Last week we started our Bible study on being transformed by the renewing of our minds. If you missed it, you can find it here.
The Role of Scripture in Renewing Our Minds
God’s Word is Our Guide
Scripture gives us the foundation for what we believe:
The Bible is the foundation of our faith. It’s where we get our beliefs about God, salvation, and how we should live. When we work on renewing our minds, we’re swapping out the messed-up ideas from the world for the solid truths from Scripture.
- Doctrinal Foundation: The Bible answers big questions, like who God is, why we need Him, and how Jesus brings us eternal life. When we root our beliefs in Scripture, we’re building a solid understanding of our faith.
- Counteracting False Beliefs: The world is always throwing out ideas that don’t line up with what the Bible says. We can spot and reject those false beliefs by renewing our minds with Scripture. For example, while the world may say truth is relative, Scripture reminds us that God sets absolute moral standards.
Scripture gives us wisdom for daily life:
The Bible isn’t just about theology; it’s full of practical advice for living out our faith every day.
- Moral and Ethical Guidance: It gives us clear guidelines for making the right choices in life, like being honest, showing kindness, and standing up for what’s right.
- Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: The Bible shares stories of people who faced real struggles, showing how God helped them through. We can learn from these examples to make better decisions ourselves.
- Comfort and Encouragement: When life gets tough, Scripture is there to remind us of God’s promises, faithfulness, and love. It gives us hope in moments of doubt or sorrow.
- Spiritual Growth: As we study the Bible, we grow closer to God and become more like Christ. It pushes us to grow in faith, love, and obedience.
Examples of Renewed Minds in the Bible
David – Psalm 119:11
David, known as a man after God’s own heart, shows us what it looks like to have a renewed mind. In Psalm 119:11, he says, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
- Hiding God’s Word in His Heart: David didn’t just read Scripture; he really took it to heart. This shaped his thoughts, decisions, and actions.
- Repentance: Even when David messed up, like with Bathsheba, he knew his sin was against God. He repented and turned back to God.
- Pursuing God’s Will: Throughout his life, David tried to follow God’s will, relying on Scripture to guide his choices.
Jesus – Matthew 4:1-11
When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He showed us the power of a renewed mind.
- Resisting Temptation: Satan tried to use Jesus’ hunger, pride, and desire for power against Him. But every time, Jesus fought back with Scripture, saying, “It is written…” His renewed mind helped Him resist sin.
- Dependence on God’s Word: Jesus relied on God’s Word for strength and guidance, knowing that every word from God mattered.
- Standing Firm in His Identity: Satan even tried to make Jesus doubt who He was. But Jesus, rooted in Scripture, stood firm in His identity as God’s Son.
These are just a few examples of where scripture is used to transform and renew one’s mind. Last week I asked you to write down a list of thoughts you believe God wants you to counter with His Truth. Start looking for Bible verses that dispel those negative thoughts.
Next week we’ll look at some practical tips for keeping your mind focused on God. I also have a surprise to give you at the end of the lesson.
