What is the main point about Perfectionism in this book?
The main point about perfectionism in the book seems to focus on the right understanding and observance of the Sabbath, illustrating this through the stories of Jesus healing on the Sabbath and challenging the narrow interpretations of the religious leaders of His time. It is argued that observing the Sabbath, or God’s law in general, should not be reduced to legalistic perfectionism, which was exemplified by the Pharisees’ traditions. Instead, it should be understood in the context of love, mercy, and doing good for others.
In the narrative, Jesus emphasizes that the Sabbath was made to benefit humanity and not to be a day of burden. When criticized for healing on the Sabbath, Jesus asked if it was better to “do good or to do evil? to save life or to destroy it” on the Sabbath, thus, asserting that doing good and life-saving actions honor the Sabbath and God’s law more than strict, legalistic observance does. This standpoint reinforces the concept that the spirit and intent of the law are more important than a rigid adherence to its letter.
Jesus’ actions suggest that the law of God, including the Sabbath, should be kept in a way that manifests love for God and compassion for people, rather than a perfect observance of rituals and rules. Jesus describes Himself as the Lord of the Sabbath, coming to “fulfil” the law and the prophets, meaning to give them their full meaning and show perfect obedience to God’s will. Fulfilling the law, according to the book, doesn’t mean to abolish it but rather to reveal its fullness and true intent.
By healing on the Sabbath and instructing the healed man to carry his mat, Jesus confronted the legalism of the Pharisees and the Sanhedrin. He intended to highlight that God’s work did not cease on the Sabbath, as God continues to sustain life even on this holy day. In doing so, the book suggests that Jesus acted in harmony with the true spirit of the Sabbath, inviting His followers to understand and live the law in a way that reflects God’s love and mercy toward all of creation.
