Can Christians, in good faith, hold that God is not perfect [i.e. not complete]?
Upvote:1
First and foremost, we need to discern if the English word ' perfect ' as used in Mtt 5: 48 is the perfect translation of the original. The Common English Version uses the term ' complete'. Mind that many languages do not have words which can be called perfectly matching counterparts of the English word. Now, is there a difference between someone or something being ' complete ' vis-a- vis being ' perfect ' ? The Earth, as our dwelling place is a complete entity, but in terms of geometry, it tilts, and is therefore not perfect ! And that is only one of the myriads of examples where completeness versus perfection. So, myself, as a Roman Syrian Catholic, prefer not to ' think in English ' when it comes to Mtt 5:48 . Hope this explains.
Upvote:2
The Bible says our Father in heaven, who is God, is perfect.
Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. (Matthew 5:32, KJV)
That should settle the matter for Bible-believing Christians. If that verse were insufficient, there are more that agree with it.
He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he. (Deuteronomy 32:4, KJV)
As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him. (2 Samuel 22:31, KJV)
As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him. (Psalm 18:30, KJV)
The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. (Psalm 19:7, KJV)
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:2, KJV)
Summarizing these verses, we see that:
- His work is perfect.
- His way is perfect.
- His law is perfect.
- His will is perfect.
In short, the Bible teaches that God is perfect. Only the faithless, those who do not know Him or His Word, would question this.
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