Christian living Quote by Kenda Creasy Dean
““Part of our skittishness about Christian perfection is linguistic confusion. The English word "perfect" has absorbed the Greek notion of "teleos". When the Greeks looked at a building's blueprint, they pictured the building whole and complete. They envisioned the blueprint finished down to the bathroom tile and announced, "Ah, this is perfect." The problem is that "teleos" suggests that perfection is something we can build or achieve. The Hebrews looked at the same blueprint more practically. They envisioned the process of building from hard hats to hammers, from scaffolding to skylights. "Ah," the Hebrews said. "This is perfect." The Hebrews and the early Christians understood perfection as a process, not a product. Our identity as Christians depends upon life lived in relationship with God, not upon the quality of our achievements.””
About This Quote
The term “perfect” is misunderstood; Greek view sees perfection as a completed blueprint, while Hebrew view sees it as an ongoing process, emphasizing relationship over achievement.
In simple terms: Greek perfection is a finished product; Hebrew perfection is a continual process tied to relationship with God.
Key Takeaway
Focus on growth and relationship rather than flawless outcomes.
Themes
theology
language
perfection
process
relationship
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
educational
Type
theological
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- church teaching
- personal spiritual practice
- theological study
- faith formation
- ethical decision making
Key Concepts
Greek teleology
Hebrew process view
Christian identity
spiritual growth
Questions to Reflect On
- How does viewing perfection as a process affect daily life?
- In what ways can we shift from product to process mindset?
A Different Perspective
Perfection as a static goal can cause anxiety and legal‑ism.
