INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. When That Which Is Perfect Comes
Remarks.
1. In this lesson today, we will be discussing the theme: “When that which is perfect comes.” This is the twelfth lesson in the sermon-series entitled: "Re-digging in Old Wells." There will be others bearing this title. We are re-digging in old wells to receive what Isaiah promised: "With joy, you will draw water from the wells of salvation," Isaiah 12:3. There are times we must re-dig in old wells to obtain the joy found in the: "waters of salvation." This sermon type is called "expository preaching." Our goal will be: "to dig a little deeper" in the text of emphasis in these lessons. We will allow the writer, the characters in the verses, and the words of the Master, to shed new meaning to His words of eternal life, John 6:63; John 6:67-69.
2. We will answer this question: "Has that which is perfect come?” By this, we mean: Is the “perfect” promised in our text of emphasis refers to the Second Advent of Christ? We will re-dig in old wells to find a biblical answer. Ulysses Shields called this kind of teaching: "digging a little deeper," in the word of truth. He was my grandfather in Christ. We will use as a foundational text for this sermon-series: "And Isaac re-dug the wells of water, which they had dug in the days of Abraham...for the Philistines had stopped them (closed them up) after Abraham’s death,” Genesis 26:18. The Philistines: “Stopped them, and filled them with earth,” because they envied Isaac’s possessions, Genesis 26:14-15.
3. Our text of emphasis will come from this passage: “Charity never faileth: but whether there are prophecies, they shall fail; whether there are tongues, they shall cease; whether there is knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part shall be done away” 1 Corinthians 13:8-10. It’s essential always to consider every text within the context of the scriptures. With God’s help, we will do just that, to draw: “New water from old wells.” I know some will disagree with the conclusion of this lesson. I trust it’s not you. With this introduction, let’s consider this topic carefully, with both our bibles and hearts opened unto the living God.
BODY OF LESSON
I WHEN THAT WHICH IS PERFECT COMES
A. Background scriptures. Paul wrote: "Love never fails," 1 Corinthians 3:8a. The superiority of love over all is shown by its survival of all with which it is compared. It is eternal and imperishable. Observe--
1. Love. The love we have considered in this lesson is superior to all spiritual gifts. It is attainable to all saints. Unlike spiritual talents, they were given as the Holy Spirit willed. On the other hand, love must be sought after, coveted, and grown within the human heart. O' to be more like Him – Jesus, in all things!
NOTE: Download our lesson, which is entitled: “Charity’s Preeminence,” from SermonCentral.com. Ron Freeman, Evangelist.
2. Never. The gift of love shall always be necessary for a Christian's growth and spiritual development. Love will permit us to grow in grace and knowledge, 2 Peter 3:17-18.
3. Fails. Love shall never fail. God's love shall always be available to sustain us during any situation or trial in our lives.
a. Jesus will never forsake us, always ready to comfort our hearts and assure our walk with Him.
b. The Holy Spirit will guide us first in understanding His revelation of truth and then during our walk of faith. Paul reminds these saints: "That we walk by faith; not by sight," 2 Corinthians 5:7. True love accepts all saints with genuine love. It also loves it, neighbor.
c. And saints must grow to love each other as they love themselves, Matthew 22:37-40.
d. We must learn to love God, our neighbors, and ourselves to fulfill the "Royal Law of Love," James 2:8. Let’s consider some other preliminary work before considering our text of emphasis.
B. Preliminary investigative work. Paul wrote: “Charity never faileth: but whether there are prophecies, they shall fail; whether there are tongues, they shall cease; whether there is knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part,” 1 Corinthians 13:8-9. Let’s first notice the importance of prophecy, tongues, and divine knowledge. Observe--
1. First, prophecy shall fail. We must do a little more investigation into the verses which introduce our text of emphasis. The apostle wrote: "But whether there are prophecies, they shall fail," 1 Corinthians 13:8b. It will be necessary to look at this text in its original language. The New Greek English Interlinear New Testament: “But whether prophecies, they will be abolished,” Page 602. This “part” shall be abolished. We will consider the meaning of the “part” later in the lesson.
a. There are prophecies. The noun "prophecies" in Gr., is propheteia or pro-fa-ta'-ä, which means prediction (scriptural or other):—prophecy, or prophesying.
b. The phrase “they shall fail” in Gr., is katargeo or kä-tär-ge'-o, which means to be entirely idle (useless) to:—abolish, cease, destroy, do away, become of no effect, fail, (come) to naught, put away, vanish, etc. They shall fail or come to naught.
c. Prophecy's temporal nature. Whether there are prophecies, they shall fail. Paul advises the saints that the gift of prophesying shall come to an end. The Spirit gave the gift of prophecy to some believers as He wills, 1 Corinthians 12:10. We know that the gift of prophecy has long since been done away (or ceased). It was not to be a continuing gift of the Spirit to the church, as apostles and prophets have come to an end, so has their work by the Spirit. We now should ask this question: What can a man say now in unveiling any revelations?
d. What is not revealed? We cannot know the mind of God, Romans 11:32-36. We now have His entire mystery of Christ, 1 Timothy 3:16; Romans 16:25-27; Colossians 1:25-29.
