Matthew 5:48
Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
Original Language Analysis
οὖν
therefore
G3767
οὖν
therefore
Strong's:
G3767
Word #:
2 of 14
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
τέλειός
perfect
G5046
τέλειός
perfect
Strong's:
G5046
Word #:
4 of 14
complete (in various applications of labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.); neuter (as noun, with g3588) completeness
τοῖς
which
G3588
τοῖς
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πατὴρ
Father
G3962
πατὴρ
Father
Strong's:
G3962
Word #:
7 of 14
a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)
τοῖς
which
G3588
τοῖς
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοῖς
which
G3588
τοῖς
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
οὐρανοῖς
heaven
G3772
οὐρανοῖς
heaven
Strong's:
G3772
Word #:
12 of 14
the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)
Cross References
James 1:4But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.Leviticus 19:2Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy.Deuteronomy 18:13Thou shalt be perfect with the LORD thy God.Luke 6:36Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.Colossians 1:28Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:1 John 3:3And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.2 Corinthians 7:1Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.Luke 6:40The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.Genesis 17:1And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.Matthew 5:16Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Historical Context
Jewish holiness codes called for separation (קדושׁ, 'holy/set apart'), but Jesus redefines holiness as active, inclusive love mirroring God's universal grace. Leviticus 19:2 commands 'Be holy, for I am holy' - Jesus parallels this with 'be perfect, for your Father is perfect.' Early Christian perfectionist movements (Wesley's doctrine of entire sanctification, Holiness movement) wrestled with this verse's implications. The context suggests perfection in love, not absolute sinlessness in this life.
Questions for Reflection
- How does understanding 'perfect' as 'complete' or 'mature' change our interpretation of this command?
- In what ways does God's perfect, indiscriminate love challenge our selective compassion?
- What role does grace play in the command to moral perfection we cannot achieve?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus sets the ultimate standard: 'Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect' (Greek: τέλειοι, 'perfect/complete/mature'). The word τέλειος suggests completeness or reaching intended purpose, not sinless perfection. The conjunction 'therefore' (οὖν) connects this command to the preceding teaching on enemy-love - perfection is demonstrated in comprehensive, indiscriminate love reflecting God's character. 'As your Father' establishes God's perfection as both standard and motivation. This command climaxes the righteousness surpassing Pharisees (5:20) by demanding complete conformity to divine character.