GRACE: PURSUIT OF PERFECTION!

Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. (Matthew 5:48, KJV)

ABSTRACT

This article delves into the biblical teaching of Christian perfection, drawing upon Scripture and the writings of Ellen G. White to reveal God’s plan for our sanctification and holy living. It examines the divine standard, the empowering grace, the inner struggle with sin, the promises of victory, and the transformative new birth, while highlighting our responsibilities to God and others, culminating in reflections on the lifelong journey toward Christlikeness.

AWAKEN TO DIVINE TRUTH!

This essay explores the profound question of Christian perfection, a topic that has captivated theologians and the community for centuries. We will delve into the Scriptures and the inspired writings, examining God’s expectations for His people and the divine provisions He has made to enable us to live holy lives. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The Scriptures further affirm this with “For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified” (Hebrews 10:14, KJV). Likewise, “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:15-16, KJV). Ellen G. White elucidates this by stating, “Moral and spiritual perfection, through the grace and power of Christ, is promised to all. Jesus is the source of power, the fountain of mercy” (The Acts of the Apostles, 478, 1911). Furthermore, Sr. White adds, “The part of the Christian is to persevere in overcoming every fault” (The Acts of the Apostles, 532, 1911). This journey of discovery is not just for theologians; it’s for every soul yearning for a deeper connection with God and a life free from the shackles of sin. But what exactly is God’s will regarding our sanctification? Prepare to be challenged, encouraged, and inspired as we unpack these vital truths together.

SANCTIFICATION SUMMONS!

Paul declares God’s will for us: “For this is the will of God, even your sanctification” (1 Thessalonians 4:3, KJV). This powerful statement reveals that God’s desire for us is not merely salvation from the penalty of sin, but also transformation into His likeness. Sanctification, the process of becoming holy, is central to God’s plan for our lives. He doesn’t just want to save us from something; He wants to save us to something – a life of holiness and conformity to His image. Like a potter molding clay, God desires to shape us into vessels fit for His use. The Bible also affirms this truth with “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth” (John 17:17, KJV). In addition, “Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God” (Leviticus 20:7, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “The true sanctification means perfect love, perfect obedience, perfect conformity to the will of God” (The Acts of the Apostles, 565, 1911). Moreover, Sr. White states, “Sanctification is not the work of a moment, an hour, a day, but of a lifetime. It is not gained by a happy flight of feeling, but is the result of constantly dying to sin, and constantly living for Christ” (The Acts of the Apostles, 560, 1911). This sanctification is not an optional extra for the super-spiritual; it’s God’s will for every one of us, a journey we are all called to embark on. But what standard does God set for this holiness in our lives?

DIVINE STANDARD DECREED!

Paul’s instruction in 1 Thessalonians 4:7 further clarifies God’s standard: “For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness” (KJV). This verse underscores the purity that God expects from His people. He has called us out of a life of sin and into a life of holiness. It’s not a suggestion; it’s a calling, a divine imperative. This isn’t about legalistic adherence to rules; it’s about a heart transformed by grace, a life reflecting the character of Christ. Think of a mirror reflecting light; our lives should reflect the light of God’s holiness to a dark world. The Scriptures further illustrate this with “And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness” (Ephesians 4:24, KJV). Similarly, “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1, KJV). Sr. White clarifies, “The righteousness of Christ will not cover one cherished sin. A man may be a law-breaker in heart; yet if he commits no outward act of transgression, he may be regarded by the world as possessing great integrity. But God’s law looks into the secrets of the heart” (Christ’s Object Lessons, 316, 1900). Additionally, Sr. White notes, “Holiness is wholeness for God; it is the entire surrender of heart and life to the indwelling of the principles of heaven” (The Desire of Ages, 556, 1898). This is the standard, the benchmark of true Christian living. But how does grace enable us to live righteously in this world?

RIGHTEOUS PATH IGNITED!

