SINLESS PERFECTION ORIGIN
- Early Christian Teachings: The concept of sinless perfectionism has its roots in early Christian theology, particularly in the writings of Origen (c. 185-254 AD) and the Desert Fathers (3rd-5th centuries AD). They emphasized the possibility of attaining a state of spiritual perfection through ascetic practices and intense devotion to God.
- John Wesley and Keswick Movement: In the 18th century, John Wesley and the Keswick Movement revived the idea of sinless perfectionism. Wesley taught that believers could attain a state of entire sanctification, where they would be completely freed from sin’s dominion and live a life of sinless perfection. This teaching was influential in shaping the Holiness Movement and the Pentecostal/Charismatic traditions.
- 19th-20th Centuries: The Keswick teachings on sinless perfection were further developed and popularized by authors like Andrew Murray, R.A. Torrey, and A.J. Gordon. These writers emphasized the importance of abiding in Christ and the possibility of living a life without conscious sin.
- Critique and Rejection: However, many theologians and pastors have critiqued and rejected the doctrine of sinless perfectionism, arguing that it is unbiblical and ignores the reality of ongoing sin in the believer’s life. The Reformed and Lutheran traditions have been particularly vocal in their rejection of this doctrine, emphasizing instead the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for ongoing repentance and faith.
Key Biblical Passages
- Ephesians 4:13 - until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the full knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ,
- Romans 7:14-24 For we know that the Law is spiritual, but I am fleshly, having been sold into bondage under sin. For what I am working out, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate. But if I do the very thing I do not want, I agree with the Law, that it is good. So now, no longer am I the one working it out, but sin which dwells in me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the working out of the good is not. For the good that I want, I do not do, but I practice the very evil that I do not want. But if I am doing the very thing I do not want, I am no longer the one working it out, but sin which dwells in me. I find then the principle that in me evil is present—in me who wants to do good. For I joyfully concur with the law of God in the inner man, but I see a different law in my members, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a captive to the law of sin which is in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from the body of this death?
- 2 Corinthians 5:10 - For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.
- Titus 2:11-14 - For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us that, denying ungodliness and worldly desires, we should live sensibly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all lawlessness, and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good works.
Conclusion
The origin of sinless perfectionism can be traced back to
early Christian teachings, particularly in the writings of Origen and the Desert Fathers. The doctrine was revived and popularized in the 18th century through the Keswick Movement and the teachings of John Wesley. However, many theologians and pastors have critiqued and rejected this doctrine, emphasizing instead the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for ongoing repentance and faith.
Cultures promoting moral absolutism and the pursuit of flawlessness, without acknowledging human imperfection.
The sinless perfection cult refers to a theological movement that claims it is possible for Christians to achieve complete victory over sin and live a life of perfect holiness, free from any intentional or unintentional sin, in this life. This doctrine is often associated with a misunderstanding of biblical teachings on sanctification and the Christian life.
Scriptural Refutations
Several passages in the Bible refute the idea of sinless perfectionism. For example, John the apostle, who wrote 1 John, explicitly acknowledges his own sinfulness (1 John 1:8-10). Similarly, Paul writes that he struggles with sin and temptation (Romans 7:14-25). These passages demonstrate that even the most devoted Christians continue to struggle with sin and imperfection.
Critiques of Sinless Perfectionism
Critics of sinless perfectionism argue that it:
- Overlooks the ongoing struggle with sin (Romans 7:14-25)
- Ignores the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to live holy lives, rather than achieving perfect holiness through human effort (Galatians 3:3)
- Fosters legalism and moralism, rather than emphasizing grace and faith (Galatians 3:10-14)
- Disregards the intercessory role of Christ as our Advocate before God (1 John 2:1-2)
Conclusion
The sinless perfection cult is a theological error that misunderstands the nature of sin, sanctification, and the Christian life. The Bible teaches that while Christians are called to strive for holiness and obedience, they will continue to struggle with sin and imperfection until glorification. A more balanced and biblical understanding of the Christian life emphasizes the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit, the struggle with sin, and the gracious provision of Christ as our Advocate.
Churches that promote sinless perfection
Holiness Church
Church of God-- Some
United Pentecostal Church
Nazarene Church
Four Square Gospel
Wesleyan Methodist Church
Apostolic Holiness Church
Church of God in Christ
There are many more
