I recently came across a few definitions that impact how I think about perfection.
In Wrestling with the Restoration, Steven C. Harper writes about Ephesians 4:12–13, which teaches that the Church’s purpose is “for the perfecting of the saints … till we all come in the unity of the faith … unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ” (emphasis added).
“I do not interpret the word perfecting in that passage as flawless or mistake-free,” Harper explains. “The Greek word translated as perfecting conveys the idea of equipping or preparing, not flawlessness.”
The Definition of Katartismós
Harper references Dr. James Strong’s Greek Dictionary, which translates καταρτισμό or katartismós as “complete furnishing (objectively):—perfecting.” The source also draws from Larry Pierce’s Outline of Biblical Usage, which defines the word in the context of Ephesians 4:12 as “complete furnishing, equipping.”
This meaning helps clear away any pressure we might feel about trying to become perfect. After all, as humans, we can never become flawless or mistake-free on our own.
What we can do is allow Christ to equip or prepare us to become complete in Him. Covenants and active participation in His Church are essential ways that we become spiritually equipped to improve each day.
As former Relief Society General President Jean B. Bingham has taught:
“The spiritual equipment that keeps us from being broken on the rocks of adversity is our testimony of Jesus Christ and the covenants we make. We can rely on these supports to guide and carry us to safety. As our willing partner, the Savior will not allow us to fall beyond His reach.”
The Definition of Téleios
Harper also points out the difference between the Greek words for “perfecting” and “perfect.” The latter—τέλειος or téleios—is defined as “complete” or fully grown.
Similarly, President Russell M. Nelson has expounded on the definition of téleios:
“Please note that the word does not imply freedom from error; it implies achieving a distant objective. In fact, when writers of the Greek New Testament wished to describe perfection of behavior—precision or excellence of human effort—they did not employ a form of teleios; instead, they chose different words. …
“The perfection that the Savior envisions for us is much more than errorless performance. It is the eternal expectation as expressed by the Lord in His great intercessory prayer to His Father—that we might be made perfect and be able to dwell with them in the eternities ahead.”
While we are equipping or preparing for this spiritual destination, we can remember who ultimately will perfect us. Acknowledging our need for the Savior helps us have more patience with ourselves and others when we inevitably make mistakes.
“I try to remember what the Church is of—The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” Harper writes. “It is composed of the perfect Christ along with imperfect Saints working together.”
So, while you’re still in the process of perfecting, allow the Savior to equip and prepare you. He can furnish you with everything you need to be able to return to live with God someday.
More articles for you:
▶ 2 thought-provoking Greek words shared by Pres. Nelson
▶ Must-read perspective on what it means to say you ‘know’ the Church is true
▶ What this Hebrew word teaches us about Christ’s nature