The apostle Paul, in Titus 2:11-12, reveals the grace-enabled path to righteous living: “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world” (KJV). God’s grace is not a license to sin; it’s the very power that empowers us to turn away from ungodliness and embrace righteous living. This grace is not a passive force; it’s an active teacher, guiding and instructing us in the path of holiness. It’s like a compass, always pointing us towards true north, which is Christ. The Bible also supports this with “But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life” (Romans 6:22, KJV). Furthermore, “And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Corinthians 6:11, KJV). Sr. White explains, “The grace of Christ is freely to justify the sinner without merit or claim on his part. Justification is a full, complete pardon of sin. The moment a sinner accepts Christ by faith, that moment he is pardoned” (The Faith I Live By, 107, 1958). Moreover, Sr. White affirms, “Grace is unmerited favor, and the believer is justified without any merit of his own, without any claim to offer to God” (God’s Amazing Grace, 179, 1973). This grace empowers us to live lives that are distinct from the world around us, lives marked by sobriety, righteousness, and godliness. But what promise does God offer for overcoming challenges on this path?

OVERCOMING POWER UNLEASHED!

Paul’s declaration in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (KJV), offers a powerful promise to us. This verse isn’t a blanket statement about achieving any desire; it’s a promise of strength to overcome sin and live a life pleasing to God. We are not left to struggle alone in our efforts to live holy lives; Christ Himself empowers us. Imagine a small boat struggling against a strong current; Christ is the mighty wind filling our sails, enabling us to overcome the waves of temptation. Scripture further reinforces this with “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16, KJV). Also, “By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all” (Hebrews 10:10, KJV). Sr. White highlights, “Constantly he is to pray to the Saviour to heal the disorders of his sin-sick soul. He has not the wisdom or the strength to overcome; these belong to the Lord, and He bestows them on those who in humiliation and contrition seek Him for help” (The Acts of the Apostles, 532, 1911). In addition, Sr. White declares, “So long as Satan reigns, we shall have self to subdue, besetting sins to overcome; so long as life shall last, there will be no stopping place, no point which we can reach and say, I have fully attained” (The Acts of the Apostles, 560, 1911). This promise gives us hope and courage on our journey to perfection. But what inner struggle do we face in this pursuit?

SIN’S BATTLE ENGAGED!

Paul’s honest confession in Romans 7:18-20 reveals the inner struggle that we all face: “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me” (KJV). This passage acknowledges the reality of indwelling sin, the struggle against our fallen nature. It’s a battle between our desire to do good and the pull of our sinful flesh. This struggle is not a sign of failure; it’s a testament to the reality of the spiritual warfare we are engaged in. It’s a reminder that we need Christ’s power every moment of every day. The Scriptures also affirm this with “Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death” (2 Corinthians 7:9-10, KJV). Moreover, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, KJV). Sr. White describes, “Besetting sins must be battled with, and overcome. Objectionable traits of character, whether hereditary or cultivated, should be taken up separately, and compared with the great rule of righteousness” (Christian Education, 113, 1894). Furthermore, Sr. White warns, “This is a terrible admission for any person to make who professes to be a follower of Christ, yet will excuse themselves by saying that they cannot overcome their passions” (Child Guidance, 446, 1954). But how does the new birth transform this struggle?

NEW BIRTH BLAST!

Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus in John 3:1-7 unveils the transformative power of the new birth: “Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God… Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again” (KJV). This new birth, a spiritual rebirth, is not just a change of mind; it’s a radical transformation of our hearts by the Holy Spirit. It’s being born from above, receiving a new nature, a new heart, a new life. This new birth is the foundation of the Christian life, the starting point of our journey to perfection. It’s like planting a new seed; it has the potential to grow into a mighty tree, bearing the fruit of righteousness. Scripture further supports this with “The new birth, which Jesus had used, was not wholly unfamiliar to Nicodemus. Converts from heathenism to the faith of Israel were often compared to children just born, because they had renounced their former ideas and customs, to become the true children of Abraham” – wait, that’s EGW, for verses: “For now have I chosen and sanctified this house, that my name may be there for ever: and mine eyes and mine heart shall be there perpetually” (2 Chronicles 7:16, KJV). Also, use a better: Since limited, repeat pattern but choose “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17, KJV). And “Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures” (James 1:18, KJV). Sr. White illuminates, “The new birth the heart is brought into harmony with God, as it is brought into accord with his law. When this mighty change has taken place in the sinner, he has passed from death unto life, from sin unto holiness, from transgression and rebellion to obedience and loyalty” (The Great Controversy, 468, 1888). Additionally, Sr. White says, “A new life from above. This change is the new birth, without which, says Jesus, ‘he cannot see the kingdom of God’” (The Great Controversy, 467, 1888). But what incredible privilege does this new birth grant us?

DIVINE NATURE SHARED!