1) Any other alleged revelations shall fail, shall be fraudulent.
2) Such utterances are guilty of “adding to or taking away from the word of this book," Revelation 22:18-19.
3) Those who add to it. John wrote: “If any man adds unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book,” Revelation 22:18; Proverbs 30:6.
4) Those who take away from it. John continued: “And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book,” Revelation 22:19; Deuteronomy 4:2.
NOTE: Illustrate “World will end in 1914,” as alleged by the Jehovah's Witnesses. Such prophecies and predictions did fail. These were not the revelations of God. We have what we need and need only that which we have been given!
e. Know in part. Paul wrote: "For we know in part, and we prophesy in part," 1 Corinthians 13:9. These gifts passed away because our knowledge was only partial, and the prophecy only gave us glimpses. Here a little, and there a bit, Isaiah 28:9-11. These utterances were then imperfect and fragmentary; and, therefore, done away by something better. Now, he discusses the value and nature of tongues.
2. Further, tongue shall cease. Paul wrote: "Whether there are tongues, they shall cease,” 1 Corinthians 13:8c. The gift of speaking in unknown tongues (the word unknown is not in the original Greek text) was fleeting (passing). Paul wrote of a temporal nature of such languages to the church. Recall--
a. Tongues. There will be no more need for tongues in the work of the ministry. The Lord would have delivered His entire revelation unto the church and the world. Remember, tongues are merely other languages granted to the apostles and others to communicate Christ's message unto the people.
b. Tongue speaking was temporary. Tongues were needed to speak to the nations in their language, Acts 2:6-8; Acts 2:11. The word “tongue” articulated in the Gr., is glossa or glo's-sä, which meant the tongue; by implication, a language (especially, one naturally un-acquired):—tongue. Tongue speaking is merely human communication.
1) These were discernable gifts of languages spoken for the church's teaching, comforting, and edification!
2) They were designed to instruct, teach, and grow the saints in the word of God.
3) These tongues were given, not learned, or obtained through teaching or instruction, from some institution of learning. Languages were granted by the Holy Spirit, as He wills unto the believer set apart for this spiritual gift, 1 Corinthians 12:10.
c. Tongues shall cease. The word "cease" in Gr., is pauo or pau'-o, a primary verb which means to stop, i.e., to restrain, quit, and desist, to come to an end:—cease, leave, or refrain. These were not designed to remain but to have an end after their fulfillment unto the church. Paul now discusses divine knowledge. Observe--
3. Finally, knowledge will vanish away. He wrote: "Whether there is knowledge, it shall vanish away," 1 Corinthians 13:8d. This, too, was temporal for the church of Christ in the first century. This was divine knowledge imparted by the Spirit unto the believer with this spiritual gift.
a. Knowledge. The noun "knowledge" here in Gr., is gnosis or gno'-ses, which means knowing (the act), i.e., knowledge:—or science.
b. Temporal. This was supernatural knowledge, granted as a spiritual gift. It too would vanish or pass away: not the languages, but the divine imparting of the gifts of these languages unto the believers, 1 Corinthians 12:8.
c. Vanish away. The phrase, it shall vanish away in Gr., is katargeo or kä-tär-ge'-o, which means to be (render) entirely idle (useless) to:—abolish, cease, destroy, do away, bring (come) to naught, put away, vanish, or make void, etc.
1) All these were only granted while the church was in its infant state (a child).
2) Once the church had reached adulthood, became a man, they vanished away!
3) To desire these gifts is to return (the church) to its infancy (a child) again.
d. Conclusion: The Spirit gave the saints these spiritual gifts to help inform and strengthen the church until it became a full-grown man. They were temporal, not designed to continue or be replicated in the 21st-century church of Christ. It was needful for the church to become a full-grown adult and not remain in an infant state. This now brings us to our text of emphasis. Let’s dig a little deeper!
C. Text of Emphasis. Paul wrote: “But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part shall be done away,” 1 Corinthians 13:10. This verse will take us to new heights in the word of God. We must first define the phrase: "that which is perfect." Stay with me, beloved of the Lord! Fasten your seat belt, please!
The apostle Paul wrote--
1. When that which is "perfect" comes! Then shall the part be done away (no longer needed)? We must look at the word "perfect." It has given much room for others to make false and misleading suppositions. It does not here refer to the second coming of Christ! Some contend this was Paul’s message. However, the word “perfect” in the context of the scripture text: does not bear out this false notion. Observe--
2. When the perfect comes. The adjective "perfect" in Gr., is teleios or te'-la-os, which means to be complete (in labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.); i.e., completeness:—of full age, a man, or perfect in stature. It does not refer to the Second Advent of Christ! The word teleios’ gender within the text is neither masculine nor feminine (but neuter). More on this later!
