A More Perfect You
The Pursuit of Perfection in Christ
Perfection: The Absolute Standard
Teaching Strategy
The focus of this lesson is to introduce the concept of perfection as God expects. Of special note is Jesus as the standard for perfection. Note: The concepts of conditional and actual perfection are introduced in this lesson. Instructors may decide to simply define these concepts since a deeper study will begin in lesson 2 and continue.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Know: Understand the concept of perfection.
- Feel: Value the gift of salvation God provides through Jesus.
- Do: Demonstrate appreciation for God’s grace by living faithfully according to the teachings of Jesus.
Body of the Lesson
Discussion Questions
Below are suggested questions to use during the guided discussion portion of the lesson. There are also suggested responses to questions to help students grasp the various concepts. These are provided to assist the discussion and are not considered as “right or wrong” responses.
1. What is your definition or understanding of the concept of perfection?
The intent of this question is to establish a basic understanding of the concept of perfection. Look for both spiritual and secular definitions. As a possible follow-up discussion, ask why if perfection is impossible to achieve, does God require it?
2. How does the world's view of perfection differ from a Christian's view of perfection?
Use the introduction from the text to assist in discussing this question. The "world" holds a variety of understandings of perfection ranging from being the best one can be based on self or society's standards, to that of the aesthetic's perfection sought after through the denying of self. Christianity recognizes that we are compelled to strive for perfection as exemplified by Jesus with the understanding that we are incapable of achieving it. This underscores our need for God's grace and our obedient faith.
3. Use Matthew 5:48 to answer the following questions:
Our heavenly father.
We receive an imputed righteousness through faith in Christ. This expression of God's grace on our behalf motivates believers to strive for moral/spiritual perfection through faithful obedience to Christ. This moral/spiritual exercise powers our growth in Christ and satisfies our thirst for righteousness which Jesus spoke of in His sermon on the mount (Matthew 5:6). God, therefore, considers us perfect through our faith in Jesus.
4. What are the effects on someone regarding perfection who believes in Jesus?
- Faith in Christ eventually leads to the confirmation that we are truly imperfect.
- Faith in Christ provides one with a vision of true perfection.
- Faith in Christ provides a standard for measuring progress (becoming Christ like).
- Faith in Christ offers the believer a constant choice for thoughts and deeds.
5. Summarize the consequences of our choice as discussed in Galatians 5:13-25 and I Peter 1:5-7.
Those who choose imperfection will perish.
Those who strive for perfection will achieve it.
Although not a complete list, perfection is seen through the characteristics Paul and Peter outline.
We cannot attain perfection on our own. It is attained only through Jesus. There are Christlike characteristics seen as the Holy Spirit works in our lives. As we become more Christlike, these characteristics will become more a part of who we are and how we are seen.
6. Discuss the following statement:
Look for responses based on the listing in the text.
7. How can you use this lesson to grow spiritually and help others come into a relationship with Jesus?
God knows that we cannot be perfect, yet we want to. He satisfies this desire by offering us perfection through faith in Jesus Christ. The "good news" that Christians proclaim is that Jesus' perfection is transferred to those who have faith in Him (initially expressed in repentance and baptism – Acts 2:38). The "good" in this news is that perfection can now be obtained through a system of faith rather than a system of performance which no human can accomplish.