A More Perfect You
The Pursuit of Perfection in Christ
The Holy Spirit and Perfection
Teaching Strategy
The focus of this lesson is on how the Holy Spirit works in our lives in the areas of conditional and actual perfection. Of special note is an understanding of our spiritual experiences in worship and how the Holy Spirit channels blessings from our Lord.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Know: Understand true spirituality in our worship and other interactions with God.
- Feel: Explain the concept of worshiping in spirit and truth.
- Do: Practice our faith in ways that are acceptable to God.
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. Use the text to discuss the following questions:
It is initially granted by God when we obey His commands for our repentance and baptism.
Conditional perfection – given upon our repentance and baptism.
Actual perfection – granted as we continue to grow and mature in our Christlikeness.
2. How is the pursuit of actual perfection a powerful witness to those without Christ?
- It sets Christians apart as they seek to obey the Lord's teachings, grow in the fruit of the Spirit and live faithful lives.
- Our choice to pursue actual perfection brings honor to God.
3. The text discusses two problems associated with adding activities and other human derived elements to worship to heighten the spiritual experience. Use the text to discuss these two problems.
Elitism – What are some sins associated with the practice of elitism in connection with worship?
There are many violations of God's commands (sins) when we deviate from His will. Two that might immediately come to mind are:
- Pride – Setting oneself up above others and putting the focus on self rather than God
- Division – Causing division among believers before God.
Progressives – In what way is the progressive view correct and incorrect?
- Correct – The continued effort to make faith relevant to new generations.
- Incorrect – Using superficial changes to adapt worship to a modern culture.
Traditionalists – How are traditionalists correct and incorrect?
- Correct – Any change that compromises scripture is dangerous (as an understatement).
- Incorrect – Thinking their view is the only acceptable way for things to be done.
4. The following questions relate to the discussion of loss of faith.
From hearing the words of Christ. The implication is that not hearing (applying) the words of Christ causes a loss of faith.
As Paul states in Romans 10:17, we develop and grow in faith through hearing (applying) the teachings of Jesus. If our attitudes and actions in worship are not as Jesus teaches, we are weakening our faith and that of others. An all-to-often result is spiritual burn out rather than spiritual strengthening as one seeks a heightened sense of spirituality using only man-made formulas or practices.
5. What is the purpose of worship and how does it impact our spiritual feelings and experiences?
Worship is our opportunity to offer praise and thanksgiving to God and to lay our burdens at His feet through prayer.
Legitimate spiritual feelings and experiences are generated by the Holy Spirit as we pursue actual perfection. This comes through our knowledge and sharing of the gift of salvation. This should also produce humility, gratitude, peace and true happiness. These are byproducts of our worship and interaction with God.
6. How does Jesus' response to the Samaritan woman in John 4:24 relate to the Spirit's role in our pursuit of actual perfection and how does this verse speak to the concepts of elitism, progressivism and traditionalism?
In the context of John 4:24, Jesus was answering a question about the acceptable location of worship. Jesus provides the insight into God's will that there needs to be a proper balance of truth and spirit. Truth without spirit is a legalistic activity focusing on process. Although process is important, God wants our heart more than our actions (See David's prayer to God in Psalms 51:10; Psalms 51:15-17).
Spirituality without truth is a focus on emotion and can easily be manipulated in a direction away from God's will. This is not restricted to the process of worship (i.e. instrumental music, misunderstanding and misapplying "spiritual gifts", and other activities we see in unacceptable forms of worship). Therefore, the proper balance of adherence to God will and the spiritual and emotional elements are important. We have legitimate spiritual needs that should be met as we understand that we are worshipping our gracious and forgiving Lord.
7. How can you use this lesson to grow spiritually and help others come into a relationship with Jesus?
Unity among believers is a critical characteristic of those that seek to obey God (See Proverbs 6:16-19). It was also part of the prayer by Jesus on the eve of His arrest (John 17). We must strive for unity with God primarily, but also for unity as the Body of Christ (the Church) in our worship, devotion to God and our building up of each other. In this, we do the will of God and strengthen our faith.