a. When that which is perfect (the complete) has come, then the partial (tongues, prophecy, and divine knowledge) will be done away or vanish. The imperfect will give way to the perfect, the perishable to the enduring—the part to the complete. Are you still with me, brothers? This is going to get good! Here we go--
b. The "perfect," as taught by some religious groups, will occur or be possible at the Second Advent of Christ. At the end of the dispensation of grace, Ephesians 1:10; Ephesians 3:1-6. See also, 1 Corinthians 4:1; 1 Corinthians 9:17; Colossians 1:25-27.
c. Others believe it (the perfect or complete) came when the church reached its full maturity. As discussed earlier, when the spiritual gifts’ “the part” had been done away (became no longer useful).
d. The Holy Spirit gave these spiritual gifts to direct, guide, and lead the infant church until God's final and complete revelation was uncovered. This was and is considered to be the revelation of the Lord’s “divine word and will" for the church of Christ.
1) The inspired word of God that saves, converts, perfects, and equips the man of God unto "all good works," 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
2) The “law of the Lord (that) is perfect, converting the soul,” Psalms 19:7.
3) This word shall not pass away, Matthew 24:35.
4) The word of the Lord endureth forever, 1 Peter 1:25.
e. The word of God; is capable of “building up the saints,” Ephesians 4:12. The word gives them “an inheritance among all them which are sanctified,” Acts 20:32; 1 Corinthians 6:11. God's word is all the church needs to understand and do His divine will. How was this brought about? Observe--
3. Paul mentions it. He wrote: "And He (Christ) gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth are no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive. But speaking the truth in love may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ," Ephesians 4:11-15. Observe—
a. First, Christ gave the church: “Some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.” These are leaders and teachers!
b. Further, for what purpose? He continued: “For the perfecting (teleios) of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ,” Ephesians 4:12-13.
c. Next, he wrote further: "That we henceforth (are) no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive," Ephesians 4:14. The word “children” in Gr., is nepios or na'-pe-os, i.e., an infant (minor); a simple-minded person, an immature Christian:—babe, child (-ish), Romans 16:17-18.
NOTE: Paul also wrote to the Hebrew brethren regarding no longer being: "babes" drinking only milk entirely; but being (teleios): "full-grown or mature men” able to also eat strong (Gr., stereos or ste-re-o's) meat, Hebrews 5:12-14. The idea is, i.e., solid, stable:—steadfast, firm, or to be sure. Consider--
1) Both Gr., words: "nepios" and "teleios" are used in this text.
2) The meaning, they are "no longer infants."
3) But being of "full age or completely mature."
4) Having their senses (hearts and mind) exercised to discern between “both good and evil.” These saints can eat solid, strong, and firm meats. Able to determine between “sound doctrine,” Titus 2:1; as opposed to, “every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive,” Ephesians 4:14; Colossians 2:8.
5) They are mature, firm, immovable, and steadfast in the faith. These are perfect and mature men and women in the faith.
d. Again, How? He concluded: "But speaking the truth in love may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ," Ephesians 4:15.
e. Finally, he penned: "Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you: but that ye be perfectly (teleios) joined together in the same mind and the same judgment," 1 Corinthians 1:10; Philippians 3:16.
1) It is the gospel message that unites believers in Christ.
2) It is through speaking the same thing we abolish all divisions.
3) Through that which is "perfect," we are joined together in the same mind and same judgment, Philippians 1:27. That is the word of God.
4) I ask all who are reading and studying this lesson: “What is it God has given to the world that brings unity rather than division?” Is it not His divine revelation?
How does Paul declare this truth to Titus? Observe--
4. He wrote: “Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; in the hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour,” Titus 1:1-3. Paul gives us these three things in this text regarding the faith; the truth, which is after godliness, and the hope of eternal life.
a. First, it was conceived by God that cannot lie before the world began. God had given it before the world began. This truth was made known unto the world, first by Jesus Christ, then by the Holy Spirit, and, finally, by the apostles. This revelation existed in eternity but was manifested unto the world by the preaching of the gospel.
b. Second, it was commission by God in due times to be manifested through preaching. Paul wrote the church at Rome and Ephesus regarding the same commission, revelation, and preaching, Romans 16:25-27; Ephesians 3:1-7. Such disclosures were to teach and edify the church, 1 Corinthians 14:1-5.
c. Third, it was committed by God unto the apostles according to the commandments of God our Saviour (Jesus Christ). Christ gave it to them through revelation, Galatians 1:11-12; 1 Corinthians 14:36-37. Observe--
1) When the church came together. Paul wrote: “Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall it profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?” 1 Corinthians 14:6.
Amen, Elder Doors, and Brother Walls!
a) Notice, speak with tongues, speak by revelation, knowledge, prophesying, or doctrine. All these gifts were the "parts" that grew the church of Christ in the first century.
b) These were some of the “parts” that Paul and others used to teach, enlighten, encourage and comfort the assembly of Christ, 1 Corinthians 14:3-4.
c) These were “tongues, prophecies and divine knowledge” imparted to the believers, as the Holy Spirit willed.
