In Philippians 2:5, Paul writes, “Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus” (NASB). This command calls believers to adopt the mindset of Jesus—a mindset characterized by humility, sacrifice, and compassion. The Christian journey is one of following Christ’s example, not merely in outward behavior but in the transformation of the heart and mind. Just as we use blueprints to construct buildings or maps to navigate, Christ’s life serves as the pattern for how we should think, act, and respond to others. By studying the qualities that defined Jesus’ mind, we can better understand what it means to walk in His footsteps.
The Necessity of Christ’s Example
Scripture emphasizes the importance of a model to follow. God recognized that human beings are creatures of imitation, learning by observing others. Jesus, therefore, serves as our perfect example, as both fully God and fully human, demonstrating how we should live. Peter writes, “For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps” (1 Peter 2:21, NASB). Christ’s life was perfectly fitted to show us the way, providing a blueprint for a godly life.
Hebrews reminds us of His obedience, even in suffering: “Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered” (Hebrews 5:8, NASB). By examining the qualities of His mind, we are called not only to admiration but to active imitation. Each believer is invited to “let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5, NASB).
1. A Pure Mind
Christ exemplified a pure mind, untouched by sin or moral corruption. Peter affirms, “Who committed no sin, nor was any deceit found in His mouth” (1 Peter 2:22, NASB). Though He lived in a sinful world, Christ’s thoughts and intentions remained pure. Even as a youth, He spent time in the temple, seeking wisdom and understanding, as recorded in Luke 2:46-49. Jesus’ purity of mind was central to His identity and mission.
For us, maintaining a pure mind involves careful selection of what we allow into our hearts. Just as Jesus engaged with scripture and God’s presence, we too should focus on godly influences, immersing ourselves in God’s word and seeking wisdom. What we read, watch, and contemplate shapes our minds. Paul reminds us to think on things that are pure, lovely, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8), setting a standard for purity in our thoughts.
2. A Sacrificing Mind
The life of Christ was marked by a spirit of sacrifice. God has always called for sacrifice, as shown in the story of Cain and Abel. Yet Jesus’ sacrifice was far greater, as He laid down His life for humanity’s redemption. John 3:16 declares, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (NASB). Jesus set the ultimate example of sacrificial love, showing that true sacrifice means giving up one’s own desires for the sake of others.
Paul urges believers to adopt a similar mindset: “Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship” (Romans 12:1, NASB). Sacrifice is not limited to physical offerings but encompasses a willingness to give up our time, resources, and personal comfort for the kingdom of God. A sacrificial mind seeks ways to serve and uplift others, embodying Christ’s love in action.
3. A Forbearing Mind
Jesus displayed a forbearing spirit throughout His life. He was patient and long-suffering, even with those who rejected or misunderstood Him. Paul urges believers to adopt this attitude, saying, “…with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love” (Ephesians 4:2, NASB). Jesus exemplified this patience, enduring the faults and failures of His followers and forgiving those who wronged Him.
In His interactions, Jesus showed extraordinary restraint, even when falsely accused or treated unjustly. He bore insults, mockery, and suffering without retaliation. As Isaiah prophesied about the Messiah, “He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth; like a lamb that is led to slaughter, and like a sheep that is silent before its shearers, so He did not open His mouth” (Isaiah 53:7, NASB). This forbearance challenges us to respond to others with patience and grace, even when we are wronged or misunderstood.
4. A Humble Mind
Humility defined the life and mission of Christ. Although He had every right to assert His divinity, Jesus chose the path of humility, as described in Philippians: “He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:8, NASB). His humility was not weakness; it was a deliberate choice to serve and uplift others rather than exalt Himself.
Christ’s humility serves as a powerful model for us. Micah 6:8 calls us to “walk humbly with your God” (NASB), reminding us that humility is central to our walk with the Lord. True humility means putting others before ourselves and seeking God’s will above our own desires. Peter advises, “Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5, NASB). In humility, we honor God and cultivate a spirit of service and compassion.
5. A Compassionate Mind
Compassion was a defining characteristic of Jesus. He looked upon people with empathy and concern, often moved to act on their behalf. In Matthew 9:36, we read, “Seeing the people, He felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd” (NASB). This compassion drove Him to heal the sick, feed the hungry, and teach the lost.
Jesus’ compassion is perhaps best illustrated in His response to suffering. He wept at the grave of Lazarus (John 11:35) and lamented over Jerusalem, grieving for those who would reject Him. His love extended to those society often overlooked, reaching out to heal and restore those in need. This example calls us to cultivate compassion, to see others through God’s eyes, and to act with love and empathy.
Conclusion: Embracing the Mind of Christ
The mind of Christ is a model for every believer, offering a blueprint for a life that honors God and serves others. His purity, sacrifice, forbearance, humility, and compassion set a high standard, yet He invites us to “follow in His steps” (1 Peter 2:21, NASB). By seeking to adopt His mindset, we allow God to shape our character, making us more like Christ.
This journey requires daily commitment and intentionality, as we choose to let His attitudes guide our thoughts and actions. Paul’s encouragement in Philippians 2:5 serves as a continual reminder: “Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus.” Let us seek to live with the mind of Christ, reflecting His love and grace to a world in need.
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