PLUS
SIXTEEN AREAS OF OUR PERFECTION
Here are the A, B, Cs of the perfection God provides for us and expects us to experience in this present world.
Atonement Perfection (the perfection obtained for us through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ).
Biblical Perfection (the perfection described, offered and commanded in the Bible).
Christian Perfection (the perfection of heart and love available to those who are walking by faith).
So, for those who are, "Not Perfect, Just Forgiven," He is able.
MY FB NOTE...
If you are interested in more information concerning this subject, check out my FB NOTE, Believer's Perfection. It was added May 11, 2010.
BELIEVER'S PERFECTION
GOD PERFECTS HIS CHILDREN IN THIS PRESENT EVIL WORLD
A. Believer's Perfection
When it comes to the subject of "Believer’s Perfection" we need more "Bible" and less "Babel," we need to get the "Historical Perspective," not the "Hysterical Prejudice" promoted by "sinning religionists." Since this is the most controversial point with most people, I will give a little more time and space to Atonement Perfection, Biblical Perfection, Christian Perfection.
1) Believer’s Perfection is not Absolute Perfection.
Only God is Absolutely Perfect in everything that is good. Absolute Perfection is inherent and without measure. Nothing can be added or improved. God is Absolutely Perfect in every every way.
2) Believer’s Perfection is not Angelic Perfection.
The angels were created in beauty, wisdom and power. They were without flaw. They were given the power of free will, and then one third of the angels chose to rebel against God. The angels that sinned lost their exalted state, but the angels that remained loyal continued to enjoy a level of perfection that humans cannot know in this present life.
3) Believer’s Perfection is not Adamic Perfection.
Adam was created without sin or flaw. He was perfect, yet he chose to rebel against God and lost his primitive perfection. Adam’s perfect intellect and health and wisdom and innocence is not restored to believers in this life.
4) Believer’s Perfection is Atonement Perfection, Biblical Perfection, Christian Perfection.
a) Atonement Perfection
Christ has atoned for our sins and made us partakers of Divine nature (2 Pe. 1:4). By God’s grace, a believer is able to put off the old, sinful nature and put on the new, divine nature of God (Ep. 4:22-24; Co. 3:8-9). God’s great salvation conforms us to the image of Christ (Ro. 8:29). This perfection is often called, "Christian Perfection." It could just as easily be called, "Believer’s Perfection." Though these names are extra Biblical (not found in the Bible), the concept is basic Christianity. Believer’s Perfection is not to be confused with "legalism," "externalism," "self righteousness," or "salvation by works." Believer’s Perfection is salvation by grace (He. 13:21; 1 Pe 5:10).
When the message of Christ’s salvation came into the world, it was clear to all who received it in its purity, that God sent His Son to save us from our sins (Mt. 2:21) and to "REDEEM US FROM ALL INIQUITY" and "PURIFY TO HIMSELF A DISTINCTIVE PEOPLE" who are "ZEALOUS OF GOOD WORKS" (Titus 2:14). "Sinning Christianity" is a false "gospel" popularized by those who love darkness more than light (Jn. 3:19-21).
b) Biblical Perfection
The word, "perfection" is repugnant to those who believe in sinning religion. One of their favorite "extra Biblical verses" is, "I am not perfect, just forgiven." However, the word "perfect" and the concept of Believer’s Perfection is found in the Bible. Contrary to popular belief, "Believer’s Perfection" is not total perfection in everything, but it is limited by God’s design. Let me illustrate. We use the word "perfect" in a limited way in our imperfect world. When a person gives all of the right answers to a test, he has a "perfect score." This does not mean that he knows everything about that subject, it simply means that he was perfect in the test. A person who scores 300 in a bowling game has bowled a perfect game. This does not mean that he will ever bowl 300 again and it does not mean that he will ever bat 1000 in a baseball game. But it does mean that he was perfect in that one bowling game. Believers are called to be "perfect" in specific areas of life. Attaining to and living in Believer’s Perfection is not making a claim to total perfection. It is simply acknowledging that, "where sin abounded, grace did much more abound" (Ro. 5:20), that "we are more than conquerors through Christ Who loved us" (Ro. 8:37), "God…always causes us to triumph in Christ" (2 Co. 2:14), we, "walk in the Spirit and do not fulfill the lust of the flesh" (Ga. 5:16), "we keep God’s commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight" (1 Jn. 3:22), "greater is He that is in [me] than he that is in the world" (1 Jn. 4:4), "we keep God’s commandments, and His commandments are not burdensome" (1 Jn. 5:3). Believing and claiming Believer’s Perfection is not a display of self-righteousness; it is a declaration of God’s victory over sin, Satan and self.
c) Christian Perfection
The perfection to which believers are called has been referred to as "Christian Perfection" because it is available to Chrisitans, only by faith. This is the term that John Wesley used concerning this state of grace.
This Christian Perfection is primarily a perfection of quality, rather than a perfection of quantity. When the Bible refers to being, "perfect in love," it does not mean that we have an infinite and independent love. It means that we allow the love of God to "FILL" our hearts. A jar of ocean water is of the same quality as that found in the immensity of the ocean, but it is a limited quantity of the same water.
We understand that Believer's Perfection was provided in the Atonement, revealed in the Bible and is the standard of the Christian life. Though unlimited at its source (God), this perfection is limited to the capacity of the surrendered human heart. With this in mind we should have no problem using the word, "perfect" or "perfection." However, there are those who choose to impose earthly wisdom rather than accept Divine revelation concerning Believer’s Perfection.
