There are a number of absolutes in life.
She’s either pregnant or she’s not.
They’re either legally married or they’re not.
He’s either enrolled in a career-training program or he’s not.
Jesus is truly sitting on the throne of my heart as King — with authority over my decisions — or He’s not.
Against this backdrop of absolutes, I John 4:17 at first appears confusing.
“And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect.” (I John 4:17)
Wait a minute. Something is either perfect, or it isn’t, right?
This isn’t a statement of error but instead of degree, I believe.
There is no disputing among Bible scholars that the word “perfect” in scripture often should be understood as “complete.”
And so it makes sense to read and understand the verse above in this way — “And as we live in God, our love grows more complete.”
If I’m new believer and all I can quote of the Bible is John 3:16 when people asked why I “got religion,” I do well for the Kingdom and for the unsaved people in my life who need to know that Christ can still transform lives.
If in the month after my conversion I memorize and share a couple of verses about the amazing grace of God and the call to generous compassion toward others, I become more complete — “more perfect” — in my faith and provide a living, loving example of I John 4:17.
Let’s each make a commitment to become more complete in our living and loving as God’s children.
Let’s commit to memorizing more scripture to share with others who don’t know the Bible.
It’s the perfect choice.
As always, I love you
Martin