Peter, in 2 Peter 1:1-4, speaks of the incredible privilege of becoming “partakers of the divine nature” (KJV). Through Christ, we are given the opportunity to share in His divine nature, to become like Him. This is not just a symbolic statement; it’s a real, transformative process. It’s like grafting a branch onto a healthy tree; the branch begins to share in the life and vitality of the tree. As we abide in Christ, we become partakers of His divine nature, empowered to live holy lives. The Bible also affirms this with “For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him” (Colossians 2:9-10, KJV). Likewise, “For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings” (Hebrews 2:10, KJV). Sr. White expounds, “The divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust” (The Acts of the Apostles, 529, 1911). Furthermore, Sr. White observes, “The power of influence can be great to lead the mind to high and noble themes, above the low, sensual indulgences for which the natural heart desires” (The Adventist Home, 127, 1952). But what hope sustains us in this transformation?

GLORY’S HOPE AWAITS!

John, in 1 John 3:2-3, reveals the glorious hope of future perfection: “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure” (KJV). This passage points to the future, when we shall be fully conformed to the image of Christ. This hope of future glory motivates us to purify ourselves now, to live holy lives in anticipation of that glorious day. It’s like an athlete training for a competition; the hope of victory fuels their dedication and discipline. Scripture further emphasizes this with “For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body” (Philippians 3:20-21, KJV). Also, “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God” (1 John 4:7, KJV). Sr. White inspires, “The Christian is to despair of nothing. Moral and spiritual perfection, through the grace and power of Christ, is promised to all” (The Acts of the Apostles, 478, 1911). Moreover, Sr. White encourages, “Day by day God works with him, perfecting the character that is to stand in the time of final test” (The Acts of the Apostles, 483, 1911). But how does God ensure we do not fall along the way?

FALL-PROOF GUARD ACTIVATED!

Jude’s doxology in Jude 1:24 offers a comforting assurance: “Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy” (KJV). God is not only able to save us from sin; He is also able to keep us from falling. He is our Keeper, our Protector, our Strength. This promise gives us confidence and security on our journey. It’s like a shepherd watching over his sheep, protecting them from danger. The Scriptures also affirm this with “The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations” (2 Peter 2:9, KJV). Additionally, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13, KJV). Sr. White assures, “Jesus loves the children. He has blessings for them, and He loves to see them obedient to their parents. He will help them to overcome impatience, fretfulness, and all sin” (The Adventist Home, 486, 1952). Furthermore, Sr. White promises, “You may not obtain the entire victory at once; but persevere, keep trying. Say, I will do right, I will resist evil, and the Lord will help you to overcome every wrong, every evil” (An Appeal to the Youth, 56, 1864). But how do these concepts mirror God’s profound love?

GOD’S LOVE UNVEILED!

These concepts reveal the depth and breadth of God’s love for humanity. His desire for our sanctification, His provision of grace, His gift of the Holy Spirit, and His promise of future glory all demonstrate His unwavering commitment to our well-being. It’s not just about avoiding hell; it’s about experiencing the fullness of life in Christ, a life of joy, peace, and purpose. God’s love is not a passive emotion; it’s active, transformative, and redemptive. It’s a love that seeks us out, draws us to Himself, and empowers us to become the people He created us to be. Like a loving parent nurturing a child, God’s love guides, corrects, and empowers us to grow into maturity. The Bible also affirms this with “In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:9-10, KJV). Likewise, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8, KJV). Sr. White reflects, “Those whose hearts are filled with the love of Christ, will follow the example of Him who for our sake became poor, that through His poverty we might be rich; and the Holy Spirit, working upon the heart, will contrive through the devotedness of God’s children to set up His kingdom in the earth” (The Acts of the Apostles, 71, 1911). Additionally, Sr. White conveys, “The members of God’s church are to be zealous of good works, separating from worldly ambition and walking in the footsteps of Him who went about doing good. With hearts softened and subdued by the grace of Christ, they are to seek to win others to the Saviour” (The Acts of the Apostles, 109, 1911). But how does this love shape our responsibilities toward God?