Sometimes the idea of "full grown" is communicated when some of these words are used. Therefore, people mistakenly think that we can or should use the word, "mature" instead of "perfect." Do we really think Jesus told us to be "mature, even as our heavenly Father is mature"? OBVIOUSLY NOT. The word "perfect" is the best word that can be used in many of these passages.
B. Perfection In The Old Testament
The following are the references (and initials) of some of my sources; (S) Strong, (T) Thayer, (ISBE) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, (V) Vine, (Z) Zodhiates, (TWOT) Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament, (BDB) Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Definitions, (K&D) Keil and Delitzsch Commentary on the Old Testament. I designate my own observations as, (DLG notes…). My notes (DLG notes…) are not simply personal opinions, but are based on my studies and experiences of intense Christian ministry and study over the last 40 plus years, beginning with four years of Bible College training, resulting in a degree in Theology (Th.B.). As a Pastor/Teacher I have sought to understand the Bible as accurately as possible, so that I might present all of my people perfect (Co. 1:28-29), and I have instructed hundreds of people for work in the ministry, including dozens of full time workers. My thoughts are based on the Scriptures, aided by the work of experts in linguistics, history and theology. My teachings are orthodox, in that they are shared by millions of other believers throughout Christian and Jewish history and around the world.
There are several Hebrew words that are translated as "perfect" in English and designated by these Strong’s numbers; 8549, 8003, 4357, 1585, 8535 Job, 8552 (1870?) Job, 1584, 8503, 3559, 7965, 7999, 3632, 3634. A study of these words will be helpful in understanding the use of the word, "perfect." I only mention one of these words, which is used approximately 100 times.
S(trong’s) 8549
S… taw-meem’ From H8552; entire (literally, figuratively or morally); also (as noun) integrity, truth: – without blemish, complete, full, perfect, sincerely (-ity), sound, without spot, undefiled, upright (-ly), whole.
BDB… 1) complete, whole, entire, sound; 1a) complete, whole, entire; 1b) whole, sound, healthful; 1c) complete, entire (of time); 1d) sound, wholesome, unimpaired, innocent, having integrity; 1e) what is complete or entirely in accord with truth and fact (neuter adjective/substantive)
Z… It has the meaning of, entire, sound, whole, without blemish, complete, perfect, faultless, upright in conduct, innocent, simple, honest and sincere.
DLG notes… TAMIM, is used around 100 times. It is often translated as "without blemish" and associated with the required perfection of a sacrificial animal. This gives us insight into God’s expectation for moral perfection. Jesus met this standard as the Lamb of God and we are raised to this level as God’s flock.
1) Genesis 6:9 These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect (8549) in his generations, and Noah walked with God.
DLG notes… Noah was a blameless man in his generation. We are responsible for our own time and place. We are not obligated to walk in the light that other people have. Based on his total commitment to God, Noah walked with God, that is, Noah maintained an ongoing and progressive relationship with God.
2) Genesis 17:1 And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect (8549).
DLG notes… Abram (Abraham) had been a follower of God since his youth. He had built altars and worshipped God throughout his travels. Occasionally he had allowed doubt and fear to turn him from his course. He had also resorted to the flesh when he took Hagar as a concubine, rather than trust God to provide him and Sara their promised son. There is no record of God talking to Abram for the 13 years following his sexual intercourse with Hagar. When God did speak to Abram again, He called Abram to walk (live) before Him, and to be perfect, blameless.
3) Deuteronomy 18:13 Thou shalt be perfect (8549) with the LORD thy God.
DLG notes… Israel’s worship was to be undefiled and unmixed with the practices of the pagans. This was a reasonable and reachable perfection God required of them and it is a reasonable and reachable perfection God requires of us. We can worship God in the beauty of holiness (Ps. 96:9) and we can worship God in spirit and in truth (Jn. 4:24).
4) 1 Kings 8:61 Let your heart therefore be perfect (8003) with the LORD our God, to walk in his statutes, and to keep his commandments, as at this day.
DLG notes… Solomon directed Israel to be in a perfect relationship with God.
K&D… "Let your heart be wholly, undividedly devoted to the Lord".
TWOT… "The general meaning behind the root sh-l-m is of completion and fulfillment— of entering into a state of wholeness and unity, a restored relationship".
DLG notes…The Hebrew word conveys the idea of peace and well-being. This verse tells us that we can be at peace and have undivided devotion to the Lord, that is, we can have our hearts "perfect" before the Lord, demonstrated by walking in God’s statutes and keeping God’s commands.
5) 1 Kings 11:4 For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect (8003) with the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father.
DLG notes… Solomon, in his fifties, having taken a great number of wives and concubines, had been influenced to turn his heart toward other gods. He even built pagan temples for these foreign women and he worshiped at their altars. Though Solomon had turned from God, he had not apostatized finally from God. Final apostasy is turning from God without the possibility of ever returning to God. Final apostasy is the result of moving away from God and hardening one’s heart. However, a person can die in his sins and be irretrievably cut off from God at any point in time.
Proverbs 29:1 He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.
There is no guarantee to anyone that he will not fall away finally. As God told Adam,
Genesis 2:17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.
Here was a case where it only took one sin to separate a man from God; actually, one sin separated an entire race from God. There is not one word in the entire Bible that changes this first principle. Remember,
Ezekiel 18:4 Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
As soon as we sin, we are dead to God.
