What does Jesus really mean when he says, ‘Be perfect…’? Have you ever scratched your head over Jesus’ call to ‘Be perfect’ in Matthew 5.48? You are not alone—Some Bible passages and concepts seem to hit a nerve in believers more than others. I can always tell which ones people are challenged by the most because I receive a higher than usual number of ‘What should I do about this?’ or ‘How do I deal with that one pastor?’ emails & calls.
Certainly, Matthew 5.48, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect” is one of those verses that makes the normal person just throw up their hands in frustration and walk away muttering, I might as well just quit now”. ‘Be perfect’? Really? Be without flaws on all occasions?
Sure, there are some who raise up in their chairs and comment smugly ‘I already am perfect’, but most of us regard the command with hopeless exhaustion. What is more, we do not just have to be ‘normally’ perfect–We have to be perfect ‘as your Father in heaven is perfect’? Oh great, now I have to be as good as God? —We might as well just give up all hope right now!
John Wesley talked often about a doctrine he called “Christian Perfection”. It is one of the ‘Wesley Historical Questions’ for those individuals seeking ordination which make most ordinands squirm in their seats as the Bishop looks them in the eye and asks with a straight face “Are you going on to perfection?” Join us this week at Sedona United Methodist Church as the Rev. Fred Mast shares a message entitled “Be Perfect—Really?”
As we strive to keep our community safe and healthy we continue to offer an amazing Spirit Filled On-Line Worship experience each week—You are invited to access worship through our website (www.sedonaumc.org). Sunday mornings we enter the spirit of worship featuring meaningful and uplifting music, special times of prayer and passionate life changing messages designed to move you closer in your relationship with Jesus Christ and others.
Check out our Facebook and Website page for the latest details and updates regarding church activities and Re-Opening Plan coming soon!!! Check out our NEW “SUMC Joy Hotline” on our website and share the “Joys & Blessings” happening in your life! Don’t hesitate to contact us if we may be of assistance and for pastoral care. We are here to help!
The Church Building may be temporarily closed—But the Church is certainly open with so many great missions, ministries and opportunities at Sedona UMC—Visit our website at us on www.sedonaumc.org and “Like” us on Facebook. We would love to pray for you! —Prayer requests may be submitted online or by calling us at 928-282-1780. We are conveniently located at 110 Indian Cliffs Road off the Back O’Beyond roundabout on Route 179 in Sedona. All are welcome at Sedona UMC—We look forward to seeing you very soon—Come and grow with us!
