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Wednesday, August 28, 2024

Sermon on Perfection

 Complementary and compliment are two words that sound similar but have different meanings.

Complementary means to complete or enhance something else. For example, a complementary color is one that goes well with another color.

Compliment means to praise or express admiration for someone or something. For example, you might give someone a compliment on their new haircut.

Here's a quick breakdown:

    Complementary: To complete or enhance
    Compliment: To praise or admire

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10 Bible Verses Related to Perfection

Note: While the Bible often speaks of striving for perfection, it's important to understand that human perfection is unattainable in this life. These verses primarily emphasize the pursuit of holiness and righteousness.

  •     Matthew 5:48: "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
  •      Philippians 3:12-14: "Not that I have already attained, or am already perfect; but I press on, to lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me."
  •     Colossians 3:12: "As God's chosen people, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience."
  •      Hebrews 12:14: "Strive for peace with all men, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord."
  •     James 1:4: "But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing."
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  •     2 Corinthians 13:11: "Finally, brothers, rejoice. Make progress. Be encouraged. Be united. Live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you."
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  •     1 John 4:18: "There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love."   
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  • Psalm 19:7: "The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple."
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  • Romans 12:2: "Do not conform to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, that you may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God."  
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  • Ephesians 4:13: "Until we all attain to the unity of the faith and the full knowledge of the Son of God, to mature adulthood, to the measure of the fullness of Christ."

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 Theological Explanations for the Verses

Concerning God's Perfection

  1. Deuteronomy 32:4: God's perfection is emphasized in His justice, truth, and righteousness. His ways are beyond reproach and serve as a standard for all.
  2. Psalm 18:30: God's ways are perfect, and His word is reliable. He is a protector and a source of security for those who trust in Him.
  3. Psalm 19:7: The law of the LORD is perfect and has the power to transform lives. It provides wisdom and guidance for all.

Concerning Christ's Perfection

  1. Hebrews 2:10: Jesus' perfection was achieved through His sufferings. As the captain of our salvation, He leads us to glory.
  2. Hebrews 7:28: The Levitical priesthood was limited in its ability to make people perfect. Jesus, however, is a perfect high priest who offers eternal salvation.

Concerning Human Perfection

  1. Matthew 5:48: This verse calls for a high standard of moral perfection, reflecting God's own perfection. It challenges us to strive for holiness in all aspects of our lives.
  2. Colossians 3:12: Human perfection is characterized by qualities such as mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. These virtues are essential for a godly life.
  3. James 3:2: True perfection involves controlling our words and actions. A person who can do this is considered perfect and capable of self-discipline.
  4. 1 John 4:18: Perfect love casts out fear. Those who truly love God and others are free from fear and anxiety.
  5. 2 Corinthians 12:9: God's grace is sufficient for our needs, even in times of weakness. His strength is made perfect in our weaknesses, enabling us to rely on Him.

These verses provide a rich theological understanding of perfection, emphasizing God's perfect nature, Christ's perfect sacrifice, and the pursuit of human perfection through faith and obedience.

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The word "perfection" derives from the Latin word "perfectio,

" which is a combination of two elements:

    "per-": This prefix means "through," "completely," or "thoroughly."
    "fectio": This comes from the verb "facere," meaning "to make" or "to do."

Therefore, "perfection" essentially means "the state of being made complete or thorough." It implies a state of being without flaw or defect.

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Imperfect Food Dishes

These are dishes that may not be considered "perfect" due to various reasons, such as appearance, texture, or taste, but can still be delicious and enjoyable.

Appearance Imperfections:

  • Unevenly cooked vegetables: Vegetables that are slightly overcooked or undercooked can have a different texture and appearance.
  • Misshapen cookies: Cookies that don't come out perfectly round or uniform in size can still taste great.
  • Unevenly browned pancakes: Pancakes that are browned more on one side than the other can still be delicious.

