LORD’S DAY, SEPTEMBER 10
1 Corinthians 3:1-8
1 Corinthians 3:3

"For ye are yet carnal: for…
there is among you envying,
and strife, and divisions..."

A SANCTIFIED MIND (5)

A Carnal Mind: The Greek terms for "carnally minded" are sárx (flesh) and phrónēma (mind, the tendency or inclination of the mind). "As implying sinfulness, proneness to sin, the carnal nature, the seat of carnal appetites and desires, of sinful passions and affections whether physical or moral" (Zodhiates). Thus, a carnally minded person is still influenced and controlled by his sinful or carnal nature, while a spiritually minded person is influenced and controlled by the Holy Spirit and God’s Word. To be carnally minded is death, enmity and rebellion against God and God’s Word. "For to be carnally minded is death…the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be" (Rom 8:6-7).

A carnally minded person does "mind the things of the flesh." He loves himself and always thinks of himself. His motives are to promote himself, seeking his own and the praise of men because his own self is the centre of his life. Such a carnally minded person "cannot please God" (Rom 8:8).

A carnally minded person usually compares himself with others, and tries to catch up with them and then desires to be top in terms of worldly values, fame, popularity, power and wealth. He has no joy and peace when he sees others better, richer, more beautiful or more successful than himself. "For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?" (1 Cor 3:3). A carnally minded person likes to argue, quarrel, take sides or follow the group in tune with his carnal mind. He easily gets angry, murmurs and complains about others and unfavourable situations or when things happening to him do not meet his expectations. What about you?

A carnally minded person "mind(s) earthly things" (Phil 3:19). He does not take up his cross nor deny himself to follow the Lord Jesus Christ. If he is a pastor, he will be just a hireling. He likes to preach God’s material blessings with worldly values. What about you?

THOUGHT: A carnally minded person can never please God!
PRAYER: Lord, please fill me with Thy holy mind and Word.