James 1:15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
Contrary to the teachings of "sinning religion," it only takes one sin to separate us from God. This is why God tells us not to sin even one time (Jn. 5:14; 1 Jn. 2:1; 1 Co. 15:34).
It is interesting to note that God refers to Solomon’s imperfect heart. Whenever God is not the supreme, the only focus of our affection, worship and service, then our hearts are not perfect toward God. There is only one standard for "perfect" and that is 100%, complete, whole, total. As the Scripture says,
Mark 12:30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.
Loving God with the whole heart is not a work of the flesh; it is a work of God’s grace. It is a dangerous thing to refer to the gracious work of God in us, as the works of the flesh or the work of Satan.
1 Timothy 1:5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
The aim or result of the commandment is to bring us to perfection in love, purity, conscience and faith. The Bible says,
Romans 5:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
1 Thessalonians 4:7-8 7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness. 8 He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his Holy Spirit.
6) 1 Kings 15:14 But the high places were not removed: nevertheless Asa’s heart was perfect (8003) with the LORD all his days.
DLG notes… God requires a perfect heart. When we do our best, the end results are not always consistent with our intentions. When God does His best, the end result does not always meet God’s standard, because He allows humans to make eternal choices. God judges us according to our heart’s condition, not on the success of a venture.
7) Job 1:1, 8; 2:3 1:1 There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect (8535) and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil. 8 And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect (8535) and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? 2:3 And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect (8535) and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause.
DLG notes… Job actually existed in history, and God considered Job to be "perfect" and "upright." God called Job "perfect and upright" three times in this passage. The first time was in the introduction to the book itself (1:1), the second time was in God’s first address to Satan, concerning Job (1:8) and the third time was in God’s second address to Satan (2:3), after Satan had taken Job’s wealth and family.
8 ) Psalm 37:37 Mark the perfect (8535) man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.
9) Psalm 101:2 I will behave myself wisely in a perfect (8549) way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.
DLG notes… The writer determined to walk within his own home, his own family, his closest and most intimate relatives, with a perfect heart, a blameless heart. In the next verses he tells us some of the principles required for walking with a perfect heart.
10) Psalm 101:6 Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect (8549) way, he shall serve me.
DLG notes… Keeping good company is essential to living a blameless life. Remember that Paul said, "Bad company corrupts good morals."
11) Proverbs 2:21 For the upright shall dwell in the land, and the perfect (8549) shall remain in it.
12) Proverbs 11:5 The righteousness of the perfect (8549) shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.
DLG notes… This passage demonstrates that Biblical "perfection" is related to moral rectitude. The "perfect" are those who are righteous (blameless) and live righteously (blamelessly). (Biblical Christianity teaches that a person is righteous when he is in a state of saving grace.) The opposite of "perfect" in this passage is "wicked," as the opposite of "righteousness" is "wickedness." Righteousness provides stability to life. It is possible to be "perfect" (blameless) before God. A person is only blameworthy when he is "guilty" or responsible for disobedience to God’s requirements. God does not require anything from us that we are unable to give, by His grace. A ruler who requires more of his subjects than they can give is a cruel tyrant. Those who teach that God requires more than we can give are trying to justify their own unwillingness to obey God. Remember the old saying, "With God’s calling comes God’s enabling."
C. Perfection In The New Testament
1) Four New Testament Words
The following are four of the main Greek words that are translated as "perfect" in the KJV. I will give the "Strong’s" reference number to the Greek words, which are translated as "perfect" and then I will give definitions given by Strong (S), Thayer (T), Vine (V), Robertson (R) and Zodhiates (Z). These Greek words are not necessarily interchangeable. I am simply pointing out that the translation of the Greek words into "perfect" is correct. For a person to argue against Believer’s Perfection is to argue against the revealed word of God.
a) Concerning 5046 and related words.
(S) teleios complete (in various applications of labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.)
(T) 1) brought to its end, finished 2) wanting nothing necessary to completeness 3) perfect 4) that which is perfect 4a) consummate human integrity and virtue 4b) of men 4b1) full grown, adult, of full age, mature
(R) Perfect (teleioi). The word comes from telos, end, goal, limit.
(Z) Finished, that which has reached its end, term, limit; hence, complete, full, wanting in nothing.
DLG… This is what the word, "perfect" (5046) means in the passages where the Greek word, "teleios" is used. Complete, finished, wanting nothing necessary to completeness, full grown, end, goal and limit. This is the meaning of the word "perfect."
b) Concerning 2675 and related words.
(S) katartizō From G2596 and a derivative of G739; to complete thoroughly, that is, repair (literally or figuratively) or adjust: – fit, frame, mend, (make) perfect (-ly join together), prepare, restore.
(T) 1) to render, i.e. to fit, sound, complete 1a) to mend (what has been broken or rent), to repair 1a1) to complete 1b) to fit out, equip, put in order, arrange, adjust 1b1) to fit or frame for one’s self, prepare 1c) ethically: to strengthen, perfect, complete, make one what he ought to be
(V) The same word as at Mat_4:21, where it is used of adjusting or mending nets. Its secondary meaning is to furnish completely, equip; hence to perfect.
c) Concerning 199 and related words.
(S) 199 akribōs Adverb from the same as 196; exactly: – circumspectly, diligently, perfect (-ly).
(T) 1) exactly, accurately, diligently
(V) The verb means to follow closely, and hence to trace accurately. The word occurs frequently in medical writings,
d) Concerning 2005 and related words.
