Sunday, 11 January 2015
But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. 1 Corinthians 13:10
Paul here speaks in an overall way concerning that which is imperfect in comparison to that which is perfect. As long as there is imperfection, that is all that is truly perceived. But when something perfect comes, it completely overshadows imperfection. This is even true in gradations of perfection. As an example, we can think of the development of the internet.
It first began with a single connection between two computers. The language was slow and very limited. Eventually, a larger network was developed and the less perfect system was overshadowed by the better. In due time, the internet grew into something that anyone could access, but it was limited to dial-up modems using the land-line phone system.
Along came higher speed land-line systems and they swallowed up the slower ones. Then cam DSL and people forgot about land-lines. Then came cable, and after that fiber optics. Each step replaced that which was less perfect. The old systems were done away with.
Such is true with the gifts of the Spirit which we now employ. The Giver of the gift is perfect, but we are imperfect. Our prophecies may miss the mark; our tongues may mispronounce words as we translate languages; and our knowledge is riddled with misunderstanding and misevaluations of spiritual matters.
However, someday, there will be a perfect unity between the Giver of the gifts and the glorified saints. There will no longer be a need for that which is lesser because that which is perfect will swallow up the imperfection in its perfection, just as dial-up modems have been dispensed with and forgotten.
All “that which is in part will be done away” with at that time. This is the hope of the saints; it is the anticipation of the redeemed; and it is the joy which is set before us because of the work of Christ. His perfection will be realized in us. We ourselves will not be God, but we will have a direct and unstained access to that which is perfect. We shall walk in His presence and see His glory illuminating our path for all eternity.
Life application: At this point in time, we perceive all things from a faulty perspective. This is because we are fallen and thus we often misperceive spiritual matters. However, this doesn’t mean that we should sit on our hands and wait for our glorification before seeking out perfection. We should always strive to learn more from God’s word. We should attempt to commune more closely with God at all times. And, we should fix our eyes on Jesus who is our model for perfect living as we walk in this fallen world.
Glorious Heavenly Father, Your word shows that there is a time coming when all that is imperfect will be done away with. You have prepared a place for Your glorified saints which will swallow up imperfection and only Your radiant purity will be seen for all eternity. I know that this is available only through the work of Christ and I know that I want a part of that. I bow my knee to the Lord and I receive His work done on my behalf to make this possible. Thank You for Jesus. Amen.