Principles of the Doctrine of Christ: Perfection (continued)

Beloved, in continuance of our theme, “Perfection”, from the “Principles of the Doctrines of Christ” series, I would like to point out that even our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was made perfect and adjusted to this life through suffering. Beloved, if we live for God, we must strive for perfection, and we must also become adjusted to a life of gaining perfection. The scripture teaches us that “the captain of (our) salvation (was made) perfect through sufferings” (Hebrews 2:10). We are also taught that “though he (Jesus) were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered. And being made perfect (completed), he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;” (Hebrews 5:8-9). This teaches us not to be too hard on ourselves when we have not yet reached our goals. The closer we get to perfection, the more sufferings (challenges) we will have to face. Yet, we must never shirk the challenge, but live up to it! If we obey Jesus’ directives for our lives, we will be made perfect as He was.

Precious Ones, this principle is only understood by faith! One must believe every word God says in order to achieve what He considers to be perfection. For example, we must believe the scripture that says, “…by one offering he (Jesus) hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified” (Hebrews 10:14). Beloved, if you don’t have the faith that Jesus’ sacrifice on Calvary purchased perfection for every obedient believer, then you will not understand Jesus’ requirements for perfection, and you will not be considered “sanctified”, saved or set apart for God’s use!

Chosen Ones, we are “perfect” and sanctified if we obey the commandments of God. It is recorded in the Holy writ that our Jesus said, “I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth” (John 17:19). This is powerful, Beloved. Had Jesus not obeyed, we could never even consider the thought of being made perfect. Yet, because Jesus sanctified Himself by offering His body in the place of our worthless selves, we are forever sanctified through the truth of His Word and through obedience to that Word – not by faith alone!

Children of God, we can now understand the scripture that says, “…God hath from the beginning (if you believe it) chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth” (II Thessalonians 2:13).

I will write more on this subject next week. Until then, know this…

I love you all SO very much.
In His Love,

Pastor William L. McCoy