Topical Encyclopedia In the Christian life, the orientation of one's affections is of paramount importance. Scripture consistently exhorts believers to set their affections on heavenly things rather than earthly ones. This directive is rooted in the understanding that the things of this world are transient, while heavenly things are eternal and of true value.Biblical Exhortation The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Colossians, provides a clear mandate for believers regarding their affections: "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things" (Colossians 3:2). This verse underscores the necessity of focusing one's desires and thoughts on the divine and eternal rather than the temporal and fleeting. Heavenly Citizenship Believers are reminded that their true citizenship is in heaven. Paul writes to the Philippians, "But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ" (Philippians 3:20). This heavenly citizenship calls for a reorientation of affections, aligning them with the values and priorities of the kingdom of God. Treasures in Heaven Jesus Himself taught about the importance of storing up treasures in heaven. In the Sermon on the Mount, He instructs, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal" (Matthew 6:19-20). This teaching highlights the imperishable nature of heavenly treasures compared to the vulnerability of earthly possessions. Transformation of the Mind The transformation of the believer's mind is essential in setting affections on heavenly things. Romans 12:2 states, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This renewal enables believers to discern and pursue the will of God, which is inherently aligned with heavenly priorities. Love for God Above All The greatest commandment, as stated by Jesus, is to love God with all one's heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37). This commandment encapsulates the essence of setting affections on heavenly things, as it calls for a wholehearted devotion to God above all else. Eternal Perspective An eternal perspective is crucial for maintaining affections on heavenly things. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 4:18 , "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." This perspective encourages believers to look beyond the immediate and visible, focusing instead on the eternal realities promised by God. Conclusion The call to set affections on heavenly things is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, urging believers to prioritize the eternal over the temporal. By aligning their desires with the values of the kingdom of God, Christians are better equipped to live lives that reflect their heavenly citizenship and bring glory to God. Nave's Topical Index Colossians 3:1,2If you then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sits on the right hand of God. Nave's Topical Index Library What Use Heavenly Contemplation Makes of Consideration, the ... Directions How to Lead a Heavenly Life Upon Earth. The Importance of Leading a Heavenly Life Upon Earth. "Boast not Thyself of to Morrow, for Thou Knowest not what a Day ... The Sermon on the Mount. Heavenly Contemplation Assisted by Sensible Objects, and Guarded ... The Tenth Commandment How God is Jealous of Us. Thoughts Upon Our Call and Election. Of the Inward Life Resources What is the flesh? | GotQuestions.orgSummaries of Christian theology brought to you by GotQuestions.org! | GotQuestions.org What is the difference between envy and jealousy, biblically speaking? | GotQuestions.org Affections: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Affections of Saints, Supremely Set on God Affections of the Wicked, are Unnatural and Perverted Affections of the Wicked, not Sincerely Set on God Affections: Blessedness of Making God the Object of Affections: Carnal Affections Crucified in Saints Affections: Carnal, should be Mortified Affections: Christ Claims the First Place In Affections: Enkindled by Communion With Christ Affections: False Teachers Seek to Captivate Affections: should be Set Upon Heavenly Things Affections: should be Set Upon the Commandments of God Affections: should be Set Upon the House and Worship of God Affections: should be Set Upon the People of God Affections: should be Supremely Set Upon God Affections: should be Zealously Engaged for God Affections: should not Grow Cold The Affections of Saints, Supremely Set on God The Affections of the Wicked, are Unnatural and Perverted The Affections of the Wicked, not Sincerely Set on God The Affections: Blessedness of Making God the Object of The Affections: Carnal Affections Crucified in Saints The Affections: Carnal Affections should be Mortified The Affections: Christ Claims the First Place In The Affections: Enkindled by Communion With Christ The Affections: False Teachers Seek to Captivate The Affections: should be Set: Upon Heavenly Things The Affections: should be Set: Upon the Commandments of God The Affections: should be Set: Upon the House and Worship of God The Affections: should be Set: Upon the People of God The Affections: should be Supremely Set Upon God The Affections: should be Zealously Engaged for God The Affections: should not Grow Cold Related Terms Sanctification (13 Occurrences) |
    |