Does God require us to be perfect before him?
If so, what does this mean? Does it mean that we are to be sinless? Does it mean we must no longer commit wrong or sinful acts?
In another thread I've had someone say that not only must we be perfect, but that he actually knows people that are perfect and sinless!
I find this exceedingly hard to believe. I find it hard to believe that someone can lead a sinless life, with or without the Holy Spirit. Everyone is prone to selfishness, coveting, and sinful actions.
If we are to be sinless before God in our deeds, then does that not reduce Christianity to a works-based religion?
Or is our "perfection before God" seen to be ontologically true via Jesus' forgiveness regardless of the lack of manifestation in our day-to-day lives?
If so, what does this mean? Does it mean that we are to be sinless? Does it mean we must no longer commit wrong or sinful acts?
In another thread I've had someone say that not only must we be perfect, but that he actually knows people that are perfect and sinless!
I find this exceedingly hard to believe. I find it hard to believe that someone can lead a sinless life, with or without the Holy Spirit. Everyone is prone to selfishness, coveting, and sinful actions.
If we are to be sinless before God in our deeds, then does that not reduce Christianity to a works-based religion?
Or is our "perfection before God" seen to be ontologically true via Jesus' forgiveness regardless of the lack of manifestation in our day-to-day lives?