King James Version

What Does Romans 8:5 Mean?

Romans 8:5 in the King James Version says “For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the ... — study this verse from Romans chapter 8 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.

Romans 8:5 · KJV


Context

3

For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: for sin: or, by a sacrifice for sin

4

That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

5

For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.

6

For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. to be carnally: Gr. the minding of the flesh to be spiritually: Gr. the minding of the Spirit

7

Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. the carnal: Gr. the minding of the flesh


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh (hoi kata sarka phronousin ta tēs sarkos)—The verb phroneō means to set one's mind on, to be intent upon, to cherish certain thoughts and desires. This is not occasional sin but life-orientation. Those "after the flesh" are characterized by self-centered thinking, finding identity and satisfaction in created things rather than the Creator. Paul describes a comprehensive worldview shaped by rebellion.

But they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit—The parallel construction emphasizes the total contrast. Spirit-orientation means minds shaped by God's revealed truth, affections directed toward eternal realities, wills aligned with divine purposes. This is the renewed mind of 12:2, the mind of Christ mentioned in Philippians 2:5. The preposition kata ("after/according to") indicates conformity—we become like what we worship and pursue.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Stoicism emphasized right thinking (logos) as the path to virtue, but saw this as achievable through human reason. Paul's doctrine is radically different: the mind must be supernaturally renewed by the Spirit (12:2; Ephesians 4:23). True transformation begins not with moral effort but with regeneration that changes fundamental desires.

Reflection Questions

  1. What specific "things of the flesh" do you find your mind drifting toward most frequently?
  2. How does cultivating "the mind of the Spirit" through Scripture and prayer reshape daily priorities?
  3. What's the relationship between what we "mind" (think about) and what we ultimately become?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 16 words
τοῦ1 of 16

the things

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

γὰρ2 of 16

For

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

κατὰ3 of 16

after

G2596

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

σαρκὸς4 of 16

of the flesh

G4561

flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or

ὄντες5 of 16

they that are

G5607

being

τοῦ6 of 16

the things

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

τοῦ7 of 16

the things

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

σαρκὸς8 of 16

of the flesh

G4561

flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or

φρονοῦσιν9 of 16

do mind

G5426

to exercise the mind, i.e., entertain or have a sentiment or opinion; by implication, to be (mentally) disposed (more or less earnestly in a certain d

τοῦ10 of 16

the things

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ11 of 16

but

G1161

but, and, etc

κατὰ12 of 16

after

G2596

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

πνεύματος13 of 16

of the Spirit

G4151

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin

τοῦ14 of 16

the things

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

τοῦ15 of 16

the things

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πνεύματος16 of 16

of the Spirit

G4151

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Romans. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Romans 8:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Romans 8:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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