About the Christ Perfect Project
The Christ Perfect project aims to explore the multifaceted concept of perfection within Christian theology through a series of interviews with pastors and theologians across the country. Our goal is to gather diverse perspectives on key questions: Was Jesus truly perfect? If so, are believers called to a similar state of perfection? And practically, how can one strive for holiness in their daily lives?
Through these interviews, we seek to foster a deeper understanding of these profound theological topics, providing valuable insights and encouraging thoughtful discussion within the broader Christian community. This project is designed to be an accessible resource for anyone grappling with these essential questions of faith and spiritual growth.
Scroll down to continue exploring
An Enduring Question of Perfection
The concept of "perfection" in Christian theology is both profound and challenging. It shapes how believers understand God, their identity in Christ, and their spiritual journey. This exploration delves into the perfection of Christ and the corresponding call to holiness for humanity, navigating the tension between an unattainable ideal and a clear biblical command.
Part 1: Was Jesus Truly Perfect?
A central belief of Christian theology is the sinless perfection of Jesus Christ. Within this framework, theological examination addresses the specific nature of his perfection, resulting in two primary doctrines.
The first, known as peccability, posits that Christ's full humanity included the capacity to sin. Proponents of this view state that for his temptations to be authentic and for him to serve as a relatable human example, the choice to sin must have been a real possibility which he overcame.
The second doctrine, impeccability, asserts that it was impossible for Christ to sin. This position is based on the hypostatic union of his divine and human natures, holding that his inherent divine holiness made any act of sin a metaphysical impossibility. Both views operate within the shared affirmation of his actual, lived sinlessness.
Click tabs below to learn more about each view
Part 2: The Human Call to Perfection
The perfection of Christ, as documented in Scripture, serves as the standard for a corresponding call to His followers. This biblical injunction for believers to be "perfect" is theologically framed as a call to sanctification. This term describes the ongoing process of being made holy and maturing in faith. The interpretation of how this spiritual journey unfolds—its means, its progression, and what can be achieved in this life—varies significantly. Distinct Christian traditions have each formed their own understanding of this path toward holiness.
Part 3: The Path of Sanctification
The journey of becoming more like Christ is a partnership between divine grace and human participation. It is fostered through active spiritual disciplines that open our lives to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. Below are key practices on this path, all pointing back to Jesus as both our ultimate example and the very source of our ability to change.
Study of Scripture
Engaging God's Word renews the mind and equips believers to resist temptation, providing the blueprint for a holy life.
Constant Prayer
Cultivating a continuous conversation with God deepens the relationship and aligns the heart with His will, in solitude or in company.
Community & Accountability
Active participation in a church body provides mutual encouragement, wisdom, and support in the shared journey of growth.
Active Service & Love
Living out one's faith through acts of justice, kindness, and humility is the natural outflow of a transformed heart.
Imitating Jesus' Example
Jesus' sinless life, patient suffering, and perfect obedience provide the ultimate pattern for believers to follow.
Relying on Jesus' Power
More than an example, Christ is the source of our perfection. His atoning work enables our transformation by grace.
Schedule Your Interview
Interested in participating in the "Christ Perfect" video project? Click the button below to schedule a time for your interview on our external calendar page.
Schedule Interview