Perfection of Character

The Call to Perfection

Why are exhorted to patience?

“Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1:4. 

How perfect does Christ tell us to be?

“Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Matthew 5:48.

In whom are we complete?

“And you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority.” Colossians 2:10.

Growth and Advancement

After accepting Christ, what are we to do?

“Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from the acts that lead to death, and of faith in God.” Hebrews 6:1.  

In what is the Christian to grow?

“But grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever. Amen.” 2 Peter 3:18.  

How may one grow in grace?

“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.” 2 Peter 1:5-7.  

Why does Christ desire this growth in His followers?

“And to present herself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.” Ephesians 5:27. 

Sources of Spiritual Nourishment

What will cause the Christian to grow?

“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.” 1 Peter 2:2.

In order to grow by the Word of God, what must one do?

“When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight. For I bear your name, O Lord God Almighty.” Jeremiah 15:16.  “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might no sin against you.” Psalm 119:11.  (See also Colossians 3:16.)

What does God’s Word then become to the believer?

“They were my joy and my heart’s delight.” Jeremiah 15:16.

Why was Scripture given?

“All scripture is God-breathed and is used for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16,17.

How may the lack of wisdom be supplied?

“If any man lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.” James 1:5.  

In how many things may we ask help from God?

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”  Philippians 4:6. 

Fullness of Perfection

What is the evidence of perfection?

“We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check.” James 3:2.

What is the bond of perfection?

“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

Colossians 3:14. (See also Philippians 3:13; Hebrews 12:14.)

How perfect would God have us become?

“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, mind and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

1 Thessalonians 5:23.

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