In the fifth chapter of Matthew Jesus gives us a recipe for perfection. It teaches that this entails more than the letter of the law, but reveals the spirit of the law. It involves how we think and how we react to the pressures and problems of everyday life. Do we worship God with all our strength (rules 1-4), and do we love others as we do ourselves (rules 5-10)? Even the best of us, those who are considered saints, are not necessarily perfect. In fact, Paul tells us that the purpose of preachers and teachers is "for the perfecting of the saints" (Eph. 4:12). Evidently then, perfection is progressive. No one can honestly say that they are perfect. Then what does it mean to be perfect as our Father in heaven is perfect? That would seem to be an insurmountable goal. We are all assailed by the besetting sins of appetite and lust and by the temptations of Satan. The blueprint in the fifth chapter of Matthew gives us a picture of what God is like: He is humble and gracious, He is compassionate, He is righteous, He is merciful, He is pure of heart, He is peace loving and long-suffering, He is law abiding, He is just, He is generous, He is faithful, He is truthful, He keeps His promises, He is loving and kind. Jesus says that if you would be perfect like the Father, you will be like this. But it is not our nature to be like this; we are inclined to be selfish, proud, wrathful, deceptive, impatient, unkind, and unforgiving. We have a constant struggle for self-improvement through the power of the Spirit to reach the goal of perfection. This process is called sanctification.
I am reminded of the story told about George Washington Carver who was a black slave to a wealthy southern lady. One day she asked him to go out and clean the chicken house. He took a broom and a shovel and proceeded to do the job to his own satisfaction. However, to the discerning eye of his mistress, it was still a mess. She told him that the shed was not up to her standard of cleanliness, and that he should try again. After three such trials for perfection his efforts were rewarded with a "well done."
Isn't that the way we are? We are so blinded by our sinful nature and Satan's deceitfulness that we can't see the dirt in our house. Therefore, it is the work of a lifetime to zealously pursue a clean house, to attain perfection, and when we do this, it is counted to us for righteousness, and one day we shall receive from our Master the "well done." This is the ultimate goal for "perfecting saints."