Texture Imperfections:

  • Overcooked pasta: Pasta that is a bit too soft can still be enjoyable, especially in certain dishes.
  • Undercooked eggs: Eggs that are slightly undercooked can have a runny yolk, which some people prefer.
  • Slightly chewy meat: Meat that is cooked to medium-rare or medium can be slightly chewy, but it can also be flavorful.

Taste Imperfections:

  • Slightly oversalted soup: Soup that is a bit too salty can still be delicious if balanced with other flavors.
  • Underseasoned salad: A salad that lacks a bit of seasoning can be easily improved with a dressing or a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
  • Slightly burnt toast: Toast that is slightly burnt can have a unique flavor that some people enjoy.

Remember, these imperfections can often add character and uniqueness to a dish. Don't be afraid to experiment and embrace the imperfections!

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Perfection in Verb Tense

The concept of perfection, in the context of verb tenses, often relates to the perfect aspect. The perfect aspect indicates that an action is completed before a specific point in time.

Here are the perfect tenses and their meanings:

  • Past Perfect: This tense indicates that an action was completed before another past action.
    • Example: "I had finished my homework before the movie started."
  • Present Perfect: This tense indicates that an action is completed in the past but has a connection to the present.
    • Example: "I have lived in this city for five years."
  • Future Perfect: This tense indicates that an action will be completed before a specific time in the future.
    • Example: "I will have finished my project by the end of the week."

The perfect aspect often implies a sense of completion or finality. For example, the sentence "I have eaten dinner" suggests that the act of eating dinner is finished.

However, it's important to note that the specific meaning of the perfect aspect can vary depending on the context and the speaker's intent. In some cases, the perfect aspect might imply a continuous action that has reached a certain point, rather than a completely finished action.

For instance, the sentence "I have been studying for hours" implies that the action of studying has continued for a long time, but it doesn't necessarily mean that the studying is completely finished.

In summary, the perfect aspect in verb tenses often conveys a sense of completion or finality, but the precise meaning can vary depending on the context and the speaker's intention.

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Closure and Perfection: A Complementary Relationship

Closure and perfection are closely related concepts, often intertwined in various philosophical, psychological, and spiritual contexts. While perfection often implies a state of absolute completeness or flawlessness, closure suggests a sense of resolution, completion, or finality.

Here are some key aspects of their relationship:

  1. Perfection as a Goal: In many contexts, perfection is seen as an ideal or goal. Achieving perfection can often involve a sense of closure, as it signifies the attainment of a desired state or outcome. For instance, a musician may strive for perfect pitch, and once achieved, they may feel a sense of closure and satisfaction.
  2. Closure as a Necessary Step: Sometimes, closure is necessary to move forward. For example, after a loss or a traumatic event, individuals may seek closure to process their emotions and heal. This closure can involve accepting the situation, finding meaning in it, or taking steps to move on.
  3. Imperfection and Closure: While perfection may be an ideal, it is often unattainable. Recognizing and accepting imperfection can be a crucial step toward closure. Understanding that life is not always perfect can help individuals find peace and acceptance.
  4. Closure and Completion: Closure often involves a sense of completion or finality. It can be the end of a chapter, a relationship, or a project. This closure can provide a sense of resolution and allow individuals to move on to new beginnings.

In essence, closure can be seen as a way to achieve a sense of peace and resolution, even in the face of imperfection. It is a process of acceptance, understanding, and moving forward, often leading to a greater sense of wholeness and fulfillment.

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Perfection in the Context of Well-Digging

The concept of perfection, while often associated with abstract ideas or ideals, can also be applied to practical tasks like well-digging. In this context, perfection would mean creating a well that is:

  • Functional: It successfully reaches a water source and provides a reliable supply.
  • Efficient: It is dug with minimal waste of time, energy, or resources.
  • Safe: It poses no hazards to those using it or living nearby.
  • Durable: It is constructed to withstand the elements and last for a long time.

