TL;DR
The Christian journey to "perfection" isn't about being flawless, but about spiritual maturity and completeness. This process has faith as its essential, non-negotiable starting point. From this foundation of faith, believers are encouraged to diligently add specific qualities like goodness (excellence), knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, and brotherly kindness.
Let's explore a profound question at the heart of Christian living: How do we, as believers, journey towards "perfection"? It’s a word that can feel intimidating, often bringing to mind images of flawlessness or an impossible standard. However, in Christian theology, "perfection" is more often understood as spiritual maturity, completeness, or a lifelong process of being made holy and conformed to the image of Christ. It’s a dynamic path, not a static destination in this earthly life.
But before we can even begin to understand what Christian perfection might look like, or the steps involved in getting there, we must address the fundamental starting point: faith. Let’s unpack why faith is not just a starting point, but the foundational block on which everything else is built.
Why Faith is the Only Way to Begin
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When we talk about beginning this spiritual journey, the sources are clear: there is no other starting point in your relationship with God but faith. As the Scriptures powerfully declare, "without faith it is impossible to please God". This isn't just a suggestion; it’s a non-negotiable truth. If we wish to connect with God and embark on this transformative path, our very first step must be rooted in a deep, personal conviction that He exists and that He rewards those who diligently seek Him.
This isn't about intellectual agreement with a set of doctrines, though knowledge plays its part later. This foundational faith is a personal commitment to God. It’s about placing your trust in His goodness, His faithfulness, His wisdom, and His power, believing that if you follow His path, He will fulfill His promises in your life. Without this initial commitment, the journey simply doesn't begin.
Faith: The Launchpad for Growth
Think of your spiritual life like constructing a building. You wouldn't start by adding the roof or painting the walls; you'd begin with a solid foundation. In this analogy, faith is that essential foundation. Once that foundation is laid, you can begin to build upward, adding successive levels. The Apostle Peter, in 2 Peter 1:5-7, outlines a seven-step process for progressing towards perfection, and it explicitly begins with faith.
Peter encourages us to "make every effort to add to your faith...". This "adding process" reveals that faith is not a static state, but a dynamic force that propels you into action and development. It’s about faith expressing itself through love.
The very first step you add to your faith is goodness, or excellence. This isn't just about moral uprightness in a narrow sense. The Greek word arete (often translated "excellence" or "virtue") signifies efficiency and doing whatever you do right. It means that because of your faith, you should become better at your everyday tasks and responsibilities.
Let's consider a few relatable examples:
- If you are a student, your faith should motivate you to be a more diligent and excellent student, not less.
- If you are working a job, your faith should lead you to be an excellent employee, demonstrating integrity and commitment.
- If you are a young person at home, your faith should transform your relationships with your parents, leading to greater honor and obedience.
As the book of James reminds us, "faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead". Your faith is meant to produce visible results, serving as evidence of the change God is working within you.
Empowered by Grace, Not Human Striving Alone
It’s vital to understand that this journey towards perfection, initiated by faith and continuing through effort, is not achieved through human ability or willpower alone. The Christian life, particularly the path of sanctification (the process of becoming holy), is primarily God's work through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit.
God works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. Our "working out" of our salvation is a response to His "working in" us. This understanding frees us from the burden of perfectionism and self-doubt. God's grace is His unmerited gift, His unconditional love freely given. It provides the courage to take risks and to learn from mistakes, seeing them as opportunities for growth rather than reasons for shame. God is committed to completing the good work He began in you.
Christian traditions may interpret the precise nature and attainability of "perfection" in this life differently – some see it as a lifelong process culminating in glory, while others believe in an instantaneous "entire sanctification" leading to "perfect love. However, all agree that the journey begins with faith and is sustained by God’s grace.
Moving Forward
So, as you reflect on your own spiritual journey, consider this profound truth: faith is the bedrock. It's the essential starting point that unlocks the process of spiritual growth and development. It enables you to "add" goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and ultimately, perfect love to your life. Embrace this truth, lean into God's empowering grace, and trust that He is faithful to guide you every step of the way.
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