(S) epiteleō From G1909 and G5055; to fulfill further (or completely), that is, execute; by implication to terminate, undergo: – accomplish, do, finish, (make) (perfect), perform (X -ance).
(T) 1) to bring to an end, accomplish, perfect, execute, complete 1a) to take upon one’s self 1b) to make an end for one’s self 1b1) to leave off 2) to appoint to, impose upon.
This glance at the Greek words demonstrates that the real problem is not with the word "perfect." The problem, which "sinning religion" has with the Bible is the fact that God delivers from all sin in this present evil age. If we substitute words like, "complete," or "finished," or "fulfilled" or "thorough" for the word "perfect," we still have the doctrine of total deliverance from all sin in this present evil age. But we must not exchange the word of God for a watered down and powerless faith.
It has been the work of Satan to prejudice people against God’s vocabulary. God chose the words "saved," "converted," "born again," "entirely sanctified," "holy," "righteous," "pure" and "perfect." (YES, I know that the Bible was written in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek, but the words in the original languages translate to these English words.) If Satan can convince people to reject God’s chosen words, then he can keep them from ever coming to the knowledge of the truth. There are people who accept the words, "saved," "converted" and "born again," however, they reject the possibility that anyone can be "entirely sanctified," "holy," "righteous," "pure" or "perfect" in this life. But the same Bible that reveals God’s power to forgive, declares God’s power to make us holy. The argument against holiness of heart and life is an argument based on human theology and not based on Biblical revelation. If you are not careful, you will mistake human wisdom for Divine revelation.
2) Believer’s Perfection Is New Testament Truth
I will quote a few verses to introduce this subject and then I will give more than a dozen Biblical sub-topics addressing Christian perfection. Remember, this is an overview. The Bible says much, much more about this subject than does this little article.
a) 2 Corinthians 13:11 Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect (2675), be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.
b) Colossians 1:28-29 28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect (5046) in Christ Jesus: 29 Whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
c) Colossians 4:12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect (5046) and complete in all the will of God.
d) Hebrews 13:20-21 20 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, 21 Make you perfect (2675) in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
e) 1 Peter 5:10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect (2675), establish, strengthen, settle you.
3) Sixteen Areas Of Believer’s Perfection
a) Perfect In Love
Matthew 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect (5046), even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect (5046).
Colossians 3:14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness (5047).
1 John 2:5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected (5048): hereby know we that we are in him.
1 John 4:12 No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected (5048) in us.
1 John 4:17 Herein is our love made perfect (5048), that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.
1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect (5048) love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not madeperfect (5048) in love.
b) Perfect In Mercy
Luke 6:36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is only reasonable that we are exercising perfect mercy when WE ARE AS MERCIFUL, AS OUR HEAVENLY FATHER IS MERCIFUL.
c) Perfect In Holiness
2 Corinthians 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting (2005) holiness in the fear of God.
Ephesians 1:4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, WE WERE CHOSEN TO BE HOLY AND WITHOUT BLAME, and this is PERFECT HOLINESS.
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, GOD PROMISES TO SANCTIFY (PURIFY) BELIEVERS WHOLLY, COMPLETELY, ENTIRELY, THROUGH AND THROUGH. THIS IS PERFECT CLEANSING.
Titus 2:12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is self evident that PERFECT HOLINESS IS THE RESULT OF "DENYING UNGODLINESS AND WORLDLY LUST" AND "LIVING SOBERLY, RIGHTEOUSLY, AND GODLY IN THIS PRESENT WORLD."
1 Peter 1:15-16 15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; 16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is self evident that being holy, as God is holy and being holy, in ALL MANNER OF BEHAVIOR IS PERFECT HOLINESS.
1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be more perfectly cleansed from sin, than to be CLEANSED FROM ALL SIN.
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be more perfectly cleansed from unrighteousness, than to be CLEANSED FROM ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS.
d) Perfect In Righteousness
1 John 3:7 Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be any more righteous than GOD IS RIGHTEOUS.
e) Perfect In Purity
1 John 3:3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be any more pure than GOD IS PURE.
f) Perfect In Conscience
Acts 24:16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offense toward God, and toward men.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, a person’s conscience cannot be anymore perfect than BEING VOID OF OFFENSE TOWARD GOD AND MEN.
g) Perfect In Christ Likeness
Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be any more perfect than to be CONFORMED TO THE IMAGE OF JESUS.
h) Perfect In Christian Walk
1 John 2:6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to behave or live our lives any more perfectly than WALKING AS CHRIST WALKED.
i) Perfect In Obedient Thought
2 Corinthians 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to have a more perfect thinking pattern than to BRING EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE TO THE OBEDIENCE OF CHRIST.
j) Perfect In Spiritual Mindedness
Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to have a more perfect mind than to HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST.
Philippians 3:15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
k) Perfect In Forgiving Others
Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to forgive more perfectly than FORGIVING EACH OTHER AS GOD FORGIVES US.
l) Perfect In Unity
John 17:22-23 22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: 23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect (5048) in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
m) Perfect In Consistent Service
1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be more consistent in service to God than being STEADFAST, UNMOVABLE, ALWAYS ABOUNDING IN THE WORK OF THE LORD.
n) Perfect In Christian Graces And Growth
Hebrews 6:1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection (5047); not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
o) Perfect In The Will Of God
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect (5046), will of God.
p) Perfect Deliverance
Hebrews 7:25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be saved more perfectly than to be SAVED TO THE UTTERMOST.
