Potential of Perfection Rev. Stephen G. Reynolds, Sr. January 22, 2006 Sunday School Title: The Potential of Perfection Text: **James 3:2** INTRODUCTION Do any question if perfection is for you? The Process of Perfection explained. 1. Perfection has stages. 2. Perfection is God’s work and is God-given. 3. Perfection and the “Bride” are widely misunderstood. Self-interests prevent perfection. 4. We are not to be motivated by our self-interests or be self-centered. 5. We must be motivated by God’s interests or be God-centered. 6. Get rid of the things that hinder. A Prideful City - “The Same is a Great City” Genesis 10:12 Nineveh – Resen – Calah Jonah 1:2; 3:2,3; 4:11 1. definition of Resen: to curb, restrain --- halter, bridle 2. definition of halting: hesitance, imperfect progress 2. Calah – Job 5:26; 30:2 3. to be complete 4. maturity, full {old} age 3. Ham – Psalm 105:23,27; 106:22 5. The middle son of Noah: Shem, Ham, & Japheth. 6. Definition: to enflame self 7. Ham had great potential. A Pitiful Case - “The Same is a Thief and a Robber” Jn 10:1; Lu 10:30-77 Acting through motives of self interest alone is highly criminal before God. 4. Thieves —what’s yours is mine—I’ll take it. 5. Priest and Levite —what’s mine is mine—I’ll keep it. 6. Good Samaritan —what’s mine is yours—I’ll give it. A Perfect Man - “The Same is a Perfect Man” James 3:2 A. Offend not in word v.2 B. Bridle the whole body ““ C. A wise man—_good, clear, honest thinking _v.13 Endued with knowledge ““ A good conversation—_behavior, conduct _““ Meekness of wisdom—_character _““