You shall therefore be perfect. This perfection does not mean equality, but relates solely to resemblance. However distant we are from the perfection of God, we are said to be perfect, as he is perfect, when we aim at the same object, which he presents to us in Himself. Should it be thought preferable, we may state it thus. There is no comparison here made between God and us: but the perfection of God means, first, that free and pure kindness, which is not induced by the expectation of gain; — and, secondly, that remarkable goodness, which contends with the malice and ingratitude of men. This appears more clearly from the words of Luke, Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful: for mercy is contrasted with a mercenary regard, which is founded on private advantage.
Great! I was thinking about all this recently since I’m helping to teach a class on Matthew in my church. Throughout the sermon on the mount, Jesus is clear that we are supposed to do what He tells us. Yet many Christians interpret this in a way that is disobedient. They claim Jesus’ commands are not meant to be obeyed, but are rather revelations of God’s impossible standards which drive us to confess our own inability.
But this means Jesus is tricking or deceiving us. He’s speaking in code or joking. Even though He gives lots of commands, we’re not really supposed to do what He says, because it’s impossible. This makes nonsense out of much of Jesus’ teaching and also fails to explain why He says people who practice lawlessness will be cast out of the kingdom.
Maybe the right way is to adopt Jesus’ own attitude: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Mt. 11:28-30)