Perfection

Pythagoras and other early Greek mathematicians believed they found perfection. Overwhelmed by the symbolism they discovered in pure mathematics, they proclaimed the discovery of “perfect” numbers.

What made these numbers special? According to historian Amir Aczel, “In their search for mystical properties of numbers, the Pythagoreans defined a perfect number as a number that is ‘equal to [the sum of] its own parts.’” To them, the first “perfect” number was 6 (because 6 = 6 x 1 and 2 x 3). The next perfect number is 28.

Those expert mathematicians could draw this conclusion because, from their perspective, numbers gave insights into the nature of the universe. Pythagoras would come to believe that ‘God is number.’”

To those outside the world of mathematics, these conclusions may seem hard to fathom. But throughout time, others with their own points of view have proclaimed their concepts of perfection. People have sought to promote products, moments, ideas, and even people that they considered to be perfect.

However, the Bible gives us different perspective on perfection. Through its pages, we’re shown the flaws in all of man’s attempts to find perfection. We see the flaws of even the best of people, and troubles in even the most ideal relationships.

Yet there is something that is perfect: God’s Word. It is so perfect that it always is true! It applies in every situation and for any person. It is “more desirable than gold.” Its principles show us how to make the right decisions. It can make us wise and give joy to our heart. Its purity can enlighten our eyes.

As we look at the world, we may see and experience many wonderful things. But if we want perfection, we must turn to God’s Word and the perfection found in God Himself and His Son, Jesus. And we must seek to mature in our faith, growing together to become “a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13).