Romans 8:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Romans 8:5
5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.
Chapter Context
Romans 8 is a theological exposition chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of discipleship, grace, wisdom. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 57 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Christians in Rome navigated tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers under imperial watch.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-39: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it articulates the doctrines of justification, sanctification, and glorification. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Romans and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Romans 8:5
5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.
Analysis
For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh (hoi kata sarka phronousin ta tēs sarkos)—The verb phroneō means to set one's mind on, to be intent upon, to cherish certain thoughts and desires. This is not occasional sin but life-orientation. Those "after the flesh" are characterized by self-centered thinking, finding identity and satisfaction in created things rather than the Creator. Paul describes a comprehensive worldview shaped by rebellion.
But they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit—The parallel construction emphasizes the total contrast. Spirit-orientation means minds shaped by God's revealed truth, affections directed toward eternal realities, wills aligned with divine purposes. This is the renewed mind of 12:2, the mind of Christ mentioned in Philippians 2:5. The preposition kata ("after/according to") indicates conformity—we become like what we worship and pursue.
Historical Context
Ancient Stoicism emphasized right thinking (logos) as the path to virtue, but saw this as achievable through human reason. Paul's doctrine is radically different: the mind must be supernaturally renewed by the Spirit (12:2; Ephesians 4:23). True transformation begins not with moral effort but with regeneration that changes fundamental desires.
Reflection
- What specific "things of the flesh" do you find your mind drifting toward most frequently?
- How does cultivating "the mind of the Spirit" through Scripture and prayer reshape daily priorities?
- What's the relationship between what we "mind" (think about) and what we ultimately become?
Word Studies
- Spirit: πνεῦμα (Pneuma) G4151 - Spirit, wind, breath
Cross-References
- Spirit: Romans 8:9, John 3:6, 1 Corinthians 2:14, Ephesians 5:9
- Parallel theme: Mark 8:33, 1 Corinthians 15:48, 2 Corinthians 10:3, 2 Peter 2:10