While absolute perfection might be unattainable in this or any other human endeavor, striving for it can lead to significant improvements in quality and efficiency. A well-digger who seeks perfection might:

  • Use advanced techniques: Employing modern tools and methods can increase accuracy and reduce the risk of errors.
  • Consider the environment: Ensuring that the well is dug in a way that minimizes disruption to the ecosystem.
  • Prioritize safety: Taking precautions to prevent accidents or contamination of the water supply.
  • Seek feedback: Gathering input from those who will use the well to identify areas for improvement.

By pursuing perfection in well-digging, individuals can contribute to the well-being of their communities and help to ensure a sustainable supply of water for future generations.

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Perfection and Altar Building: A Theological Perspective

The concept of perfection, as illustrated in the building of altars, often reflects the idea of a sacred space that is pure, complete, and free from any flaws or imperfections. This aligns with the theological understanding of God as perfect and holy, and the desire for humans to create spaces that are worthy of His presence.

Key aspects of perfection in altar building:

    Purity: Altars are often constructed of pure materials, such as stone or wood, symbolizing the purity required for worship. The materials used should be free from any defects or impurities that would defile the sacred space.
    Completeness: The altar should be complete in its design and construction. This suggests that no aspect of the altar should be lacking or incomplete, as it would detract from its sacred purpose.
    Alignment: The altar is often aligned with specific directions or celestial bodies, such as the east or the sun. This alignment symbolizes the proper orientation and connection to the divine.
    Dedication: The altar is often dedicated to a specific deity or purpose. This dedication signifies its specific role in worship and its alignment with the divine will.

Theological significance:

    Reflection of God's perfection: The construction of a perfect altar reflects the desire to create a space that is worthy of God's presence. It acknowledges God's perfection and holiness, and seeks to emulate that perfection in the sacred space.
    Symbol of human aspiration: The pursuit of perfection in altar building can be seen as a symbol of human aspiration for holiness and righteousness. It reflects the desire to connect with the divine and to live a life that is free from sin and imperfection.
    Means of communion: The altar serves as a means of communion between humans and the divine. It is a place of sacrifice, prayer, and worship, where humans can connect with God and receive His blessings.

In conclusion, the concept of perfection in altar building reflects the idea of a sacred space that is pure, complete, and aligned with the divine. It is a symbol of human aspiration for holiness and righteousness, and a means of communion with God.

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1. God's Perfect Creation:

  • Divine Intent: God, as the creator of all, is believed to have intended to create a perfect world. This perfection is often understood in terms of harmony, beauty, and goodness.
  • Harmony and Order: The natural world is seen as a testament to God's perfect design. The intricate balance of ecosystems, the beauty of nature, and the laws of physics are all indicative of a divine plan.
  • Beauty and Goodness: Creation is often described as beautiful and good. This beauty and goodness are understood to be a reflection of God's own nature.

2. Human Sin and Imperfection:

  • Fall from Perfection: The biblical narrative of the Fall of Man suggests that humanity's sin has disrupted the original perfection of Creation. This disruption is often understood as a result of disobedience to God's commands.
  • Consequences of Sin: The consequences of sin are seen in the suffering, pain, and evil that exist in the world. These are often interpreted as a result of humanity's departure from God's original plan.

3. Restoration and Redemption:

  • Hope for Restoration: Many religious traditions offer hope for the restoration of Creation and humanity's redemption. This restoration is often understood as a result of God's grace and mercy.
  • New Heaven and New Earth: The concept of a "new heaven and new earth" in the Bible suggests that God will ultimately restore Creation to its original perfection.

4. Different Perspectives on Perfection:

  • Cultural and Religious Variations: The concept of perfection can vary across different cultures and religious traditions. Some may emphasize the perfection of the natural world, while others may focus on the perfection of the divine.
  • Individual Interpretations: Individuals may also have different interpretations of the concept of perfection based on their personal experiences and beliefs.

