A Complete Look at Perfect | John S. Robertson | July 1999
Sep 25, 2024
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In this engaging talk, John S. Robertson, a BYU professor of linguistics, delves into the difference between 'perfection' and 'completion.' He humorously reflects on the challenges of maintaining positivity during daily tasks. The conversation shifts to a spiritual perspective on perfection, emphasizing the significance of covenants in relationships. He explores how families nurture spirituality and community, advocating for practical religion as a pathway to completeness. Robertson encourages listeners to redefine their pursuit of perfection in light of faith and connection.
John S. Robertson emphasizes that understanding perfection as completeness encourages personal growth rather than an unattainable state of flawlessness.
The podcast highlights the vital role of covenants in forming spiritual completeness, illustrating how they unite individuals for collective growth and support.
Deep dives
Understanding Perfection in Modern Context
The concept of perfection is explored by examining its historical evolution and modern implications. Historically, 'perfect' meant complete or excellent, but in contemporary usage, it often signifies flawlessness. This shift in meaning can create misunderstandings of Christ's injunction to 'be ye therefore perfect.' Recognizing that perfection can also mean completeness allows individuals to aspire to personal growth rather than a constant state of flawlessness.
The Role of Covenants in Completion
Covenants are foundational to spiritual completeness, illustrating how two incomplete parties come together to form a whole. In entering covenants, such as baptism, individuals agree to certain commitments that foster spiritual growth and unity with God. The notion that covenants bring about completeness is further emphasized in the context of marriage, highlighting how two individuals unite to support and uplift each other in fulfilling divine purposes. These sacred agreements not only enhance personal development but also connect individuals to a greater spiritual family.
Completion through Community and Service
The importance of community is underscored in the discussion of the Church as a body, where each member is essential to the collective. Each individual's unique contributions allow for spiritual growth and help counteract self-centeredness. Additionally, the metaphorical significance of the Church emphasizes how working together creates a supportive environment for completion. This interdependence fosters a culture of service, helping members embody the principles of love and cooperation central to the teachings of Christ.
John S. Robertson compares “perfection” and “completion” and discusses how we and different aspects of the Church can be complete. Click here to see the speech page.