2009 Lenten Devotional and Prayer Guide

March 2

 

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

 

“Perfect” is both a command and a promise.  It is also one of the most misunderstood Christian concepts.  John Wesley talked about “Christian perfection” while noting that “absolute perfection” was impossible.  In modern English we use “perfect” to mean “flawless” (“absolute perfection”). However, the Greek means “mature” in the sense of fulfilling purpose and function (“Christian perfection”).  Commenting on this verse, Wesley wrote, “It is the giving all our heart; it is one desire and design ruling all our tempers… it is a renewal of all the heart in the whole image of God, the full likeness of Him that created it.”  Or, as Wesley puts it, it is “purity of intention.”  [Written by: Pastor Dan]

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