1. God does not want His children to stay at the same spiritual level -- He wants us to grow, develop, and mature. 2.In our lesson we are concentrating on a number of passages that will help us to fulfill this responsibility. 3.Let us begin by showing . . .
Discussion:
I.WHAT PERFECTION IS
A.We can learn what perfection is by defining "perfect" ["complete" as illustrated in 2 Chronicles 8:16] B.We can further understand what perfection is by observing why the Hebrew Christians were instructed to "go on unto perfection." 1.We learn from Hebrews 5:11-14 that these people had not matured spiritually. a.(vs.11) They were "dull of hearing." b.(vs.12) They had not developed into teachers. c.(vs.13) Spiritually, they were still babies. 2.We also learn from Hebrews 6:1-2 that these people needed to build up past the foundation. C. Now that we understand what perfection is, we need to point out that . . .
II.GOD MAKES HIS CHILDREN PERFECT
A.God wants His children to be perfect, but this is not something we can do ourselves -- it is God who makes us perfect (Hebrews 13:20-21; 1 Peter 5:10). B.We must understand that it is God who makes us perfect as we follow His instructions. C.This leads us to our next point . . .
III.GOD HAS GIVEN US WHAT WE NEED SO WE CAN GO ON UNTO PERFECTION
A.(2 Timothy 3:16-17) He has given us the Scriptures. 1.The Scriptures are profitable for: a."doctrine": teaching, instruction b."reproof": pointing out our ways which are wrong c."correction": restoring to an upright condition d."instruction in righteousness": teach us how to live righteous lives. 2.If we will benefit from this information revealed in the Scriptures, we will be "perfect" [completely equipped unto every good work]. 3.Let us remember the admonition given in 1 Peter 2:2: "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby." B.(Ephesians 4:11-13) The Lord also put teachers in the church "for the perfecting of the saints." 1.Teachers are responsible for communicating God's Word. 2.As we teach we must remember that one of our purposes is to help God's people become "perfect." C. Let us turn our attention to . . .
IV.SOME SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS THAT RELATE TO BEING PERFECT
A.We must treat our enemies correctly (Matthew 5:43-48). B.We must forget the past and press toward the mark (Philippians 3:13-15). C.We must face trials in the right way (James 1:2-5). D.We must bridle our tongues (James 3:2).
Conclusion:
1.We have shown that God wants His children to go on unto perfection. 2.Those who do so will be blessed (2 Corinthians 13:11). 3.The proper approach to going on unto perfection is revealed in Hebrews 6:3.
