The Scriptures present a constant contrast between those who are devoted to God and those devoted to the world. God informs us that some are "spiritually" minded while others are "carnally" minded. Inspiration cautions Christians about those who "are the enemies of the cross of Christ: whose end is perdition, whose god is the belly, and whose glory is in their shame" (Philippians 3:18,19). Those thus described are in that deplorable condition because they "mind earthly things." In dramatic contrast to those who "mind earthly things" are those whose "citizenship is in heaven."

The spiritual man is distinguished by a spiritual mind. This should cause all to seek the spiritual mindset that distinguishes them as God's possession. The Scriptures are clear in stating how this spiritual mindset can be developed. Although Inspiration offers instructions for this development of the spiritual throughout the sixty-six books on Holy Writ, the Book of Proverbs offers particular points that we should follow. Consider how Proverbs encourages the development of the spiritual mind.

The Basic Mechanics of the Spiritual Mindset

Proverbs 1:1-9

The Book of Proverbs stresses that "Wisdom" is the only safeguard for mankind. The value of "Wisdom" is its instruction in "discernment." Those who are spiritually minded are those who are able to "discern" and choose the ways of the Lord God Almighty (Philippians 1:9-11). Thus, the "wise" is also the "discerning." The two terms (wise and discern) are synonyms for the same virtue.

The Proverbs describe discernment with a number of different terms: "understand," "justice," "judgment" (1:3b-4). The idea communicated by these terms is the practice of discrimination. One looks at an issue and sees differences and chooses what is best. Wisdom looks for the Truth in a matter and pursues it rejecting all else. Thus Wisdom passes judgment upon human actions, character and teaching.

Proverbs teaches that this ability to "discern" places one on guard and keeps him from being duped for error. It fosters a suspicion that keeps one from harmful choices. This aspect of Wisdom will "save the simple and the young man from the slower and more painful process of gaining them by a bitter process" (Cooke, 530).

Thoughtful consideration of "discernment" helps one understand how this practice equips one to possess the spiritual mind and resist the worldly mind. The LXX used the Greek term aisyesis (aisthesis), to translate "wisdom." When we learn what "discernment" is, we will be able to understand how we can develop spiritual "wisdom."

What is "discernment"?

Philippians 1:9 reveals that "discernment" has an element of moral discrimination that approves certain things and condemns other things. Throughout the Proverbs we see how this is accomplished there are certain things commended that should be done and other things condemned as absolutely wrong.

An interesting point is discovered in the term "discernment." It literally refers to the "senses." Robertson points out that Hippocrates employed this term for one being able to perceive with sight, touch, hearing, smell, or speech (68). The term indicates how one's "senses" are able to discriminate. Hence, some translations render this word "judgment." "The word suggests the nervous organism of the body, all the avenues of approach by the senses of the mind, that wonderful sensitive plate, more delicate than any seismograph for recording earthquake shocks, or than any chemical apparatus for detecting affinities between atoms, or than any electrical machinery for noting the behaviour of electrons" (Robertson, 68).

It is interesting that Isaiah 11:3 uses this term and indicates that the Spirit would rest upon the Messiah and make Him "quick of scent" ("And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD," KJV). The sense of smell is thus used to describe the process of discrimination. We use this same meaning in our idiom "I SMELL a rat." This expresses judgment that something is not right. The Lord's Church needs "smelling" (1 Corinthians 12:17b). Such an exercise is critical to the Church. "... how quick one is to detect poisonous smells ... if we were quicker of scent and detected the noisome effuvia which indicates corruption and disease, we should more certainly be saved from taking the poison into our systems ... a man of quick scent is warned of danger ... when things are so mixed, that they appear like one another" ( Meyer, 30-31).

The basic idea of "discernment" is "to discriminate between good/evil." Sin blunts the moral senses and blurs spiritual vision. Sin causes mankind to lose spiritual sensitivity. If we are to find genuine happiness, we must be spiritually sensitive.

Failure to do this is sin (Hebrews 5:14). "Few things are more needed by modern Christians than precisely this intelligent moral insight" (Robertson, 70).

