Topical Encyclopedia In the Christian theological context, the concept of perfection often refers to the state of being free from sin or moral flaw. However, the Bible presents a nuanced view of perfection, especially concerning the saints, or believers in Christ. While Christians are called to strive for holiness and maturity in their faith, the Scriptures make it clear that saints do not claim to have achieved perfection in this life.The Apostle Paul, a central figure in the New Testament, openly acknowledges his own imperfection. In Philippians 3:12 , he writes, "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been perfected, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." Here, Paul admits that he has not yet reached a state of perfection, but he continues to pursue it as his goal, emphasizing the ongoing nature of spiritual growth and sanctification. Similarly, the Apostle John addresses the reality of sin in the lives of believers. In 1 John 1:8 , he states, "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." This verse underscores the understanding that claiming sinlessness is self-deceptive and contrary to the truth. John further encourages believers to confess their sins, highlighting the continual need for God's grace and forgiveness (1 John 1:9). The Old Testament also reflects this theme. In Ecclesiastes 7:20 , it is written, "Surely there is no righteous man on earth who does good and never sins." This acknowledgment of human imperfection is consistent throughout Scripture, reinforcing the idea that even the most devout individuals fall short of absolute moral perfection. The doctrine of original sin, rooted in the fall of Adam and Eve, provides a theological basis for understanding human imperfection. According to Romans 5:12 , "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned." This passage explains that all humans inherit a sinful nature, which makes the attainment of perfection impossible in this earthly life. Despite this inherent imperfection, believers are called to pursue holiness and emulate the character of Christ. In Matthew 5:48 , Jesus instructs, "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." This call to perfection is understood as an aspiration towards spiritual maturity and completeness, rather than an expectation of sinless perfection. The tension between the call to holiness and the reality of human imperfection is reconciled through the work of Christ. Believers are justified by faith and clothed in the righteousness of Christ, as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:21 : "God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God." This imputed righteousness allows Christians to stand blameless before God, despite their ongoing struggle with sin. In summary, while the saints are called to pursue perfection, they do not claim to have achieved it in this life. The biblical narrative consistently acknowledges human imperfection and the need for divine grace, while encouraging believers to strive for spiritual growth and maturity in their walk with Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Job 9:20If I justify myself, my own mouth shall condemn me: if I say, I am perfect, it shall also prove me perverse. Torrey's Topical Textbook Philippians 3:12 Library On the Perfection of Patience. Faustus Claims that the Manich??ans and not the Catholics are ... The Great Misery of those who Lose the Saints' Rest. Note A. Holiness as Proprietorship. Faith in Perfection Fenelon -- the Saints Converse with God The Promises of the Law and the Gospel Reconciled. Sermon for Septuagesima Sunday Joy in the Holy Ghost. There are Three Things to be Noticed in the Actions of Our Life. . ... Resources How can heaven be perfect if all of our loved ones are not there? | GotQuestions.orgIs God perfect? | GotQuestions.org Why does Christ's righteousness need to be imputed to us? | GotQuestions.org Perfection: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Perfection: All Saints Have, in Christ Perfection: Ascribed to Nathanael Perfection: Ascribed to Zacharias and Elizabeth Perfection: Charity is the Bond of Perfection: God's Perfection the Standard of Perfection: Implies: Entire Devotedness Perfection: Implies: Purity and Holiness in Speech Perfection: Impossibility of Attaining To Perfection: Ministers Appointed to Lead Saints To Perfection: Saints Commanded to Aim At Perfection: Saints Follow After Perfection: The Church Shall Attain To Perfection: The Word of God Is: Designed to Lead Us To Perfection: The Word of God Is: The Rule of Perfection: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms |
    |