Can Christians, in good faith, hold that God is not perfect [i.e. not complete]?

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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:

  1. His work is perfect.
  2. His way is perfect.
  3. His law is perfect.
  4. 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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