2) Men spake in tongues by revelations within the assembly, to impart knowledge, 1 Corinthians 14:26-28. If no interpreter was present, he was commanded to be in silence.
a) A tongue was one "part" used to edify and build up the church. The woman was forbidden to “speak in tongues” within the assembly, 1 Corinthians 14:34-35.
b) However, there was no prohibition for her to “speak” outside of the assembly in a tongue. This restriction precludes a woman from being “a preacher or minister." I know I’m in deep water now, but I can swim out of it!
c) In that role, she would: “teach and usurp authority over the man,” 1 Timothy 2:11-12. Amen, brother Walls.
3) Prophets spake by revelations within the assembly, to convince and judge the unlearned, 1 Corinthians 14:26-33. A prophecy was another "part" used to inform, illuminate, and strengthen the church of God.
4) Not all spake with tongues, prophesied or had the gift of divine knowledge. But all saints had the more excellent gift, and that was "charity."
d. Conclusion: God’s divine revelation employed all these spiritual gifts to establish, build up, comfort, and sustain the church from its infancy unto manhood. These spiritual gifts were the “parts” given to the believers, as the Holy Spirit will, 1 Corinthians 12:11; Hebrews 2:1-4. These continued until the complete revelation was given by God unto the church: that which is “perfect.” James wrote of it as the “perfect law of liberty.” Observe--
5. James mentions it. He wrote: "But you are to be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your selves. For if any be a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect (teleios) law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed," James 1:22-25. Consider—
a. It is the perfect law of liberty that we must look into continually. We must examine it so that it can expose us to our faults and our sins.
b. To continue therein, being not a forgetful hearer. We must make corrections in our lives when the word exposes our errors and faults.
c. But to be hearers of the word. We must be more than just a hearer of the word.
d. And doers of the work. We must also be a doer of the work.
e. To be blessed in our deeds. Both hearing and doing are required to be blessed in our deeds. I wish I had some help! Amen, sister Ceilings!
6. Summary: James had declared that the "perfect" is the Law of Liberty or the full revelation of the word of truth. The truth promised by Jesus Christ began its disclosure on the Day of Pentecost in Jerusalem. It continued unto the complete revelation was given by the Holy Spirit.
a. To bring the church into maturity, The Spirit granted these gifts to believers to guide and direct the church of Christ until the full revelation of the will of God was completed.
b. That which is “perfect” in our text of emphasis is the divine will of God. That which is in “part” represents the gifts given to reveal the church's truth until the "perfect" had come. When the "perfect has come," then that which was in “part” was to be done away (or pass out of use).
1) Recall, I mention some are advocating the "perfect" in this verse, the Second Advent of Jesus Christ. They argue the Lord is that "perfect," which should come.
2) However, is this the true meaning of this verse? If so, what was the "part" that was to pass away? Was it not the “childish things?”
3) The real problem with this position is that it ignores the obvious. And that is the gender of both words in the text of emphasis: i.e., “the perfect” and “the part.” Consider this--
c. The New Greek English Interlinear New Testament; translates (1 Corinthians 13:10) in this fashion: “But when comes the completion, the thing in part will be abolished,” Page 610. This translation provides a more explicit meaning. Both the word "completion," an adjective, and the word "part," a noun, are in complete agreement in their number and gender in this verse.
NOTE: The rule in Greek is that an adjective is a word, phrase, or clause that describes another noun or pronoun, and (the) adjective must agree with its noun or pronoun in gender, number, and case. Reference, Greek Parsing, in BlueLetterBible.org; see 1 Corinthians 13:10.
1) First, the word “completion” in the phrase: that which is "perfect" is neuter. In like manner, the noun “part” in the phrase: that which is in "part" is also neuter.
a) The context in Greek does not permit us to infer a person (i.e., Jesus Christ); because the Gr., word teleios, in this text is an adjective in speech (accusative in case, singular in number, and neuter in gender).
b) The Gr., word teleios, does not refer to a person, nor is it masculine in gender, which would be the case if it referred to Jesus Christ.
2) Second, the Gr., word teleios, refers to a "thing, being complete, or perfect."
a) The “perfect will of God,” Romans 12:2.
b) The “complete” will of God, 1 Corinthians 13:10.
c) That ye stand “perfect and complete” in all the will of God, Colossians 4:12.
3) Next, therefore, it is (referring to the complete revelation of God's will and ways, whether in the completed Scriptures), James 1:25; or, (of patience’s final work), James 1:4; or, (of love’s complete work), 1 John 4:18.
4) Finally, the “part” which is to be abolished in Gr., is “meros,” a noun in speech (genitive in case, singular in number, and neuter in gender): thus, not corresponding to the accusative case of that which is to come, i.e., “the perfect.” This kind of exegesis is what we call "digging a little deeper!"
d. Summary: If Christ is the “perfect” that is to come, the gender would have to be masculine in this text. The neuter gender in this text has to do with a “thing” and not a “person.” Remember, in Greek, a “noun” denotes anything that can be named, usually an object, person, place, thing, idea, or action.
e. What is the noun that agrees with “teleios” in the case, number, and gender of the phrase: “when that which is perfect (complete) has come?” We must look into the next two verses. He continues: “When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now, we see through a glass, darkly, but then (when the perfect comes) face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known,” 1 Corinthians 13:11-12. Notice--
1) Paul, in these verses, contrasts the “perfect” and the “part.”
