What does the Bible say about striving for perfection?

The pursuit of perfection is a common theme in many aspects of life, whether in our careers, relationships, or personal aspirations. However, when we turn to the Bible for guidance on striving for perfection, we find a nuanced and deeply spiritual perspective that challenges our understanding and invites us into a transformative journey.

The Bible addresses the concept of perfection in several key passages, offering insights that are both profound and practical. One of the most direct references comes from Jesus Himself, who in the Sermon on the Mount, declares, "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect" (Matthew 5:48, NIV). This command can seem daunting, even impossible, at first glance. However, to fully grasp its meaning, we must explore the biblical context and the original language.

The Greek word translated as "perfect" in this verse is "teleios," which implies completeness, maturity, or wholeness rather than flawlessness. Jesus is calling His followers to a maturity in love and character that reflects the nature of God. This call to perfection is not about achieving a state of sinlessness or moral impeccability but about growing into the fullness of what God intends for us.

The Apostle Paul echoes this idea in his letters. In Philippians 3:12-14, Paul writes, "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Here, Paul acknowledges his own imperfections and ongoing need for growth. His striving is not for a static state of perfection but for a dynamic process of becoming more like Christ.

In the context of spiritual growth, striving for perfection involves a continuous journey of transformation. This journey is marked by several key elements:

1. Dependence on God's Grace and Power: Recognizing that human effort alone is insufficient, the Bible emphasizes the necessity of God's grace and the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul shares God's assurance to him: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Our weaknesses and imperfections become opportunities for God's power to be displayed and for us to rely more fully on Him.

2. Pursuing Holiness: The call to perfection is also a call to holiness. In 1 Peter 1:15-16, Peter writes, "But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'" Holiness involves being set apart for God's purposes and living in a way that reflects His character. It is a process of sanctification, where we are gradually transformed into the likeness of Christ.

3. Love as the Fulfillment of Perfection: Central to the biblical understanding of perfection is the concept of love. In Colossians 3:14, Paul writes, "And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." Love is the highest expression of Christian maturity and completeness. Jesus' command to "be perfect" in Matthew 5:48 is given in the context of loving our enemies, highlighting that true perfection is demonstrated through selfless, sacrificial love.

4. Humility and Repentance: The journey toward perfection requires a posture of humility and a willingness to repent. James 4:10 exhorts us, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." Acknowledging our imperfections and seeking God's forgiveness and guidance is essential for growth. Repentance is not a one-time event but a continual turning back to God and aligning our lives with His will.

5. Community and Accountability: Spiritual growth and the pursuit of perfection are not solitary endeavors. The Bible emphasizes the importance of community and mutual support. In Hebrews 10:24-25, we are encouraged, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Being part of a faith community provides accountability, encouragement, and opportunities to grow together.

6. Patience and Perseverance: The journey toward perfection is marked by patience and perseverance. James 1:4 reminds us, "Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." Growth takes time, and setbacks are part of the process. Persevering through challenges and continuing to seek God in all circumstances is crucial for spiritual maturity.

In light of these biblical principles, striving for perfection is not about achieving a flawless state but about pursuing a deeper relationship with God and becoming more like Christ. It involves a holistic transformation that encompasses our character, actions, and relationships. It is a journey marked by grace, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and lived out in the context of community.

The writings of Christian thinkers and theologians also shed light on this journey. For example, C.S. Lewis, in his book "Mere Christianity," writes about the transformative process of becoming like Christ: "The command Be ye perfect is not idealistic gas. Nor is it a command to do the impossible. He is going to make us into creatures that can obey that command." Lewis emphasizes that God's intention is to transform us from the inside out, making us capable of reflecting His perfection.

Similarly, A.W. Tozer, in his book "The Pursuit of God," speaks to the longing for deeper intimacy with God: "To have found God and still to pursue Him is the soul’s paradox of love, scorned indeed by the too-easily-satisfied religious person, but justified in happy experience by the children of the burning heart." Tozer highlights that the pursuit of God and His perfection is an ongoing, passionate journey that continually draws us closer to Him.

In conclusion, the Bible's teaching on striving for perfection invites us into a dynamic and transformative journey. It calls us to maturity, holiness, love, humility, and perseverance. It is a journey empowered by God's grace and the work of the Holy Spirit, lived out in the context of community and accountability. As we strive for perfection, we are not seeking flawlessness but a deeper, more intimate relationship with God, becoming more like Christ, and reflecting His love and character in our lives.