What Does Being of One Mind *Really* Mean?

The concept of being of one mind in Christianity is one that I continue to struggle with. Aren’t we all individuals? Doesn’t it seem kind of cultish at first glance, that we’re all supposed to think the same things?

complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Phil 2:2

This verse is part of a phrase. With verses that are part of a phrase, it is easy to take them out of context. How often do you see street preachers signs that say “For the wages of sin is DEATH” while leaving out the other part of the phrase? Making the same mistake with this verse will have the same effect.

(1) So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, (2) complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Phil 2:1–2

This whole chapter tells Christians to examine their motivations for that they do in life: Is it for purely selfish gain or for the benefit of others (and God)? It does not mention anything about intellectual conclusions derived from analysis but mentions behavior towards others many times. Moreover, this chapter itself is about ethics and doing good to others rather than sharing the same opinions. Therefore, this is not a…