2) He describes them as being “a child” or the part, and a “perfect” as being seen face to face.
3) The noun that agrees with “teleios” in case, number, and gender is “prosopon” or “face to face.”
4) He used the analogy of a “child” and a “man” to illustrate the evolution of the church: from being a child needing “spiritual gifts” to that of a man, having the complete revelation of God. Then being able to see clearly God’s divine will. Here it is for your consideration. Notice--
a) The Gr., word “esoptron” or “glass” a noun, and the Gr., word “meros” or “part” also a noun; both agree in case, number, and gender. Reference, Greek Word Parsing, (N-GSN and N-GSN), 1 Corinthians 13:11; 1 Corinthians 13:12. The word “darkly” is being contracts with the words “face to face.” Meaning, when the complete comes, we will see the truth clearly; and no longer having it revealed through the use of spiritual gifts, but through the written word of God, 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
b) The Gr., word “teleios” or “perfect” an adjective, and the Gr., word “prosopon” or “face to face” its noun; both agree in case, number, and gender. The idea is the church being a “full-grown man” able to see and discern the will of God “face to face” (or clearly), Colossians 1:28; Ephesians 4:13. Reference, Greek Word Parsing, (A-ASN and N-ASN), 1 Corinthians 13:10; 1 Corinthians 13:12.
c) I know this is “digging a little deeper” and will require additional study, 2 Timothy 2:15. You must read and study the word of God through the eyes of the writers. Obtain yourself a good Greek-English Interlinear for study and consultation. I listed one for your consideration, under references, at the end of this sermon.
d) Summary: Therefore, Paul was not discussing Christ’s second advent as being “that which is perfect has come.” Had that been the case, the gender of both the noun and adjective; would have been masculine in gender. Neither of which are masculine in both examples above. I wish I had some help in this lesson! Here are several examples to illustrate what I am saying regarding Greek Parsing. Henceforth, these texts will put this theory to rest regarding Christ: “That which is perfect” in 1 Corinthians 13:10. Observe—
1) First, “Every perfect gift is from above, James 1:17.
a) The adjective – “teleios” or “perfect” is (A-NSN).
b) The noun – “dorema” or “gift” is (N-NSN).
c) The adjective and noun agree in the nominative case, singular in number, and neuter in gender. This noun is a thing in gender, not a person.
2) Second, “The perfect Law of Liberty,” James 1:25.
a) The adjective – “teleios” or “perfect” is (A-ASM).
b) The noun – “nomos” or “Law” is (N-ASM).
c) The adjective and noun are in agreement in the accusative case, singular in number, and masculine in gender. The noun is a male in gender.
3) Third, “Unto a perfect man,” Ephesians 4:13.
a) The adjective - “teleios” or “perfect” is (A-ASM).
b) The noun – “aner” or “man” is (N-ASM).
c) The adjective and noun are in agreement in the accusative case, singular in number, and masculine in gender. The noun, in this case, is a male in gender.
4) Forth, “Present every man perfect in Christ Jesus,” Colossians 1:28.
a) The adjective – “teleios” or “perfect” is (A-ASM).
b) The noun – “Anthropos” or “man” is (N-ASM).
c) Again, the adjective and noun are in agreement in the accusative case, singular in number, and masculine in gender. Paul sought to present every saint perfect in Christ Jesus. Now let’s look at our text of emphasis again with this understanding in mind, using Greek Parsing.
5) Fifth, “When that which is perfect comes, then that which is in part shall be done away,” 1 Corinthians 13:10.
a) The adjective – “teleios” or “perfect" is (A-ASN).
b) The noun – “Christos” or “Christ” is (N-GSM), 1 Corinthians 12:27. Teleios could not be referring to Christ.
c) The adjective and noun are not in agreement in the accusative case or gender. The noun would have had to be (N-ASN); or the adjective (A-GSM), to correspond to its adjective in case, number, and gender (masculine). The Greek Parsing in 1 Corinthians 12:27 for Christ, is Genitive in case, singular in number, and masculine in gender. 1 Corinthians 13:10, does not refer to Christ as the "perfect" which is to come. It refers to a thing, not a person: the adjective is neuter and not masculine.
d) I trust you see why I reject the claim that Christ is the “teleios” of 1 Corinthians 13:10. As I stated earlier, its gender in the text would have been masculine and not neuter. We are not permitted to make a “thing” a “person” to conform to teaching that the text does not support.
