"...complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.:
These four things are the expression of the encouragement that we have “in Christ.” These four things flow out of the love that we share in the Holy Spirit.
Be of the same mind – literally--"have the same thoughts." Christians are to think alike – we are to have the same mindset, the same perspective. And the reason why is because we have been united to Christ, and his attitude--his mindset—his way of thinking has become ours.
Notice that the second result flows from the second “if” – if there is any comfort from love--have the same love. And the third result flows from the third “if” – if there is any fellowship with the Spirit—then be united in your very souls – be harmonious (“of one accord”) because the one Holy Spirit indwells all of you.
And finally, if there is any affection and sympathy, be of one mind, and here again we have the word phroneo – "think the same thoughts".
If Christ has united you to himself, then you should think the same thoughts together. What does Paul mean by this?
Paul is endorsing a certain kind of “groupthink”! But it is important to understand what sort of groupthink!
Is he saying that we have to agree on every point of theology?
No, keep reading. What sort of thoughts should you think?
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