Many are tempted to neglect this exercise. They want to replace discernment with enthusiastic approval of anything that appeals to emotions. They want to shun discernment as an "unloving, legalism."

How does discernment work?

Philippians 1:9 offers Christians inspired instructions. Those who follow these instructions will develop a spiritual mindset that enables them to "approve" the more excellent things and reject all else. They must "test" all things and accept only that which is good. Hence, they must judge what is right and what is wrong. This is not an optional exercise for Christians. If one seeks to be "spiritual," then he must practice discernment.

It begins with LOVE.

This "love" is not the kind that ignores wrong and keeps silent. This is AGAPE. It looks out for the best interest of those involved. It asks "What is the right way so-and so should go?" It is unselfish and is dedicated to God. Some use "love" as an excuse for ungodly toleration. True discernment begins with true love! This love is "abounding" the image is that of a bucket filled with water but more water is being poured into it.

It is regulated by KNOWLEDGE.

Discernment is not based upon personal opinions but upon the Word of God (1 John 4:7). Christian love is not blind; it does not ignore. Upon what basis are we to discriminate? How do we judge right or wrong? Such is to be done only upon the knowledge of God's Word. Sadly, many today want to practice "discernment" upon the basis of emotions, personal friendships, or complete "freedom."

It results in APPROVAL.

Scripture tells us that Paul practiced discernment and "smelled" heresy (Galatians 2:11ff). He exposed false doctrines/teachers. Barnabas practiced discernment. He "had a nose" for the good in Saul (Acts 9:26-27); Antioch (Acts 11:22); and in John Mark (Acts 15:37-39). The duty to discern applies to every Christian (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22). Happy are those who can smell the sweet devotion in others or who help protect the integrity of the Church by godly discernment of error. There are others who have a nose only for the evil they have the uncanny knack of locating the griping group, the constant critics, the "poisonous root" that defiles the whole congregation (Hebrews 12:15). "Discernment selects, classifies, and applies what is furnished by knowledge" ( Vincent, 871).

It results in SINCERITY/SALVATION.

When one lives by discernment, he will follow perfect Truth. There will be no hypocrisy! "Sincere" is literally "without wax." One can be placed under the closest scrutiny and all found will be right! NOTE: 1 Corinthians 4:3-4 Paul's concern was not a popular acceptance by those who heard him preach/teach. He did not seek applause or approval from men. He was not interested in self-justification. His sole concern was that God's examination would find him "sincere"!

Who is to practice discernment?

The Scriptures are clear in commanding all Christians to be "discerning" (Romans 12:2b; Colossians 3:1-3; John 7:24; 15:4 only those who discriminate can "abide" in Christ; Matthew 7:13ff; 1 John 2:18-19; 4:1; Revelation 2:2).

The BASIC RESULTS of the spiritual mindset

Proverbs 1:10-33

Within the context of Philippians 1:9, "discernment" means we will test, judge, approve/disapprove spiritual issues for the purpose of finding the right and doing it, finding the wrong and shunning it. The Book of Proverbs tells us that discernment practiced will bring about two basic results.

We will discern wickedness (Proverbs 1:10-19).

The focus is upon the reality of wickedness in the world. Evil cannot be ignored. It is too powerful; too invasive; too deceitful; too appealing. Failure to recognize that there is "wrong" brings only regret. Two points are stressed about the wicked:

1. Wickedness is always pleading for support (v. 10-14).

Proverbs 1:14 "throw in your lot with us." The invitations come from those least suspected as Satan's allies but the plea is to pollute the pure fellowship. The call may be sincere, generous, "loving," and appealing, but our response must be constantly, "No Thanks!" (Genesis 39:9b). It is better to choose a lonely path through life than one filled with companionship leading to "evil" (Proverbs 5:14; Matthew 10:37-38; Romans 16:17,18).

2. Wickedness always leads to peril (v. 15-19).

There will be "evil" (v. 16).

The Hebrew word means "wicked, injurious" and comes from a root word meaning the "breaking up of all that is desirable" (Phillips, 39). The corresponding Greek term refers to "corruption" of that which is good. A failure to discern brings injury and destruction.