SUMMARY
God calls us to perfection.
God equips us for perfection.
God has perfected others.
To deny that we can live a holy life, which is believer’s perfection, is to deny God.
A. Believer's Perfection
When it comes to the subject of "Believer’s Perfection" we need more "Bible" and less "Babel," we need to get the "Historical Perspective," not the "Hysterical Prejudice" promoted by "sinning religionists." Since this is the most controversial point with most people, I will give a little more time and space to Atonement Perfection, Biblical Perfection, Christian Perfection.
1) Believer’s Perfection is not Absolute Perfection.
Only God is Absolutely Perfect in everything that is good. Absolute Perfection is inherent and without measure. Nothing can be added or improved. God is Absolutely Perfect in every every way.
2) Believer’s Perfection is not Angelic Perfection.
The angels were created in beauty, wisdom and power. They were without flaw. They were given the power of free will, and then one third of the angels chose to rebel against God. The angels that sinned lost their exalted state, but the angels that remained loyal continued to enjoy a level of perfection that humans cannot know in this present life.
3) Believer’s Perfection is not Adamic Perfection.
Adam was created without sin or flaw. He was perfect, yet he chose to rebel against God and lost his primitive perfection. Adam’s perfect intellect and health and wisdom and innocence is not restored to believers in this life.
4) Believer’s Perfection is Atonement Perfection, Biblical Perfection, Christian Perfection.
a) Atonement Perfection
Christ has atoned for our sins and made us partakers of Divine nature (2 Pe. 1:4). By God’s grace, a believer is able to put off the old, sinful nature and put on the new, divine nature of God (Ep. 4:22-24; Co. 3:8-9). God’s great salvation conforms us to the image of Christ (Ro. 8:29). This perfection is often called, "Christian Perfection." It could just as easily be called, "Believer’s Perfection." Though these names are extra Biblical (not found in the Bible), the concept is basic Christianity. Believer’s Perfection is not to be confused with "legalism," "externalism," "self righteousness," or "salvation by works." Believer’s Perfection is salvation by grace (He. 13:21; 1 Pe 5:10).
When the message of Christ’s salvation came into the world, it was clear to all who received it in its purity, that God sent His Son to save us from our sins (Mt. 2:21) and to "REDEEM US FROM ALL INIQUITY" and "PURIFY TO HIMSELF A DISTINCTIVE PEOPLE" who are "ZEALOUS OF GOOD WORKS" (Titus 2:14). "Sinning Christianity" is a false "gospel" popularized by those who love darkness more than light (Jn. 3:19-21).
b) Biblical Perfection
The word, "perfection" is repugnant to those who believe in sinning religion. One of their favorite "extra Biblical verses" is, "I am not perfect, just forgiven." However, the word "perfect" and the concept of Believer’s Perfection is found in the Bible. Contrary to popular belief, "Believer’s Perfection" is not total perfection in everything, but it is limited by God’s design. Let me illustrate. We use the word "perfect" in a limited way in our imperfect world. When a person gives all of the right answers to a test, he has a "perfect score." This does not mean that he knows everything about that subject, it simply means that he was perfect in the test. A person who scores 300 in a bowling game has bowled a perfect game. This does not mean that he will ever bowl 300 again and it does not mean that he will ever bat 1000 in a baseball game. But it does mean that he was perfect in that one bowling game. Believers are called to be "perfect" in specific areas of life. Attaining to and living in Believer’s Perfection is not making a claim to total perfection. It is simply acknowledging that, "where sin abounded, grace did much more abound" (Ro. 5:20), that "we are more than conquerors through Christ Who loved us" (Ro. 8:37), "God…always causes us to triumph in Christ" (2 Co. 2:14), we, "walk in the Spirit and do not fulfill the lust of the flesh" (Ga. 5:16), "we keep God’s commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight" (1 Jn. 3:22), "greater is He that is in [me] than he that is in the world" (1 Jn. 4:4), "we keep God’s commandments, and His commandments are not burdensome" (1 Jn. 5:3). Believing and claiming Believer’s Perfection is not a display of self-righteousness; it is a declaration of God’s victory over sin, Satan and self.
c) Christian Perfection
The perfection to which believers are called has been referred to as "Christian Perfection" because it is available to Chrisitans, only by faith. This is the term that John Wesley used concerning this state of grace.
This Christian Perfection is primarily a perfection of quality, rather than a perfection of quantity. When the Bible refers to being, "perfect in love," it does not mean that we have an infinite and independent love. It means that we allow the love of God to "FILL" our hearts. A jar of ocean water is of the same quality as that found in the immensity of the ocean, but it is a limited quantity of the same water.
We understand that Believer's Perfection was provided in the Atonement, revealed in the Bible and is the standard of the Christian life. Though unlimited at its source (God), this perfection is limited to the capacity of the surrendered human heart. With this in mind we should have no problem using the word, "perfect" or "perfection." However, there are those who choose to impose earthly wisdom rather than accept Divine revelation concerning Believer’s Perfection.
Sometimes the idea of "full grown" is communicated when some of these words are used. Therefore, people mistakenly think that we can or should use the word, "mature" instead of "perfect." Do we really think Jesus told us to be "mature, even as our heavenly Father is mature"? OBVIOUSLY NOT. The word "perfect" is the best word that can be used in many of these passages.
