Be Perfect!

Scripture Text: Matthew 5:48 "But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in Heaven is perfect."

1) Our role model is God, the Father in Heaven. {Deuteronomy 32:4}

2) The "command" is not given if it can't be done.

3) It's "commanded" here while we are alive on Earth.

The word "perfect" in the text {Matthew 5:48}, is derived from the Greek word (telios), meaning to complete in various applications of labor, growth, mental, and moral character.

The Essential Elements of Perfection:

1) Benevolence {Matthew 19:21}

2) Love {Colossians 3:14} 3) Good works {James 2:22}

4) Control of the tongue {James 3:2}

5) Obedience {1 John 2:5}

The Duty to be Perfect:

1) Replace the old ways of the Old Covenant. {2 Corinthians 3:11}

2) Measure to the full and complete standard of Christ. {Ephesians 4:13}

3) Be perfect in our relationship to Jesus Christ. {Colossians 1:28} 4) Become mature in our understanding. {Hebrews 6:1}

5) Be perfect and complete. {James 1:4}