A More Perfect You
The Pursuit of Perfection in Christ
Conditional or Actual Perfection?
Teaching Strategy
The focus of this lesson is on deepening our understanding of the concept of perfection. Of special note is the relationship between conditional perfection and actual perfection.
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. Discuss conditional and actual perfection.
Conditional perfection is when we are saved. It is a gift from God given at our baptism. It enables us to come before God in prayer without fear of death for our sins. It is considered conditional because we receive it through faith in Jesus Christ.
Actual perfection is seen in the ways we grow spiritually to become more Christlike. We should be able to measure this as we compare our spirituality from when we began our Christian walk to how we live now. It is considered actual because it is seen in actual our faithfulness to our Lord.
Although we've been granted salvation (conditional perfection), we grow in our actual perfection as we follow the teachings of Jesus Christ found in the Bible.
2. What is the term used to describe conditional perfection in each of the following scriptures?
3. What is the term used to describe actual perfection in each of the following scriptures and how do they differ from conditional perfection?
4. Why should we seek to be like Christ?
Jesus is perfect. He is the standard for righteousness. He teaches us how to live life in the Kingdom of God.
5. If perfection in Christ is attained when we obey the gospel, then why should we seek to grow spiritually?
Although we are saved when we obey the gospel, we are as infants in our knowledge and ability to serve God. Growing spiritually enables us to become more like Christ, and in doing so we improve our ability to serve, are better equipped to withstand Satan's attacks and learn how to more effectively lead others to Christ.
6. What are likely consequences of not seeking to grow spiritually to actual perfection, and how can we overcome the consequences?
Our imperfect past will draw us back into a life that will weaken and destroy our faith. This is a major lesson from the Book of Hebrews and Paul's writings to the Galatians. We overcome this by seeking and following God's will throughout our lives.
7. How can you use this lesson to grow spiritually and help others come into a relationship with Jesus?
God understands our weaknesses in attaining actual perfection in this life. He expects faithfulness in order to grow spiritually. God promises continued forgiveness (conditional perfection) as we strive faithfully to attain actual perfection (Christlikeness).