B. Perfection In The Old Testament
The following are the references (and initials) of some of my sources; (S) Strong, (T) Thayer, (ISBE) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, (V) Vine, (Z) Zodhiates, (TWOT) Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament, (BDB) Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Definitions, (K&D) Keil and Delitzsch Commentary on the Old Testament. I designate my own observations as, (DLG notes…). My notes (DLG notes…) are not simply personal opinions, but are based on my studies and experiences of intense Christian ministry and study over the last 40 plus years, beginning with four years of Bible College training, resulting in a degree in Theology (Th.B.). As a Pastor/Teacher I have sought to understand the Bible as accurately as possible, so that I might present all of my people perfect (Co. 1:28-29), and I have instructed hundreds of people for work in the ministry, including dozens of full time workers. My thoughts are based on the Scriptures, aided by the work of experts in linguistics, history and theology. My teachings are orthodox, in that they are shared by millions of other believers throughout Christian and Jewish history and around the world.
There are several Hebrew words that are translated as "perfect" in English and designated by these Strong’s numbers; 8549, 8003, 4357, 1585, 8535 Job, 8552 (1870?) Job, 1584, 8503, 3559, 7965, 7999, 3632, 3634. A study of these words will be helpful in understanding the use of the word, "perfect." I only mention one of these words, which is used approximately 100 times.
S(trong’s) 8549
S… taw-meem’ From H8552; entire (literally, figuratively or morally); also (as noun) integrity, truth: – without blemish, complete, full, perfect, sincerely (-ity), sound, without spot, undefiled, upright (-ly), whole.
BDB… 1) complete, whole, entire, sound; 1a) complete, whole, entire; 1b) whole, sound, healthful; 1c) complete, entire (of time); 1d) sound, wholesome, unimpaired, innocent, having integrity; 1e) what is complete or entirely in accord with truth and fact (neuter adjective/substantive)
Z… It has the meaning of, entire, sound, whole, without blemish, complete, perfect, faultless, upright in conduct, innocent, simple, honest and sincere.
DLG notes… TAMIM, is used around 100 times. It is often translated as "without blemish" and associated with the required perfection of a sacrificial animal. This gives us insight into God’s expectation for moral perfection. Jesus met this standard as the Lamb of God and we are raised to this level as God’s flock.
1) Genesis 6:9 These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect (8549) in his generations, and Noah walked with God.
DLG notes… Noah was a blameless man in his generation. We are responsible for our own time and place. We are not obligated to walk in the light that other people have. Based on his total commitment to God, Noah walked with God, that is, Noah maintained an ongoing and progressive relationship with God.
2) Genesis 17:1 And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect (8549).
DLG notes… Abram (Abraham) had been a follower of God since his youth. He had built altars and worshipped God throughout his travels. Occasionally he had allowed doubt and fear to turn him from his course. He had also resorted to the flesh when he took Hagar as a concubine, rather than trust God to provide him and Sara their promised son. There is no record of God talking to Abram for the 13 years following his sexual intercourse with Hagar. When God did speak to Abram again, He called Abram to walk (live) before Him, and to be perfect, blameless.
3) Deuteronomy 18:13 Thou shalt be perfect (8549) with the LORD thy God.
DLG notes… Israel’s worship was to be undefiled and unmixed with the practices of the pagans. This was a reasonable and reachable perfection God required of them and it is a reasonable and reachable perfection God requires of us. We can worship God in the beauty of holiness (Ps. 96:9) and we can worship God in spirit and in truth (Jn. 4:24).
4) 1 Kings 8:61 Let your heart therefore be perfect (8003) with the LORD our God, to walk in his statutes, and to keep his commandments, as at this day.
DLG notes… Solomon directed Israel to be in a perfect relationship with God.
K&D… "Let your heart be wholly, undividedly devoted to the Lord".
TWOT… "The general meaning behind the root sh-l-m is of completion and fulfillment— of entering into a state of wholeness and unity, a restored relationship".
DLG notes…The Hebrew word conveys the idea of peace and well-being. This verse tells us that we can be at peace and have undivided devotion to the Lord, that is, we can have our hearts "perfect" before the Lord, demonstrated by walking in God’s statutes and keeping God’s commands.
5) 1 Kings 11:4 For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect (8003) with the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father.
DLG notes… Solomon, in his fifties, having taken a great number of wives and concubines, had been influenced to turn his heart toward other gods. He even built pagan temples for these foreign women and he worshiped at their altars. Though Solomon had turned from God, he had not apostatized finally from God. Final apostasy is turning from God without the possibility of ever returning to God. Final apostasy is the result of moving away from God and hardening one’s heart. However, a person can die in his sins and be irretrievably cut off from God at any point in time.
Proverbs 29:1 He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.
There is no guarantee to anyone that he will not fall away finally. As God told Adam,
Genesis 2:17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.
Here was a case where it only took one sin to separate a man from God; actually, one sin separated an entire race from God. There is not one word in the entire Bible that changes this first principle. Remember,
Ezekiel 18:4 Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
As soon as we sin, we are dead to God.
James 1:15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
Contrary to the teachings of "sinning religion," it only takes one sin to separate us from God. This is why God tells us not to sin even one time (Jn. 5:14; 1 Jn. 2:1; 1 Co. 15:34).