In conclusion, the concept of perfection as illustrated by Creation is a complex theological theme that has been explored by various religious and philosophical traditions. It involves understanding God's divine intent, the impact of human sin, and the hope for restoration and redemption.

 

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Unusual Ways God used creatures to do a task

 

Unusual Ways God Used Creatures to Do a Task

The Bible is filled with stories of God using creatures in unexpected and miraculous ways to accomplish His purposes. Here are a few examples:

1. The Raven and Elijah:

  • Task: Feeding Elijah during a drought.
  • Unusual Aspect: A bird, typically associated with scavenging, was used to provide sustenance to a prophet.

2. The Lion and Daniel:

  • Task: Protecting Daniel in the lions' den.
  • Unusual Aspect: Carnivorous predators, known for their danger, were miraculously prevented from harming a man.

3. The Fish and Jonah:

  • Task: Delivering Jonah to the land after a three-day ordeal in the belly of a fish.
  • Unusual Aspect: A marine creature was used as a vessel to transport a human across a great distance.

4. The Talking Donkey and Balaam:

  • Task: Speaking to Balaam, a prophet.
  • Unusual Aspect: A donkey, typically seen as a dumb animal, was given the ability to communicate with a human.

5. The Serpent and the Israelites:

  • Task: Leading the Israelites through the wilderness.
  • Unusual Aspect: A serpent, often associated with danger and evil, was used as a guide and protector.

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The concept of perfection in heaven is a central theme in many religious and philosophical traditions. While the specific details may vary, the general idea is that heaven is a place of ultimate fulfillment, happiness, and freedom from suffering. Here are some key aspects of perfection in heaven:

1. Absence of Sin and Suffering:

  • Sinless Environment: Heaven is often depicted as a place free from sin, where evil and temptation do not exist.
  • No Pain or Suffering: Residents of heaven experience no physical or emotional pain, and suffering is completely absent.

2. Eternal Life and Happiness:

  • Immortality: Those in heaven enjoy eternal life, free from the limitations of mortality.
  • Infinite Happiness: Heaven is a place of unending joy and fulfillment, where every desire is satisfied.

3. Union with God or Divine Beings:

  • Closeness to God: In many traditions, heaven is seen as a place of intimate union with God or divine beings.
  • Divine Presence: The presence of God or divine beings is believed to permeate heaven, providing a sense of peace and fulfillment.

4. Beauty and Harmony:

  • Perfect Environment: Heaven is often described as a place of extraordinary beauty and harmony, with no imperfections or flaws.
  • Natural Beauty: The natural world in heaven is often depicted as a paradise, with lush landscapes, vibrant colors, and a harmonious balance of all things.

5. Fulfillment of Desires and Longings:

  • Perfect Fulfillment: All of humanity's deepest desires and longings are fulfilled in heaven, leading to a sense of ultimate satisfaction.
  • No Regrets or Unfulfilled Dreams: Residents of heaven experience no regrets or unfulfilled dreams, as all their desires are perfectly met.

It's important to note that the specific details of perfection in heaven may vary across different religious and philosophical traditions. However, the general concept of a place of ultimate fulfillment, happiness, and freedom from suffering is a common theme in many belief systems.

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 "Eye hath not seen" is a phrase often used to describe something that is beyond human comprehension or experience. It's taken from the Bible, specifically 1 Corinthians 2:9:

"Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him."   

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 Outline of the Text:

I. Introduction

    Definition of complementary and compliment
    Purpose of the outline

II. Complementary

    Definition and examples
    Relationship to other concepts (e.g., opposites, synonyms)

III. Compliment

    Definition and examples
    Relationship to other concepts (e.g., flattery, praise)

IV. Comparison and Contrast

    Key differences between complementary and compliment
    When to use each word appropriately

V. Conclusion

    Summary of the main points
    Final thoughts or insights


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