What is the meaning of Matthew 5:48? Be perfect – Jesus issues a clear command, not a suggestion: “Be perfect.” The word pictures completeness—an undivided heart that loves God wholeheartedly (Deuteronomy 6:5; James 1:4). – Scripture repeatedly ties perfection to holiness. “You are to be holy, because I am holy” (Leviticus 19:2; echoed in 1 Peter 1:15-16). – Because we are born again through Christ (John 3:3; 2 Corinthians 5:17), we are empowered to pursue this wholeness. “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3-4). – Practical outworking: • Guard the heart (Proverbs 4:23). • Walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16-25). • Confess and forsake sin quickly (1 John 1:9). – The goal is likeness to Christ: “We proclaim Him…so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ” (Colossians 1:28-29). Therefore – “Therefore” links the command to the preceding six contrasts (Matthew 5:21-47) where Jesus moves from outward obedience to inward transformation. – It sums up the entire Sermon on the Mount section to this point: kingdom citizens display righteousness that “surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees” (Matthew 5:20). – Earlier statements flow logically into this conclusion: • Radical reconciliation (vv. 23-24). • Purity of eye and heart (vv. 27-30). • Truth-telling (vv. 33-37). • Non-retaliation and enemy-love (vv. 38-47). – The connecting “therefore” reminds us that perfection is not abstract; it is expressed in tangible, relational obedience (Romans 12:1-2). As your heavenly Father is perfect – The pattern and power come from the Father Himself. “Be imitators of God, therefore, as beloved children” (Ephesians 5:1-2). – His perfection shines especially in love. Luke’s parallel command says, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36), showing that divine perfection centers on covenant love and mercy. – Children resemble their Father (1 John 3:1-3). Because we have received His Spirit (Romans 8:15-16), we can reflect His character. – Ongoing transformation: “We all…are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory” (2 Corinthians 3:18). – The standard is high, but the supply is higher: “He who calls you is faithful, and He will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24). summary Matthew 5:48 calls believers to wholehearted, undivided devotion that mirrors the Father’s own perfect love and holiness. Rooted in the new birth, empowered by the Spirit, and worked out in daily obedience, this call summarizes Jesus’ kingdom ethic: live the Father’s character on earth. |
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