It is interesting to note that God refers to Solomon’s imperfect heart. Whenever God is not the supreme, the only focus of our affection, worship and service, then our hearts are not perfect toward God. There is only one standard for "perfect" and that is 100%, complete, whole, total. As the Scripture says,
Mark 12:30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.
Loving God with the whole heart is not a work of the flesh; it is a work of God’s grace. It is a dangerous thing to refer to the gracious work of God in us, as the works of the flesh or the work of Satan.
1 Timothy 1:5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
The aim or result of the commandment is to bring us to perfection in love, purity, conscience and faith. The Bible says,
Romans 5:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
1 Thessalonians 4:7-8 7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness. 8 He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his Holy Spirit.
6) 1 Kings 15:14 But the high places were not removed: nevertheless Asa’s heart was perfect (8003) with the LORD all his days.
DLG notes… God requires a perfect heart. When we do our best, the end results are not always consistent with our intentions. When God does His best, the end result does not always meet God’s standard, because He allows humans to make eternal choices. God judges us according to our heart’s condition, not on the success of a venture.
7) Job 1:1, 8; 2:3 1:1 There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect (8535) and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil. 8 And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect (8535) and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? 2:3 And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect (8535) and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause.
DLG notes… Job actually existed in history, and God considered Job to be "perfect" and "upright." God called Job "perfect and upright" three times in this passage. The first time was in the introduction to the book itself (1:1), the second time was in God’s first address to Satan, concerning Job (1:8) and the third time was in God’s second address to Satan (2:3), after Satan had taken Job’s wealth and family.
8 ) Psalm 37:37 Mark the perfect (8535) man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.
9) Psalm 101:2 I will behave myself wisely in a perfect (8549) way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.
DLG notes… The writer determined to walk within his own home, his own family, his closest and most intimate relatives, with a perfect heart, a blameless heart. In the next verses he tells us some of the principles required for walking with a perfect heart.
10) Psalm 101:6 Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect (8549) way, he shall serve me.
DLG notes… Keeping good company is essential to living a blameless life. Remember that Paul said, "Bad company corrupts good morals."
11) Proverbs 2:21 For the upright shall dwell in the land, and the perfect (8549) shall remain in it.
12) Proverbs 11:5 The righteousness of the perfect (8549) shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.
DLG notes… This passage demonstrates that Biblical "perfection" is related to moral rectitude. The "perfect" are those who are righteous (blameless) and live righteously (blamelessly). (Biblical Christianity teaches that a person is righteous when he is in a state of saving grace.) The opposite of "perfect" in this passage is "wicked," as the opposite of "righteousness" is "wickedness." Righteousness provides stability to life. It is possible to be "perfect" (blameless) before God. A person is only blameworthy when he is "guilty" or responsible for disobedience to God’s requirements. God does not require anything from us that we are unable to give, by His grace. A ruler who requires more of his subjects than they can give is a cruel tyrant. Those who teach that God requires more than we can give are trying to justify their own unwillingness to obey God. Remember the old saying, "With God’s calling comes God’s enabling."
C. Perfection In The New Testament
1) Four New Testament Words
The following are four of the main Greek words that are translated as "perfect" in the KJV. I will give the "Strong’s" reference number to the Greek words, which are translated as "perfect" and then I will give definitions given by Strong (S), Thayer (T), Vine (V), Robertson (R) and Zodhiates (Z). These Greek words are not necessarily interchangeable. I am simply pointing out that the translation of the Greek words into "perfect" is correct. For a person to argue against Believer’s Perfection is to argue against the revealed word of God.
a) Concerning 5046 and related words.
(S) teleios complete (in various applications of labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.)
(T) 1) brought to its end, finished 2) wanting nothing necessary to completeness 3) perfect 4) that which is perfect 4a) consummate human integrity and virtue 4b) of men 4b1) full grown, adult, of full age, mature
(R) Perfect (teleioi). The word comes from telos, end, goal, limit.
(Z) Finished, that which has reached its end, term, limit; hence, complete, full, wanting in nothing.
DLG… This is what the word, "perfect" (5046) means in the passages where the Greek word, "teleios" is used. Complete, finished, wanting nothing necessary to completeness, full grown, end, goal and limit. This is the meaning of the word "perfect."
b) Concerning 2675 and related words.
(S) katartizō From G2596 and a derivative of G739; to complete thoroughly, that is, repair (literally or figuratively) or adjust: – fit, frame, mend, (make) perfect (-ly join together), prepare, restore.
(T) 1) to render, i.e. to fit, sound, complete 1a) to mend (what has been broken or rent), to repair 1a1) to complete 1b) to fit out, equip, put in order, arrange, adjust 1b1) to fit or frame for one’s self, prepare 1c) ethically: to strengthen, perfect, complete, make one what he ought to be
(V) The same word as at Mat_4:21, where it is used of adjusting or mending nets. Its secondary meaning is to furnish completely, equip; hence to perfect.
c) Concerning 199 and related words.
(S) 199 akribōs Adverb from the same as 196; exactly: – circumspectly, diligently, perfect (-ly).
(T) 1) exactly, accurately, diligently
(V) The verb means to follow closely, and hence to trace accurately. The word occurs frequently in medical writings,
d) Concerning 2005 and related words.
(S) epiteleō From G1909 and G5055; to fulfill further (or completely), that is, execute; by implication to terminate, undergo: – accomplish, do, finish, (make) (perfect), perform (X -ance).
(T) 1) to bring to an end, accomplish, perfect, execute, complete 1a) to take upon one’s self 1b) to make an end for one’s self 1b1) to leave off 2) to appoint to, impose upon.
