Sede Perfeitos: Understanding Jesus' Call to Perfection

Understanding Jesus' commandment, "Sede perfeitos, assim como vosso Pai celeste é perfeito" (Matthew 5:48), often presents a challenge. Does it demand flawless behavior, a state unattainable in this mortal life? Or does it hold a deeper, more nuanced meaning? This article delves into the true essence of this call to perfection, shedding light on its implications for our lives.

The Nature of "Perfection"

The original Greek word translated as "perfect" carries a richer meaning than simply "without flaw." It signifies "complete," "whole," or "fully developed," suggesting the achievement of a final goal. This understanding transforms the seemingly impossible task of achieving sinless perfection into a lifelong journey of growth and transformation. It's not about eliminating every imperfection, but about striving towards completeness in our character and relationship with God.

This concept resonates deeply with the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which emphasizes continuous spiritual progress. We are imperfect beings in a mortal state, but through faith, repentance, and obedience, we can continuously grow closer to our divine potential.

The Path to "Sede Perfeitos"

The path toward becoming "sede perfeitos" isn't a solitary endeavor. It's a journey guided by divine grace and fueled by our commitment to following God's plan. Several key elements contribute to this process:

Faith in Jesus Christ

Faith in Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of our journey towards perfection. His Atonement makes it possible to overcome our weaknesses and imperfections. It provides the strength and grace necessary to persevere in our efforts. Without faith, our striving will be futile.

Covenant Making

Entering into sacred covenants with God strengthens our commitment to the path of perfection. These covenants, such as baptism and temple ordinances, provide a framework for our lives, guiding our actions and shaping our character. They bind us to our Heavenly Father and reinforce our desire to become more like Him.

Diligent Commandment Keeping

Obeying God's commandments isn't just about following a list of rules; it's about aligning our lives with His will. Each commandment is a step towards growth, refining our hearts and minds, and enabling us to become more Christlike. Through obedience, we cultivate virtue and strengthen our resolve to continuously strive for betterment.

Consistent Repentance

Repentance is an integral part of the journey towards "sede perfeitos." It's a continuous process of acknowledging our mistakes, turning away from sin, and seeking forgiveness. Repentance is not a sign of failure, but a testament to our willingness to grow and change. It allows us to overcome our shortcomings and move forward on the path of spiritual progress.

The Eternal Perspective

The ultimate goal of "sede perfeitos" is not achieved solely in this mortal life. Perfection, in its fullest sense, is a goal ultimately realized in the hereafter. Our earthly experiences are a phase in a larger, eternal plan. Our efforts here on earth prepare us for the ultimate glory and joy that awaits those who strive to follow God's plan. This eternal perspective provides hope and encouragement. It reminds us that our imperfections in this life don't negate our potential for eternal perfection. It encourages persistent effort, knowing that even with our imperfections, our Heavenly Father's plan promises a future of complete joy and fulfillment.

Misconceptions about "Sede Perfeitos"

It's crucial to address common misconceptions surrounding the phrase "sede perfeitos." This call is not a demand for unattainable flawlessness. It does not mean we will become sinless in this life, but rather that we should consistently strive to become more like our Heavenly Father.

This continuous striving, fueled by faith and repentance, is the essence of the journey towards "sede perfeitos." It’s about aligning our lives with God's plan, cultivating virtues, and striving to become the best versions of ourselves that we can be, with the ultimate goal being a complete and whole existence in the eternal perspective. This is a journey of lifelong learning, growth, and constant effort, not one of immediate perfection. The emphasis is on the continuous process, not the immediate result. The goal is not to be perfect in this life, but to perpetually strive towards perfection, knowing that with God's help and through consistent effort, we can achieve a greater measure of perfection in the eternities. This understanding transforms the daunting command into an inspiring invitation to a life of purpose and continuous spiritual growth.

Frequently Asked Questions about "Sede Perfeitos" (Be Ye Therefore Perfect)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the meaning and implications of Jesus' commandment in Matthew 5:48, "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect," drawing from various theological perspectives.

What does Jesus mean by "be ye therefore perfect"? Does it mean being sinless?

No, this command doesn't call for a sinless state attainable in this life. The original Greek word for "perfect" translates closer to "complete," "whole," or "fully developed." It's an invitation to strive for moral and spiritual maturity, mirroring Heavenly Father's character, rather than achieving flawless execution in every action. This is a lifelong journey of growth, not an immediate destination.

How can we strive for this "perfection" if we are inherently imperfect?

Heavenly Father's plan includes faith in Jesus Christ, covenant making, diligent commandment keeping, and consistent repentance. These actions, while not guaranteeing earthly perfection, invite blessings and pave the way for our eventual perfection after this life. The Atonement and Resurrection of Jesus Christ make this ultimate sanctification possible. Remember, the focus is on the journey of striving, fueled by faith and repentance.

What are the key characteristics of a person striving for this type of perfection?

A person striving for this "perfection" exhibits characteristics such as boundless charity (loving enemies, doing good to those who hate us), justice, love, trust in God's goodness, prioritizing spiritual over material wealth, selfless action, benevolence, forgiveness, humility, and a constant commitment to self-improvement. They also balance worldly obligations with spiritual purity, maintaining a pure heart and actively combating negative inclinations.

Is this "perfection" achievable only in the hereafter?

While ultimate perfection is realized in the hereafter, the journey towards it begins now. Progressive sanctification is experienced throughout one's life on earth. The emphasis is on the continuous process of striving for moral and spiritual maturity, fueled by faith, grace, and a commitment to continuous spiritual growth.

What role does repentance play in this pursuit of perfection?

Repentance is crucial. Recognizing our inherent imperfections, we must consistently repent and strive to do better. It's part of the ongoing process of growth and sanctification. This isn't about avoiding mistakes but about learning from them and moving forward with renewed commitment.

How does this concept relate to the various interpretations of Matthew 5:48?

Different interpretations exist, some focusing on ultimate perfection achieved only after death, others on progressive sanctification during life, but the central theme remains consistent: the imperative to emulate God's character as far as humanly possible through faith, grace, and a commitment to continuous spiritual growth. The verse is a call to a life of purposeful pursuit of holiness.

What is the difference between striving for perfection and being self-righteous?

Striving for perfection, as Jesus intended, is a humble pursuit driven by love and a desire to grow closer to God. It recognizes our inherent flaws and relies on God's grace. Self-righteousness, on the other hand, is characterized by pride and a belief in one's own inherent goodness, often leading to judgment and condemnation of others. The former is a journey of continuous growth, the latter a stagnant state of self-satisfaction.

How do material phenomena in Spiritism relate to this pursuit of perfection?

In Spiritism, as in Christianity, material phenomena should not be the sole focus. The moral and spiritual implications of faith are paramount. Spiritual growth and moral transformation are more important than the observation of spiritual phenomena.