A plain account of Christian perfection is a topic that has intrigued and puzzled many throughout history. It refers to the state of being in which a Christian achieves a deep, profound, and lasting union with God, characterized by love, holiness, and a complete surrender to God’s will. This article aims to provide a clear and concise explanation of what Christian perfection entails, its significance in the Christian faith, and the challenges and rewards that come with pursuing it.
Christian perfection is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, who emphasized the importance of love, humility, and self-sacrifice. In the New Testament, Jesus teaches his disciples to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33). This pursuit of divine perfection is not about achieving a perfect life in the earthly sense but rather about aligning one’s heart, mind, and will with God’s perfect will.
The concept of Christian perfection is often associated with the writings of the early church fathers, such as Augustine and John Calvin, as well as with the mystics like Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross. These spiritual leaders described Christian perfection as a gradual process of growing in grace, faith, and love, culminating in a profound and intimate relationship with God.
To understand Christian perfection, it is essential to recognize that it is not a state that can be achieved through human effort alone. It is a gift from God, received through faith and the grace of the Holy Spirit. This gift is available to all believers, but it requires a sincere and persistent pursuit of holiness, as well as a willingness to surrender to God’s divine will.
One of the key aspects of Christian perfection is the love that God bestows upon His children. This love is not merely an emotional feeling but a profound, transformative power that enables believers to love others as God loves them. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, Paul describes love as patient, kind, humble, and self-sacrificing. These qualities are central to Christian perfection, as they reflect the character of God and His desire for His children to embody these virtues.
Another critical element of Christian perfection is the pursuit of holiness. This does not mean living a life without sin, as no one is perfect. Instead, it involves a continual process of repentance, forgiveness, and growth in grace. As believers mature in their faith, they are called to renounce their sins, embrace God’s commands, and strive to live a life that is pleasing to Him.
Pursuing Christian perfection is not without its challenges. It requires a deep commitment to prayer, study of God’s Word, and the practice of spiritual disciplines such as fasting, meditation, and contemplation. It also involves navigating the trials and tribulations of life with faith, hope, and love. Despite these challenges, the rewards of Christian perfection are immeasurable. They include a profound sense of peace, joy, and purpose, as well as the assurance of eternal life with God.
In conclusion, a plain account of Christian perfection is a journey of faith, love, and surrender to God’s divine will. It is a gift from God that requires a sincere and persistent pursuit of holiness. While it is not an attainable goal through human effort alone, it is a promise that God will complete the work He has begun in those who believe in Him. As believers strive to live out their faith, they can experience the transformative power of Christian perfection, leading to a life of love, joy, and eternal salvation.