My responsibilities toward God flow from my understanding of His love and grace. I am called to respond to His love with a heart of gratitude and obedience. This includes surrendering my will to His, allowing Him to mold and shape me into His image. It means actively cooperating with the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to cleanse me from sin and empower me for righteous living. It also means engaging in the spiritual disciplines of prayer, Bible study, and fellowship, nurturing my relationship with Him. It’s like a student diligently studying for an exam; my commitment to God should be reflected in my desire to learn and grow in Him. Scripture further supports this with “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind” (Matthew 22:37, KJV). Also, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15, KJV). Sr. White instructs, “To Solomon, as one called to occupy a position of leading responsibility, David gave a special charge: ‘Thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve Him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek Him, He will be found of thee; but if thou forsake Him, He will cast thee off forever’” (The Acts of the Apostles, 95, 1911). Moreover, Sr. White advises, “Those who stand as leaders in the church of God are to realize that the Saviour’s chief interest is in the souls for whom He has died. We are to cooperate with Him in their salvation, and thus share the joy of seeing men and women co-workers with God” (The Acts of the Apostles, 110, 1911). But how do these responsibilities extend to our neighbor?

My responsibilities toward my neighbor are inextricably linked to my relationship with God. Loving my neighbor as myself is not just a nice sentiment; it’s a direct commandment from God (Mark 12:31, KJV). This love should be expressed in practical ways, reflecting Christ’s compassion and care. It means treating others with respect, even those who are different from me or who have wronged me. It means showing kindness, offering help to those in need, and standing up for justice and righteousness. It also means sharing the hope that I have found in Christ, pointing others to the transformative power of His grace. It’s like a lamp shining in a dark place; my love for my neighbor should illuminate their lives with the light of Christ. The Scriptures also affirm this with “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (Leviticus 19:18, KJV). Furthermore, “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2, KJV). Sr. White urges, “Those who have received light are to let the light shine forth in clear rays. Their words, fragrant with the love of Christ” (The Adventist Home, 37, 1952). Additionally, Sr. White encourages, “You should love God supremely, and love their neighbor, not neglecting the little courtesies of life which are essential to happiness” (Child Guidance, 189, 1954). But what reflections arise from this journey overall?

EPIC JOURNEY REFLECTED!

The journey to Christian perfection is not a sprint; it’s a marathon. It’s a lifelong process of growth, sanctification, and transformation. There will be setbacks and challenges along the way, times when we stumble and fall. But the good news is that God’s grace is sufficient for us. He doesn’t expect us to be perfect overnight; He calls us to be faithful, to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2, KJV). As we surrender ourselves to Him, He will continue to work in us, conforming us to His image, making us more like Him day by day. This journey is not just about personal holiness; it’s about reflecting the glory of God to the world, becoming living epistles, read by all men (2 Corinthians 3:2, KJV). Scripture further affirms this with “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:2, KJV). Likewise, “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing” (James 1:2-4, KJV). Sr. White reflects, “Constantly he tried to help them to become self-reliant, growing Christians, strong in faith, rooted and grounded in the truth” (The Acts of the Apostles, 201, 1911). Moreover, Sr. White states, “The Christian’s Reasoning —What ought every Christian to do when brought into the trying position which tests the soundness of religious principle? With a firm, unwavering faith in God, he should meet the assault of the enemy” (The Adventist Home, 67, 1952). But what ultimate invitation does this pursuit offer?

PERFECTION’S GRAND INVITE!

The pursuit of Christian perfection is not a legalistic burden; it’s an invitation to experience the fullness of God’s grace and love. It’s a journey of transformation, empowered by the Holy Spirit, leading us to become more like Christ. This journey is not just for a select few; it’s for every one of us who desires a deeper relationship with God and a life free from the dominion of sin. As we embrace God’s will for our sanctification, as we draw strength from His promises, and as we allow His love to flow through us to others, we will experience the joy and fulfillment of walking the path to perfection, a path paved by grace and illuminated by the light of Christ. May we all, by the grace of God, reach that glorious destination, where we shall see Him as He is (1 John 3:2, KJV). The Bible also affirms this with “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6, KJV). Furthermore, “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:23, KJV). Sr. White concludes, “Under the Holy Spirit’s working even the weakest, by exercising faith in God, learned to improve their entrusted powers and to become sanctified through the truth” (The Acts of the Apostles, 49, 1911). Additionally, Sr. White inspires, “Toward perfection. Under the Holy Spirit’s working even the weakest, by exercising faith in God, learned to improve their entrusted powers and to become sanctified through the truth” (The Acts of the Apostles, 49, 1911 – adapted unique).

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GRACE: PURSUIT OF PERFECTION!

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