Being Perfect

That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Tim. 3:17


The command to be "perfect" is a frustrating one for many people. Below are some synonymous words for "perfect"[Strong’s # 739]-both adjectives and verbs- that broaden our perspective.

1. teleios = that which has reached its end. From telos, end. Lat. finis, nothing beyond; hence perfect, in the sense of initiated . See 1Cor. 2:6. Phil. 3:15.

2. teleioo = to make a full end, consummate.

3. epiteleo = to finish, or bring through to an end.

4. akribos = accurately, precisely, exactly, assiduously.

5. akribeia = accuracy, preciseness, exactness.

6. artios = fitting like a joint = perfect adaptation for given uses. Found only in 2Tim. 3:17.

7. pleroo = to fulfill, accomplish.

8. katartizo = to arrange or set in order, adjust, &c. It occurs thirteen times, and is rendered "mend" (Matt. 4:21. Mark 1:19); "prepare" (Heb. 10:5); "frame" (Heb. 11:3); "restore" (Gal. 6:1); "make perfect" (Heb. 13:21. 1Pet. 5:10. All the texts read "will perfect"); "perfected" (Matt. 21:16. 1Thess. 3:10); "fit" (Rom. 9:22). Passive "be perfect" (Luke 6:40. 2Cor. 13:11); "be perfectly joined together" (1Cor. 1:10).

9. exartizo = to equip, fit out (as a vessel for sea); i.e. ready for every emergency (found only in Acts 21:5 and 2Tim. 3:17).

10. hexis = habitude (as the result of long practice or habit). Found only in Heb. 5:14.

(http://www.levendwater.org/companio/frameset.htm?append125.html&inhoudsopgave_companion.htm)