Life Quote by Jay E. Adams
““It is wrong to think of the present imperfect existence as the more real situation and the perfect record that we have in Christ merely as the ideal toward which we must grow. Perfection (if either) is more real for the Christian than imperfection, since the ultimate proper and eternal state of every Christian will be a state of perfection. There can be no uncertainty about this since the eternal sinlessness of every believer has been secured by the work of God in Christ and the Spirit. The present imperfections are unnatural and temporary. They are, therefore, in this sense less real than the eternal perfection obtained in Christ since, unlike that perfection, inevitably they will pass away. That which is imperfect and sinful, indeed, already is passing away;6 ultimately it must give way completely to that which is perfect.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Theology of the Christian Life by Jay E. Adams, 1975
Christian doctrine holds that present flaws are temporary, while eternal perfection in Christ is the ultimate reality.
In simple terms: Present flaws are temporary; eternal perfection is real.
Key Takeaway
Seek spiritual growth toward Christ’s perfection.
Themes
theity
eternity
spiritual growth
Mood
hopeful
reflective
Type
theological
inspirational
When to use this quote
- Personal repentance
- church teaching
- daily prayer
- life counseling
Key Concepts
Doctrine of sanctification
Christology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you reconcile present struggles with the promise of perfection?
- What practices help you move toward spiritual maturity?
A Different Perspective
Human imperfection may persist despite belief.
