Developing Your Christian Head (mind)

Mark12:28-31

Last week - loving, serving, ministering with the whole being.

So today - Developing your head (Christian mind) - thinker, feeler, doer

I. Definition .. the head/the mind - the intellect/perception/understanding, discovering truth(s), analyzing facts & information, acquiring knowledge of God and His will!!!

II. Some New Testament Usage. Luke 24:45
1 Cor. 14:15
Tit. 1:15
Heb. 10:16

III. The importance of developing Christian knowledge & understanding
As seen in....
A. Old Testament wisdom literature - Prov. 1:1-7 Prov. 2:1-5
B. Jesus' teaching ministry. Matt. 4:23 Matt. 5:1-2 Mark 2:13 Mark 6:34 Mark 10:1
(addressed as "Teacher") - John 3:1&2
C. The writings of the Apostles - (Paul) Rom. 12:2
(Peter) 2 Pet. 1:3-5
(John) 1 John 5:20
D. The word disciple Matt. 28:19-20
means to learn, acquire knowledge (note: an intentional learner) Therefore: disciple of Moses, John, pharisees/... Jesus!

E. Common Sense - can't do right until you know what's right!!
Possible scenarios: W.W.J.D.??? Answer: #1. Can't know unless you know!
And, #2. The correct answer can't be found in heart unless the info is in the head!
The Biblical model is: first in the head, then to the heart, and then out through hands.
Typical model is: fact/info starting in the heart (feelings), the to the head and out thru hands.

So, Developing Your Christian Head. (Mind - How to???)

#1. Recognize the importance of proper information
You need the proper info which leads to proper decisions, attitudes, actions, etc.

#2. Get the information
through: A. scripture 2 Tim. 3:16
Assisted by.... B. God's Spirit "Scripture is 'God breathed' "
C. God's people (ancient, contemporary..... individually, corporately)
Remember: disciple means intentional learner, not incidental learner

#3. Use the information
head is not the end of the equation but the beginning 2 Tim. 3:17
(John 13:34-35 John 15:8)

#4. Don't neglect your heart and hands (in the process)
The head is "primary to" the process, but not necessarily "more important than" the heart and hands (or in preference to)
Example: a house foundation is primary to the roof and walls
BUT, is it more important than them?????

#5. Remember the final purpose (outcome/result) is to know God.
it is more than knowing about Him - It is to know Him. John 17:3
for the sake of..... 'self. Those you love, lead, influence.
Those you minister to and direct toward Christ
Future generations.
God's kingdom

John 20:30-31