life?” My affections and my mind ought to be focused on things above. Matthew 6. Are you living for this world or the world to come? Are you laying up treasure for this life? You can’t take it with you. You will remain spiritual babies. Focusing on the things of this life will ruin you. Mark 10. The Rich Young Ruler. “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” St. Paul tells us to set our minds on things above. Develop a Biblical mind-set.

III. GOD’S METHOD FOR MATURING INTO CHRIST
Notice that St. Paul searches the Bible to find the Lord Jesus. He was a student of Scripture. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” Colossians 3:16. The most basic way to mature into Christ is to read the Word of God consistently and regularly. What goes into our minds transforms our lives. Be transformed by the renewing of your mind through the Word of God. Allow the Word of God to sink deeply into your heart and mind.