This glance at the Greek words demonstrates that the real problem is not with the word "perfect." The problem, which "sinning religion" has with the Bible is the fact that God delivers from all sin in this present evil age. If we substitute words like, "complete," or "finished," or "fulfilled" or "thorough" for the word "perfect," we still have the doctrine of total deliverance from all sin in this present evil age. But we must not exchange the word of God for a watered down and powerless faith.
It has been the work of Satan to prejudice people against God’s vocabulary. God chose the words "saved," "converted," "born again," "entirely sanctified," "holy," "righteous," "pure" and "perfect." (YES, I know that the Bible was written in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek, but the words in the original languages translate to these English words.) If Satan can convince people to reject God’s chosen words, then he can keep them from ever coming to the knowledge of the truth. There are people who accept the words, "saved," "converted" and "born again," however, they reject the possibility that anyone can be "entirely sanctified," "holy," "righteous," "pure" or "perfect" in this life. But the same Bible that reveals God’s power to forgive, declares God’s power to make us holy. The argument against holiness of heart and life is an argument based on human theology and not based on Biblical revelation. If you are not careful, you will mistake human wisdom for Divine revelation.
2) Believer’s Perfection Is New Testament Truth
I will quote a few verses to introduce this subject and then I will give more than a dozen Biblical sub-topics addressing Christian perfection. Remember, this is an overview. The Bible says much, much more about this subject than does this little article.
a) 2 Corinthians 13:11 Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect (2675), be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.
b) Colossians 1:28-29 28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect (5046) in Christ Jesus: 29 Whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
c) Colossians 4:12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect (5046) and complete in all the will of God.
d) Hebrews 13:20-21 20 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, 21 Make you perfect (2675) in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
e) 1 Peter 5:10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect (2675), establish, strengthen, settle you.
3) Sixteen Areas Of Believer’s Perfection
a) Perfect In Love
Matthew 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect (5046), even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect (5046).
Colossians 3:14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness (5047).
1 John 2:5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected (5048): hereby know we that we are in him.
1 John 4:12 No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected (5048) in us.
1 John 4:17 Herein is our love made perfect (5048), that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.
1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect (5048) love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not madeperfect (5048) in love.
b) Perfect In Mercy
Luke 6:36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is only reasonable that we are exercising perfect mercy when WE ARE AS MERCIFUL, AS OUR HEAVENLY FATHER IS MERCIFUL.
c) Perfect In Holiness
2 Corinthians 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting (2005) holiness in the fear of God.
Ephesians 1:4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, WE WERE CHOSEN TO BE HOLY AND WITHOUT BLAME, and this is PERFECT HOLINESS.
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, GOD PROMISES TO SANCTIFY (PURIFY) BELIEVERS WHOLLY, COMPLETELY, ENTIRELY, THROUGH AND THROUGH. THIS IS PERFECT CLEANSING.
Titus 2:12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is self evident that PERFECT HOLINESS IS THE RESULT OF "DENYING UNGODLINESS AND WORLDLY LUST" AND "LIVING SOBERLY, RIGHTEOUSLY, AND GODLY IN THIS PRESENT WORLD."
1 Peter 1:15-16 15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; 16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is self evident that being holy, as God is holy and being holy, in ALL MANNER OF BEHAVIOR IS PERFECT HOLINESS.
1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be more perfectly cleansed from sin, than to be CLEANSED FROM ALL SIN.
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be more perfectly cleansed from unrighteousness, than to be CLEANSED FROM ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS.
d) Perfect In Righteousness
1 John 3:7 Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be any more righteous than GOD IS RIGHTEOUS.
e) Perfect In Purity
1 John 3:3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be any more pure than GOD IS PURE.
f) Perfect In Conscience
Acts 24:16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offense toward God, and toward men.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, a person’s conscience cannot be anymore perfect than BEING VOID OF OFFENSE TOWARD GOD AND MEN.
g) Perfect In Christ Likeness
Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be any more perfect than to be CONFORMED TO THE IMAGE OF JESUS.
h) Perfect In Christian Walk
1 John 2:6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to behave or live our lives any more perfectly than WALKING AS CHRIST WALKED.
i) Perfect In Obedient Thought
2 Corinthians 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to have a more perfect thinking pattern than to BRING EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE TO THE OBEDIENCE OF CHRIST.
j) Perfect In Spiritual Mindedness
Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to have a more perfect mind than to HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST.
Philippians 3:15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
k) Perfect In Forgiving Others
Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to forgive more perfectly than FORGIVING EACH OTHER AS GOD FORGIVES US.
l) Perfect In Unity
John 17:22-23 22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: 23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect (5048) in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
m) Perfect In Consistent Service
1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be more consistent in service to God than being STEADFAST, UNMOVABLE, ALWAYS ABOUNDING IN THE WORK OF THE LORD.
n) Perfect In Christian Graces And Growth
Hebrews 6:1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection (5047); not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
o) Perfect In The Will Of God
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect (5046), will of God.
p) Perfect Deliverance
Hebrews 7:25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.
DLG notes… Though the word, "perfect" is not used in this verse, it is impossible to be saved more perfectly than to be SAVED TO THE UTTERMOST.
SUMMARY
God calls us to perfection.
God equips us for perfection.
God has perfected others.
To deny that we can live a holy life, which is believer’s perfection, is to deny God.
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