Romans 8:6

For to be carnally minded [is] death; but to be spiritually minded [is] life and peace.

For {G1063} to be {G5427} carnally {G4561} minded {G5427} is death {G2288}; but {G1161} to be {G5427} spiritually {G4151} minded {G5427} is life {G2222} and {G2532} peace {G1515}.

Having one’s mind controlled by the old nature is death, but having one’s mind controlled by the Spirit is life and shalom.

The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace,

For the mind of the flesh is death; but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace:

Romans 8:6 stands as a powerful summary of the core message of Romans chapter 8, contrasting two fundamental orientations of life and their inevitable outcomes. It serves as a profound declaration of the spiritual realities at play in the believer's life.

Context

This verse is nestled within one of the most significant chapters in the New Testament, often called the "Magna Carta of Christian Liberty." Paul has just concluded his discourse in Romans 7, describing the internal struggle between the desire to do good and the power of indwelling sin. In Romans 8:1, he declares that "there is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus," setting the stage for a discussion of the Spirit-filled life. Verse 6 directly builds upon the contrast introduced in verses 4-5, distinguishing between those who "walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit."

Key Themes

  • The Two Mindsets: The verse sharply divides human existence into two distinct orientations: the "carnally minded" and the "spiritually minded." These aren't merely intellectual positions but represent the dominant inclinations and dispositions of a person's life.
  • Consequences of Orientation: Paul clearly states the stark results of these mindsets. To be "carnally minded" leads to death, signifying not just physical cessation but spiritual separation from God, a state of alienation and ultimate ruin. Conversely, to be "spiritually minded" results in life and peace, encompassing spiritual vitality, communion with God, and an inner tranquility that transcends circumstances. This "life" is the abundant life promised by Christ (John 10:10), and "peace" is the peace of God that surpasses all understanding.
  • The Spirit's Empowerment: The ability to be "spiritually minded" is not a result of human effort alone but is enabled by the Holy Spirit. It speaks to living under the Spirit's influence and guidance, allowing Him to transform one's thoughts and desires.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "carnally minded" translates the Greek phronema sarkos (φρόνημα σαρκός). Phronema denotes a mindset, inclination, disposition, or way of thinking. Sarkos, often translated "flesh," refers not just to the physical body but to the unredeemed human nature, the sinful disposition that is hostile to God and His law. Thus, "carnally minded" means having a mind set on the things of the flesh, governed by sinful desires and human wisdom apart from God.

Conversely, "spiritually minded" comes from phronema pneumatos (φρόνημα πνεύματος). Here, pneumatos refers to the Holy Spirit. This signifies a mind that is controlled, directed, and influenced by the Holy Spirit, aligning with God's will and spiritual truths. The contrast highlights the fundamental difference in the source of one's governing principles.

Practical Application

Romans 8:6 challenges believers to examine the orientation of their minds. It’s a call to actively choose to "set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth" (Colossians 3:2). This verse encourages a deliberate surrender to the Holy Spirit's leading in daily life, allowing Him to shape thoughts, desires, and actions. Living by the Spirit brings genuine spiritual life and an inner peace that the world cannot offer, even amidst trials. It's a reminder that true spiritual vitality and peace are found not in striving in the flesh, but in yielding to the Spirit.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Galatians 6:8

    For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

  • Romans 8:7

    Because the carnal mind [is] enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

  • Romans 8:13

    For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.

  • Romans 13:14

    But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to [fulfil] the lusts [thereof].

  • Romans 6:23

    For the wages of sin [is] death; but the gift of God [is] eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

  • Galatians 5:22

    But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

  • John 14:27

    Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

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