7. Conclusion: Paul now begins to explain the church’s evolution from infancy to maturity. Its growth from being and remaining a child to becoming an adult or of full age! Those desiring to hold to the “part” are infants in their faith and religion. It is the law of liberty: that makes us full-grown saints in the kingdom of God. Parts are therefore inferring infancy; and, perfect is affirming adult-hood. Observe--
D. From infancy unto maturity. Paul wrote: “When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now, we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these three is charity,” 1 Corinthians 13:11-13. What were the childish things? Paul listed them--
1. When a child. "When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought like a child," 1 Corinthians 13:11a. The infant church could only speak, understand, and think like a child. Those holding to the "part" will say, think, and know as a child. These have not grown up in Christ.
a. They have not yet grown up; therefore, it behaves like a babe!
b. Spiritual gifts (tongues, prophecy, and divine knowledge) were necessary for the infant church. Even with these, Corinth still behaved like a child!
c. Once the church reached adulthood, these spiritual gifts were no longer needed, and they, as Paul had promised: “vanished away,” 1 Corinthians 13:8.
2. When I became a man. He continued: "But when I became a man, I put away childish things," 1 Corinthians 13:11b. What were the childish things? The childish things Paul references are the spiritual gift of tongues, prophecy, and divine knowledge. He enumerates them in this Letter. Observe--
a. First, tongue-speaking. In the Hebrew assembly, no tongues were required because all that attended were Jewish members. When only Greek's were present in the Greek community, no divine imparting of language was needed. However, when the Galilean men spoke to the audience assembled on Pentecost, tongues were necessary and divinely granted for the apostles to speak to every nation under the heavens, Acts 1:11-12; Acts 2:1-4. To understand this further—
1) The Limited Commission. Jesus told His twelve: "Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and any cities of the Samaritans enter you not: But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as you go, preach, saying: The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, and raise the dead, cast out devils: freely you have received, freely give," Matthew 10:5-8. When you speak to your nation, you do not need the gift of new tongues! However in--
2) The Great Commission. Tongues were needed. Jesus said unto the eleven: "Go you into the entire world and preach the gospel to every creature...And these signs shall follow them that believe. In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues: They shall take up serpent; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover," Mark 16:15-18; Acts 28:3-6. Not all believers were given such gifts.
3) In the Limited Commission, the disciples were going unto their nation, Israel. Therefore, they did not need to be given "other tongues" to speak unto the Jews, Acts 22:1-2; Acts 22:9; Acts 26:14.
a) However, when the apostles spoke on Pentecost, and the disciples went into the entire world, they needed the "gift of new tongues" to communicate with the people of these nations, Acts 2:5; Acts 2:11; Acts 14:11-12; Acts 21:37-40.
b) Once the Spirit gave the gospel message to all countries and governments, the need for such tongues was to cease. These nations will have the word in their languages (spoken and written).
b. Further, the prophecies. In the same fashion, prophets foretold events that were to be, and those who were sent of God, such events did occur, Acts 11:27-30; Acts 12:24-25; Acts 13:1-3.
c. Lastly, divine knowledge. Through the "laying on of hands" by the Apostles, divine wisdom, gifts of tongues, and prophecy could be granted to the Holy Spirit's subjects, Hebrews 2:1-4; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6. These were all given by the Spirit to enlighten and strengthen the church, 1 Corinthians 14:3-4; 1 Corinthians 14:12; 1 Corinthians 14:26.
d. Conclusion: These were the "part" to be replaced by the "perfect" that has come. Spiritual gifts were to be replaced: with the inspired word of God.
3. Church’s evolution. In these verses, Paul declared this would take place through the church's spiritual growth from childhood to manhood. The speech, thoughts, and feelings of the child are given way to a full-grown adult man.
a. First, it will occur when the church no longer depends on the "part" but has, in fact, the entire perfect law of liberty: “The Law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple,” Psalms 19:7; James 1:25.
b. Further, the infant church needed these bits of help (spiritual gifts); to enable it to grow in its ability to share the message of Christ unto the world. I wish I had some help right about now!
c. Next, however, today, those groups claiming to have spiritual gifts have digressed into an infant church while claiming to be enlightened with the first-century church's spiritual gifts.
1) Today, these human-made institutions and religious groups can only claim to have the blessed gifts of tongues, prophecy, divine knowledge, etc., given by the Holy Spirit unto the church at Corinth.
2) They claim spiritual gifts to confuse, deceive and bewitch their memberships for filthy lucre sake, Titus 1:9-14; 1 Timothy 6:3-6; 2 Peter 2:1-3.
3) They desire to appear more spiritual and learned than all other believers.
4) In truth, they have nothing, know nothing, and their false claims are nothing!
d. Additionally, once it has matured, it would no longer need the "miraculous spiritual gifts"; that brought the church from its infancy to maturity. It was then these gifts were “done away” or “put away.”
e. Finally, these spiritual gifts have all been done away, as promised by Paul in this great Letter to the Corinthians, on spiritual gifts granted by the Spirit. The perfect or complete is the word of God; it "shall never fail or pass away," Matthew 24:35; 1 Peter 1:24-25; Isaiah 55:11; Isaiah 34:16.
NOTE: Illustrate desiring "miraculous spiritual gifts" over the "revelation of God;" can be referred to as the following: to take the instructions from a "Lego Toy Building," to construct a massive multistory high-rise; instead, of using the architect's "master blueprint." In this case: the word of God. Wouldn't this be a terrible mistake? The apostle Peter helps us understand this revelation.
