At the end of Matthew 5:46-48 Jesus says that we should be perfect, as our Father in Heaven is perfect. Those who are humble and think rightly of themselves with sober judgement would say this is a tall order. Who can be perfect!? However, through God's grace it ought to be our aim to be perfect as He is perfect. This verse comes as the last statement at the end of a section telling us how to treat others and how this is different than how we naturally want to treat others; do good to our enemies, forgive injuries, entertain strangers, etc. Therefore we must seek to be perfect as He is perfect.
This process of moving towards perfection is called "sanctification" in church lingo; the continual process of becoming more like Christ.
Romans 12:2 says, "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind..."
1 Peter 1:14-16 says, "As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy; so be holy in all you do; for it is written, "Be holy, for I am holy.""
As a follow of Christ, I must be different than what the world says is normal and okay. I must strive to reflect the image (actions) of Christ and seek to become like He asks me to be. Thus the reason to study these commands of Christ that I'm going through.
May God, in His mercy and grace, draw me ever closer to Him and mold me into His likeness. Amen.
Come back again for Jesus' Command #12 - Practice Secret Disciplines
No comments:
Post a Comment