Mind Matters: φρονέω (Strong’s G5426: phroneo) Shapes Biblical Thinking

Strong’s G5426: A primary verb meaning to exercise the mind, to think, to be mentally disposed in a certain way. Derived from φρήν (mind), it encompasses the concept of mindset, opinion, and attitude, particularly significant in moral and spiritual contexts.

U- Unveiling the Word

Φρονέω represents more than mere thinking—it embodies a comprehensive mental disposition that shapes behavior and attitude. In New Testament usage, it carries profound theological weight, describing the believer’s mindset that should align with Christ’s. This word is particularly significant in Pauline literature, where it often describes the Christian’s mental orientation toward spiritual matters. Early church fathers frequently employed this term to discuss spiritual transformation and renewal of the mind. Today, it remains relevant in discussions of Christian discipleship, emphasizing the importance of developing a Christ-centered worldview that influences both thought and action.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: φρονέω, phroneo, fron-eh’-o
• Pronunciation Guide: frohn-EH-oh (where ‘oh’ is pronounced as in “go”)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Root word: φρήν (phrēn) – mind, understanding, thought
• Verbal suffix: -έω (-eō) – indicates ongoing action or state
• Function: Forms a verb expressing mental activity or disposition

D – Defining Meanings

• To think, to have in mind
• To be minded in a certain way
• To exercise the mind, to have an opinion
• To direct one’s mind to something

For compound words: Not applicable as φρονέω is not a compound word

Translation Options:

1. “To think” – Best captures the basic cognitive aspect
2. “To be minded” – Reflects the dispositional nature
3. “To set one’s mind on” – Emphasizes the deliberate orientation of thought

E – Exploring Similar Words

• νοέω (noeō, no-eh’-o) – to perceive with the mind, think about
  See G3539
• λογίζομαι (logizomai, log-id’-zom-ahee) – to reason, consider, count
  See G3049
• διανοέομαι (dianoeomai, dee-an-o-eh’-om-ahee) – to think through, consider carefully
  See G1260

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, φρονέω exhibits these morphological features:

• Tense: Present, Future, Aorist
• Voice: Active, Passive
• Mood: Indicative, Subjunctive, Imperative
• Person: First, Second, Third
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Aspect: Primarily imperfective in present tense

The word typically appears in the present tense, emphasizing ongoing mental activity. For example:

• I think (φρονῶ)
• You think (φρονεῖς)
• They think (φρονοῦσι)

Cross-references:

• φρόνημα (noun) – mindset, what one has in mind
• φρόνησις (noun) – understanding, practical wisdom

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The major lexicons provide rich insight into φρονέω’s semantic range. BDAG emphasizes its connection to practical wisdom and moral thinking, while Thayer’s highlights its use in expressing opinion or judgment. LSJ traces its classical usage in expressing attitude and disposition. Vine’s notes its frequent metaphorical application to spiritual matters. Strong’s connects it to the concept of moral interest and reflection. LEH emphasizes its use in the Septuagint for wisdom literature. Moulton and Milligan’s papyri findings show its common usage in everyday contexts of opinion and attitude. Together, these sources paint a picture of a word that encompasses not just intellectual activity but moral and spiritual disposition.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Matthew 16:23 “But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest [φρονεῖς] not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.”

Additional References:
Romans 8:5
Philippians 2:5
Colossians 3:2
Romans 12:3
Philippians 3:19

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Φρονέω represents a crucial concept in biblical theology, encompassing not just mental activity but the entire orientation of one’s mind and life. It appears prominently in passages calling believers to adopt Christ’s mindset and to focus their thoughts on heavenly things. This word reminds us that the gospel transforms not only our status before God but our entire way of thinking. The good news of King Jesus includes the promise that through His Spirit, we can develop a mindset aligned with His purposes, leading to spiritual growth and effective witness in the world.

D – Did You Know?

1. Φρονέω appears most frequently in Paul’s letters, particularly in Philippians
2. The word is related to the modern English term “phrenology” (though that pseudoscience misused the concept)
3. In ancient Greek medicine, φρήν (the root of φρονέω) was thought to be located in the diaphragm, not the brain

Strong’s G5426: A primary verb meaning to exercise the mind, to think, to be mentally disposed in a certain way. Derived from φρήν (mind), it encompasses the concept of mindset, opinion, and attitude, particularly significant in moral and spiritual contexts.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: mindset, thinking, attitude, wisdom, disposition, mental-state, spiritual-mindedness, transformation, discipleship, biblical-psychology​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​