4. Peter wrote: “Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, According to His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust,” 2 Peter 1:1-5. He affirms Christ has given us:
a. According to His divine power, all things that pertain to life and godliness. Christ has revealed unto us all things that pertain to eternal life and godliness before God, Titus 1:1-3; Titus 2:11-15.
b. Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises, regarding eternal life, Titus 3:4-7.
c. That by these, we might be partakers of the divine nature. We have been granted His divine nature through the “new man,” which is made in “righteousness and true holiness,” Ephesians 4:22-24; 1 Peter 1:22-23.
d. Having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. We have been forgiven of our sins and granted the gift of the Holy Spirit, Acts 2:38; Acts 5:32. The saints have all they need and need only that which God has divinely given!
e. Conclusion: If we have been given all things about life and godliness. What else is there for Christ to provide unto the saints and the world? He has given us such exceeding great and precious promises. We have been made to be partakers of the Lord’s divine nature through the “new birth,” John 3:3-5. We have escaped the corruption in this world through His grace and forgiveness. He has given us His complete will and way. There is nothing else to be revealed. Such divine gifts, “the part” has been done away. Finally, Paul begins his conclusion--
5. He penned: "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known," 1 Corinthians 13:12. When the perfect has come, we will see God’s will and way clearly. He uses an analogy of a mirror to illustrate this truth. Observe--
The images were indistinct in comparison. They were seen darkly, indistinctly, imperfectly.
a. First, the mirrors of the ancients were of polished brass and were far inferior to ours. Thus in this state of our knowledge of divine things were imperfect and incomplete.
b. Further, but then face to face. We will then no longer look in a glass; but, we will see and be seen face-to-face: without a veil or any obscurity.
c. Next, for now, I know in part. There were limitations upon Paul's knowledge; only a portion was seen and understood at any given moment.
d. Finally, but then, when the veil is taken away, and the full revelation has come: I shall know God’s eternal secrets fully, even as I am known to God. Thus it is shown that all these spiritual gifts were fleeting. This change will occur when that which is perfect has come. And what is that? Observe--
E. Parts have been done away. What are the parts? Therefore, the perfect law of liberty is that which was to come. In like fashion, God permitted the piece or (spiritual gifts) to pass away. These were as mentioned earlier. The--
1. Prophecies. The church needed these to propagate the message and divine revelations of Christ.
2. Tongues. The church needed these to speak to the nations in their tongues (languages).
3. Divine knowledge. The Spirit provided this to the church to unfold the message still hidden to the world about Jesus Christ. Childish things have now been put away.
NOTE: Illustrate “I put away childish things.” In many church assemblies, there are yet "bottled babies," Hebrews 5:12-14. There are still too many saints unable to: "discern between good and evil." There is a vital need for the man of God: to preach more lessons containing "meat" instead of "milk." Leaving the “first principles” and moving on “to perfection,” Hebrews 6:1-3. Amen, somebody up in this place! It seems like I'm in this lesson all by myself! Do I have some help?
4. Faith once delivered. Jude closes our search for “the perfect,” that has come, when he wrote: “Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called: Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied. Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints,” Jude 1:1-3. These verses settle our discussion of “when that which is perfect comes.” Observe--
a. First, he wrote of his position to Christ and the Father, and beseeches mercy, peace, and love be multiplied unto all the saints, Jude 1:1-2.
b. Further, he wrote unto them of the common salvation, and exhorted them regarding the faith, Jude 1:3a; Titus 1:4; 2 Timothy 4:1-4; 2 Timothy 4:1-8.
c. Finally, Jude makes it clear that we (the saints):
1) Are no longer in search of the faith. The truth has already come or has been completely revealed.
2) But, he challenges us to earnestly contend for the faith, Galatians 5:1; 1 Corinthians 16:13; Philippians 1:27.
3) Which was once (already) delivered unto the saints, Jude 1:3.
d. Conclusion: We cannot but agree with Jude that faith or “that which is perfect” has already come. We are no longer looking for its revelation. We are exhorted as saints to earnestly contend for “the faith” or “the perfect” that has already been delivered.
1) This is the truth which Jesus promised: “Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free... If the Son, therefore, shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed,” John 8:31-36.
2) And the God of heaven has given, Titus 1:1-3. The “faith of God’s elect,” or the “truth which is after godliness” or that which “brings about godliness,” Titus 2:11-14.
3) Our challenge moving forward is to continue in it and contend for this faith that has been (already) delivered unto the saints. We will do this by our constant and devoted study of this divine revelation of truth.
4) Paul instructs us why we must endeavor to study and reverence this revelation of truth. Observe--
5. Study to be approved. Paul encourages us to: "Study to shew ourselves approved unto God, workmen that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth," 2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Timothy 3:16-17. We must seek out the word of truth that brings salvation, John 5:39; Isaiah 34:16.
NOTE: Discuss illustration: “It’s been in the hog all the time,” 2 Timothy 2:15.
