1 Thessalonians 3:6-13

I think, therefore I am. French philosopher Rene Descartes wrote that in 1637 in Latin as “Cogito, ergo sum.” He did not write “I think I am perfect, therefore I am.” I belong to that part of Christianity that believes in Christian perfection, but that does not mean I believe I’m perfect.

Christian perfection teaches that when a Christian totally consecrates themselves to God, He sanctifies them. However, our definition of perfect, creates problems. As I am using it, perfection does not mean without room for improvement; it means perfectly fulfilling the requirements. What is perfect today is unlikely to be perfect tomorrow. The passage of time creates a necessity for change. When Paul heard Timothy’s report about the progress of the Christians at Thessalonica, he was thrilled. Timothy brought good news about their faith and love. I believe Paul considered Timothy’s description as that of a perfect church. They were a source of both great encouragement and great joy for Paul. However, Paul was aware that just as a perfect newborn baby must grow to become a perfect child, the same is true for Christians. The doctrine of Christian perfection does not teach that we reach perfection and it is finished. It teaches that as we live a consecrated life, God is perfecting us. The necessity for growth means there is continuous need for growing in perfection.

Paul references this when he tells the Thessalonians that he hopes to come to them in order that he might help them by supplying what is lacking in their faith. They loved God, they loved each other and they loved those in the world and that was perfect. However their love needed to increase and overflow. They were strong in faith, but their hearts needed to be strengthened daily in order that they might continue being blameless and holy.

When we consecrated ourselves to God, He perfected us, and as we live in obedience, He is perfecting us. We look to eternity when He will perfect us completely.