King James Version

What Does Matthew 5:48 Mean?

“Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”

Context

For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?

And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?

Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(48) **Be ye therefore perfect.**—Literally, *Ye therefore shall be perfect*—the ideal future that implies an imperative. **Your Father which is in heaven.**—The better reading gives, *your heavenly Father.* The idea of perfection implied in the word here is that of the attainment of the end or ideal completeness of our being. In us that attainment implies growth, and the word is used (*e.g.,* in 1Corinthians 2:6; Hebrews 5:14) of men of full age as contrasted with infants. In God the perfection is not something attained, but exists eternally, but we draw near to it and become partakers of the divine nature when we love as He loves: ———“Earthly power doth then show likest God’s When mercy seasons justice.” **Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers Text Courtesy of BibleSupport.com. Used by Permission. **Bible Hub

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 5:48 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.