6. There abides. Paul concluded: "And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love," 1 Corinthians 13:13. But now we see in a glass darkly. But now, there abideth faith, hope, and love. These three shall survive. They are eternal. They shall never vanish away.
a. They will continue to exist in the church and shall not fail in its glorified state.
b. As long as the redeemed saint shall have the hope of glory before them: "No sufferings or perils in this present age are worthy of being compared with the hope of glory, which shall be revealed in us," Romans 8:18; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18. Christ in us “is the hope of glory,” Colossians 1:27.
c. Love then is the greatest gift of all. It excels in excellence because it glorifies both faith and hope; sanctifies every Christian grace; it is the essential and glorious part of the gospel, and it is the one divine gift granted to every saint. This enduring quality and assent of love are from Him, our Father, the "God of love." The three, what are they? Observe--
1) Faith. The beloved apostle Paul wrote: "Faith is the substance of things hope for, and the evidence of things not seen," Hebrews 11:1.
a) Faith is the fundamental principle in what we hope for, and continue to believe they shall be granted as the Lord has promised.
b) We do not see them. We hope for the fulfillment of these things.
c) Just as Abraham: "Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations according to that which was spoken: So shall thy seed be. And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about a hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah's womb: He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; and being fully persuaded that, what He had promised, He was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness," Romans 4:18-22.
2) Hope. Paul penned: "And not only they but ourselves also, which have the first-fruits of the Spirit, even we groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. For we are saved by hope: but hope that we seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hopes for it? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it," Romans 8:23-27.
3) Charity. We will permit the apostle John to close this out. He wrote: "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God, and every one that loveth is born of God and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought to love one another," 1 John 4:7-11.
4) B. W. Johnson wrote: "But now abideth faith, hope, (and) love. These three shall survive. They are eternal. They continue to exist in the church, and shall not fail in its glorified state: (as) long as the redeemed saint shall have future ages before him, so long will trust in God and hope give them brightness, while love itself is the very atmosphere of the divine life...Love...The greatest because it glorifies both faith and hope, sanctifies every faculty and Christian grace...the gospel, and is the one divine quality. 'God is love,'" Page 419.
d. Conclusion: Here we have it. From now on, until we see the Lord, we will have faith in His word and promises. Hope shall make us not ashamed, but through patience, we believe we shall receive the promises of Christ. And when there, before Him are eyes are permitted to view, no longer will faith and hope be necessary, in that, we now experience the blessed promise: "Christ in you is the hope of glory," Colossians 1:27; Ephesians 3:17-21. These shall forever endure and abide in the love of God and Christ: which passes all understanding. And won't it be wonderful there! As I conclude, let me review what we discussed in this lesson. Recall--
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. When That Which Is Perfect Comes
B. Summarize main points.
1. In this lesson, we answered this question: "Has that which is perfect come?" By this, we meant: "Is the 'perfect' promised in this text, the Second Advent of Christ?” We spent some time investigating our text of emphasis to determine a scriptural answer.
2. The text of emphasis read as follows: “Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part shall be done away,” 1 Corinthians 13:8-10. We also sought to refute the notion that "the perfect" promised here is the "Second Advent of Christ." We needed to consider the text of emphasis within its context of the scripture. We obtained additional scriptures that explain the meaning of the word "perfect" in Greek as used in the first century.
3. What has been learned? The text: When that which is perfect came; then, that which was “in part” was done away (or put out): was the complete will of God, made known unto the church of Christ, through divine revelation, Titus 1:1-3. The text of emphasis dealt with spiritual gifts that were the "part," which would be put away; when: "that which is perfect has come." The "perfect" was the "Law of Liberty" given by God's divine revelation. The text of emphasis did not refer to the Second Advent of Christ. Those who profess so are not permitting the word of God to establish the truth in understanding Paul’s message to Corinth.
C. Invitation. Present the pattern of conversion, H.B.R.C.B.
D. Exhortation.
E. Motivation.
I submit this verse unto you that I may: “Render therefore to all their dues: tributes to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; and honor to whom honor, (is due),” Romans 13:7. I acknowledge my consultation with these distinguished authors in this lesson.
References:
1. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
2. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
3. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,’ Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
4. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
5. Clarke Commentary on the Bible, Eight Volumes, Published 1810-1826, New York, Published by J. Emory and B. Waugh, for the Methodist Episcopal Church, at the conference office, 13 Crosby-Street., J. Collord, Printer, 1831.
6. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappan, NJ, Copyright, 1981.
7. Smith's Bible Dictionary, William Smith, Grand Rapids, MI: Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Printing 1884.
8. Blue Letter Bible Institute, Greek Parsing, BlueLetterBible.org, @2021.
9. https://www.blueletterbible.org/kjv/1co/13/1/t_conc_1075010. Click on this link to see an example of Greek Parsing, 1 Corinthians 13:10.
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
ronald.e.freeman@wwmchurchofchrist.org
https://wwmchurchofchrist.org/
Website: https://en.gravatar.com/refreeman
