The meaning of mind, as per the Webster’s dictionary is “all of the conscious and unconscious processes of the brain and central nervous system that direct the mental and physical behavior of a sentient organism.” From the same dictionary, the meaning of “minded” is “having a specified kind of mind.”
I think based on these definitions, we can characterize and identify a person either as a narrow or open-minded one. As we know that narrow-minded person lack intolerance, and does not accept ideas, views or ways of behaving others that are different from his or her own. We also know that most narrow-minded or one-sided peoples’ minds are closed, and seem to be prejudiced against other people.
On the contrary, open-minded person is receptive to arguments and willing to listen and consider other peoples’ ideas and suggestions. We know that most broad-minded people are impartial, unprejudiced, and unbigoted.
Is Christian a narrow or an open-minded person? I think each believer in Jesus Christ should examine himself or herself and evaluate to see whether or not he/she is a broad or narrow-minded person. In order to examine, I did search the “Word of God” and found the right answers.
In fact, I was shocked to see how clearly the “Word” tells about the mind that God wanted us to have it. Example, “for those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace (Rom.8:5-6 NKJV).” “I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve (Jer. 17:10 NIV).” “Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (Rom.15:5-6 NKJV).” “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, (Phil.2:3&5 NKJV).” “Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble (1 Pe.3:8 NIV).”
In short, God’s word tells us that we need to have a mind of Jesus Christ, and “if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness (Rom.8:10 NKJV).” In other words, “there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus (Gal.3:28 NKJV).” As we can see that God’s word reminds Christians not to be intolerant, prejudice, bigotry or discriminate others.
Therefore, as believers in Jesus Christ, let us strive to have His mind. Please share your thoughts or comments. Appreciated!