Matthew 5:48

Be ye therefore. Christ concludes His six illustrations of the law’s higher spiritual application (vs. 21-47). Verse 48 relates closely to vs. 43-47. Christ shows that inner attitudes and motives determine character perfection, not outward acts alone. Man looks on outward appearance; God looks on the heart (1 Sam. 16:7).

Perfect. Greek teleios, “one who has reached the goal,” “complete,” from telos, “end,” “fulfillment,” “completion,” “limit.” Used in Greek literature of flawless sacrifices, mature animals and men, trained professionals.

Paul speaks of “them that are perfect” (1 Cor. 2:6) and “as many as be perfect” (Phil. 3:15), recognizing new heights to gain and his own imperfection.

Hebrew equivalent tam (Job 1:1; Prov. 11:3,5).

Jesus does not teach absolute sinlessness here (SC 62; EGW RH March 18, 1890). Sanctification is progressive.

Jews toiled to earn salvation by works, focusing on law’s letter and losing its spirit (Matt. 23:23). Jesus sought to turn attention from husks to wheat. Law was made an end in itself, forgetting its purpose to lift gaze to supreme love toward God and self-sacrificing love toward others (Matt. 22:34-40). Rabbis taught righteousness as excess of good over evil deeds credited in heaven.

Relationship of vs. 48 and 45: to be “children of your Father in heaven” (v. 45) is equivalent to being “perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect” (v. 48).

[End of commentary.]