Principles of the Doctrine of Christ: Perfection (continued)

Beloved, in continuance of our theme from the “Principles of the Doctrines of Christ” series, entitled “Perfection,” – in the holy scriptures, the word “perfect” was sometimes used in conjunction with completeness – something finished. For example, the scriptures record that “all the work of Solomon was prepared unto the day of the foundation of the house of the LORD, and until it was finished. So the house of the LORD was perfected” (II Chronicles 8:16). This means that it is possible for us to achieve “perfected,” completed goals in our service to the Lord Jesus Christ. However, we should never feel that because God has given us grace to complete a project for Him, we need no more instruction. We must always remain humble and realize that we will always have something new to learn in our quest for “perfection.” Remember, Paul said, “…we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come [our perfect new minds in our perfect new heavenly bodies], then that which is in part shall be done away [with]” (I Corinthians 13:9-10).

Precious Ones, this series of letters is not written to give us false hopes. In other words, we will never “know it all” in these carnal bodies. It is only when “this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality” (I Corinthians 15:54) that “we shall be like him” (I John 3:2) – perfect, without any flaws! This series of letters is written to motivate us to live for Him to the best of our ability. In God’s eyes, that’s living a life of “perfection.” This is what Paul meant to say to the believers at Philippi. He said, “[It is] not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect [complete, flawless]: but I follow after [I’m trying hard]… but this one thing I do… I press toward the mark for the prize of the high [perfect] calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as [can] be perfect, be thus [like] minded [let us all walk by the same rule, and let us be mindful of the same thing]” (Philippians 3:12-16). Beloved, let us all strive to walk as perfectly as possible!

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