There will be "deception" (v. 17).

The term "net" refers to the certain doom awaiting, but it is ignored. The warning is sounded, but they foolishly ignore it. Deception results when we refuse discernment. Those refusing to judge are on the path of self-destruction.

We will discern wisdom (Proverbs 1:20-33).

1. Wisdom begs people to follow (v. 20,21).

There is nothing secret or hidden. The instruction is available to all but not all will accept it. Contrary to the way "evil" spreads its poison, published through whispers in small groups, "wisdom" can be heard in the streets and gates.

2. Wisdom has specifics (v. 22,23).

Wisdom categorizes people! (v. 22).

It discerns the way some think and categorizes them in terms many object to today simple-minds, fools, haters of knowledge. Is such "wrong"? No, it is discernment.

Wisdom reproves! (v. 23).

True wisdom corrects those who follow the "wisdom" of this world (1 Corinthians 1:23-30; James 3:15). You cannot follow the wisdom of God and the wisdom of the world (2 Timothy 4:2-5).

Wisdom offends! (v. 24-25).

Even though urgently needed, wisdom's pleas are ignored and despised (v. 24- 25).

Wisdom ultimately triumphs (v. 26-30).

Those who reject wisdom will find ridicule (v. 26), desolation (v. 27a), destruction (v. 27b), distress (v. 27c), desperation (v. 28). The great tragedy is stated in v. 29 the Lord was the last priority in life!

Wisdom deserves practice (v. 31-33).

Those who fail to discern between right/wrong and those who strive to take a neutral position, should look closely at these verses. Discernment cannot be ignored without reaping tragedy (v. 31,32). Those who practice discernment will find blessings (v. 33). They will be safe from corruption because they revere God's Word and follow Truth. All others will remain "neutral" but will begin to suffer corruption ("evil") which eventually destroys!

The BASIC FOUNDATION for Spiritual Mindset

Proverbs 1:7-9

How can we make sure we are following the path of wisdom? How can we "discern" between right and wrong? (Exodus 20:20). The answer is simple:

Possess knowledge!

"Knowledge" refers to the revealed Word of God. This knowledge provides us with discipline ("instruction") and laws for life. This will restrict our beliefs, guide our practices, and limit our fellowship.

Regulate knowledge!

"Fear" refers to a reverent obedience. Modern man seeks to diminish the holy nature of God which strikes fear (Isaiah 6:1-5). The Lord must be enthroned in our hearts. Every thing we do must be authorized by God's Word. This "fear" leads us to follow Isaiah 30:21.

Respect authority!

"Hear" refers to accepting the instruction so it guides our lives. The other alternative is to "despise" and "scoff" at the instruction. Those who respect authority are "wise" and enjoy happiness. Those who despise authority are "fools" and suffer tragically.

Modern man is faced with a choice what kind of "wisdom" will he choose to direct his life? By what standard will his spiritual choices be measured? Moses was trained in the "wisdom of the Egyptians" (Acts 7:22), but he saw it as folly and chose the wisdom of God (Hebrews 11:26). This same choice is available to mankind today.

The story is told that Diogenes (Greek philosopher c. 320 B.C.) was once attempting to address a large gathering of people but no one paid attention to him. His discourse was on virtues that would strengthen society. Seeing that none were listening he stopped speaking and started singing a foolish song. As the crowd heard him singing they ceased doing everything and crowded closer to him. He exclaimed, "How much more is folly admired than wisdom!"

The situation has not changed over thousands of years. Mankind still holds a greater admiration for foolishness than for wisdom. Let us take heed to Proverbs and utilize discernment so we will find health, happiness, success, and life!

Works Cited

 

F.C. Cooke. The Bible Commentary, Volume IV. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1981.

F.B. Meyer. Devotional Commentary on PHILIPPIANS. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1979.

Phillips, John. Exploring Proverbs, Volume One. Neptune, NJ: Loizeaux, 1995.

A.T. Robertson. Paul's Joy in Christ: Studies in Philippians. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1980.

M.R. Vincent. Studies in the New Testament, II. MacDill AFB, FL: MacDonald Publishing Company, nd.