A Fuller Meaning of Matthew 5:48
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By Gary Blais

 

Matthew 5:48     “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” 

 

The Greek word for (perfect) is Teleios and is defined as this.  Having reached its end, complete, perfect.  It is an adjective that is used to describe something that is complete in all its parts, full grown, or full of age.  It is also used to describe the completeness of Christian character. 

 

The Hebrew word for (perfect) is Tamim.  Moses commands us to be perfect (Tamim) before the LORD.  Finished, complete, “perfect” before the LORD.  Tamim is used to describe our relationship with God.  Tamim means wholehearted, resolute, and entirely committed to walking “with” him in this world.  This is what Yeshua (Jesus) meant when he said “Be ye perfect.” 

 

The mature of heart and the “pure in heart” do not look away from the faithfulness and love of God.  Despite the distractions of temporal testing, they retain their commitment, and their earthly decisions reflect their faith.  All this turns on the decision to completely trust in God.  As Yeshua (Jesus) said “if your eye is single, your whole body shall be full of light.  (Mattew 6:22) 

 

Abraham is told by God in Genesis 17:1   And when Abram was 90 years old and nine, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him.  I am the Almighty God; walk before me and be perfect (Tamim). 

 

The Aramaic word for (perfect) is Gmeera.  Among the Semitic people.  There is a common phrase used for a learned person.  Gmeera biolpana which means that this person is acquainted with every branch of learning.  Gmeera among Semitic means one who has an understanding.   

 

In the context Yeshua (Jesus) is instructing his disciples to understand the Kingdom of God like God understands his Kingdom.  So, to love without partiality is to be Tamim (perfect). 

 

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