The sermon titled “The Mind of Christ” draws from 1 Peter 3:8-22, where the theme of submission plays a central role in Christian life, echoing what Pastor Allen shared previously. The idea of submission is not simply an obligation, but a tool of love, both towards God and others, that mirrors Christ’s example. Peter’s plea to “abstain from fleshly lusts” (1 Pet 2:11-12) and to submit to every ordinance of man (1 Pet 2:13-17) reinforces that the Christian’s conduct should honor God, even among those who are not believers. Submission extends to all areas of life, including relationships with those in authority such as bosses or teachers (1 Pet 2:18-25). Peter reminds us that, like Jesus, we must endure suffering without sinning, as Jesus bore our sins to reconcile us with God. Jesus’ submission and obedience, even to the point of death, are the ultimate examples of love, calling us to do likewise (1 Pet 2:21).

In marriage, this principle also applies. Wives are called to submit to their husbands so that, even without words, their godly conduct can win over those who do not believe (1 Pet 3:1-6). Husbands, in turn, must honor and love their wives, submitting to God’s instruction for marriage (1 Pet 3:7). In this mutual submission, God’s love is revealed, making the relationship a testimony of Christ’s love to others.

Peter then speaks directly to the church, urging believers to be of one mind, the mind of Christ (1 Pet 3:8). This mind is characterized by humility, compassion, and a love that seeks the well-being of others over oneself (Phil 2:1-8). This love reflects Christ’s command to love one another (John 13:34-35), a command that identifies His disciples. Compassion, brotherly love, tenderheartedness, and courteousness are not merely suggestions but essential traits that set Christians apart in a world often driven by selfish ambition (1 Cor 13:4-7).

The call to not return evil for evil, but instead to bless those who wrong us (1 Pet 3:9), aligns with Jesus’ teachings in Luke 6:27-33, where He commands us to love our enemies and do good to those who hate us. This radical love goes beyond the natural human response and is made possible only through the power of the Holy Spirit (Gal 5:22). Peter himself, once prone to anger and violence as shown in John 18:10, was transformed by an encounter with the risen Christ and the empowering of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1). This transformation enabled him to instruct the early church to seek peace and turn away from evil (1 Pet 3:11).

Peter’s message is clear: to live with the mind of Christ is to live a life of submission, love, and humility, even when it is difficult. This life glorifies God and stands as a witness to the world. Submission, especially in the face of injustice or hardship, is not weakness, but strength found in Christ’s example and empowered by the Holy Spirit. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 2:12-16, believers have received the Spirit of God, not the spirit of the world, allowing them to understand and live out the things freely given by God. The natural mind cannot comprehend the things of God, but the spiritual person, having the mind of Christ, can.

This message was shared at Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville, delivered by Elder Victor Laird.

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