φρόνημα (phronēma)
phronēma
purpose
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun phronēma refers to the settled disposition or mindset that guides a person’s thoughts and purposes. It is not merely a fleeting idea, but the underlying orientation of the mind that shapes how one views the world and acts within it.
In the New Testament, this word appears only three times, all in Paul’s letter to the Romans. Paul contrasts the "mindset of the flesh" with the "mindset of the Spirit," showing that phronēma determines whether a person is hostile to God or aligned with Him (Romans 8:6-7). The Holy Spirit intercedes for believers according to this divine purpose, indicating that such a mindset is central to Christian life.
The term derives from the verb phroneō, meaning "to think" or "to have a mind." While related words focus on the act of thinking, phronēma emphasizes the content and direction of those thoughts. Translators often render it as "mindset," "disposition," or "purpose," capturing its weight as a foundational attitude rather than a single decision.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word phronēma describes the settled direction of your thoughts, not just a passing idea. It is the underlying mindset that shapes how you view the world and act within it. When Paul uses this term in Romans, he highlights a fundamental choice between two orientations: one rooted in human effort and another guided by the Holy Spirit.
Understanding this helps clarify why peace feels elusive when we rely on ourselves. The text notes that a flesh-focused mindset is hostile to God because it refuses His guidance. However, when your mind aligns with the Spirit, the result is life and peace. This alignment does not require perfection but a willing heart that seeks God’s direction.
Even in your deepest struggles, you are held by One who knows what is on the Spirit’s mind. He intercedes for you according to God’s will, ensuring that your purpose remains secure even when your thoughts feel confused. This assurance invites you to rest in His care rather than striving for control.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- mind3×
- mindset1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- φρόνημα4×
Key Verses
-
Romans 8:6
For the mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace;
This verse establishes the core contrast, showing that the mindset of the Spirit produces life and peace, while the flesh leads to death.
-
Romans 8:7
because the mind of the flesh is hostile toward God, for it is not subject to God’s law, neither indeed can it be.
Here the text explains why the flesh cannot please God: its mindset is inherently hostile and unwilling to submit to His law.
-
Romans 8:27
He who searches the hearts knows what is on the Spirit’s mind, because he makes intercession for the saints according to God.
This occurrence reveals that God understands the Spirit’s intent behind your prayers, ensuring your intercession aligns with His will.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does phronēma mean in the Bible?
How is phronēma different from nous?
Where does this word appear in the New Testament?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Romans 3 verses
For the mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace;
Romans 8:7because the mind of the flesh is hostile toward God, for it is not subject to God’s law, neither indeed can it be.
Romans 8:27He who searches the hearts knows what is on the Spirit’s mind, because he makes intercession for the saints according…