Matthew 5:48

Verse 48 86

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

Research

References from this verse

Scripture footnote

perfect,

Doctrine and Covenants 67:13

Verified

Referenced in other verses

Scripture footnote

purposes

2 Nephi 2:15

Verified
Scripture footnote

purposes,

Alma 42:26

Verified
Scripture footnote

perfect

3 Nephi 12:48

Verified
Scripture footnote

as

3 Nephi 27:27

Verified
Scripture footnote

immortality

Doctrine and Covenants 29:43

Verified
Scripture footnote

perfected.

Doctrine and Covenants 67:13

Verified
Scripture footnote

work

Moses 1:39

Verified

Confidence filter

All High confidence Verified

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Quotes
References
Alludes to

- **Thou Art the Christ** — Amy A. Wright (April 2025) · Reference
  The Sermon on the Mount is decisively the most noteworthy discourse ever delivered, pioneering in its teachings.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/04/32wright?lang=eng&id=p_g4lmq#p_g4lmq

- **God’s Intent Is to Bring You Home** — Patrick Kearon (April 2024) · Reference
  Does this mean anything goes with regard to how we live our lives?
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2024/04/45kearon?lang=eng&id=p14#p14

- **Shipshape and Bristol Fashion: Be Temple Worthy—in Good Times and Bad Times** — Quentin L. Cook (October 2015) · Reference
  At the commencement of the Savior’s earthly ministry in Israel and later among the Nephites, the Savior addressed the issue of happiness both in this life and in eternity.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/10/shipshape-and-bristol-fashion-be-temple-worthy-in-good-times-and-bad-times?lang=eng&id=p11#p11

- **Ponder the Path of Thy Feet** — Thomas S. Monson (October 2014) · Reference
  Other instructions given to us by the Savior are at our fingertips, found in the holy scriptures.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2014/10/ponder-the-path-of-thy-feet?lang=eng&id=p22#p22

- **Never, Never, Never Give Up!** — Mary N. Cook (April 2010) · Alludes to
  Let me share with you the experience of Julie, a young woman who was able to face a challenge by following the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2010/04/never-never-never-give-up?lang=eng&id=p25#p25

- **“Come, Follow Me”** — William W. Parmley (October 2003) · Alludes to
  Jesus both taught and exemplified many personal qualities which we should consider as we try to follow Him.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2003/10/come-follow-me?lang=eng&id=p23#p23

- **Agency and Anger** — Lynn G. Robbins (April 1998) · Alludes to
  Nor can becoming angry be justified.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1998/04/agency-and-anger?lang=eng&id=p15#p15

- **The Beatitudes** — O. Leslie Stone (October 1974) · Alludes to
  Now, the first of the Beatitudes we find in Matthew 5, verse 3: “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1974/10/the-beatitudes?lang=eng&id=p4#p4

- **The Character of Christ** — D. Todd Christofferson (April 2026) · Reference
  Since we know that the Lord will come and establish a new earth where righteousness prevails, Peter asks, “What manner of persons ought ye to be?” He counsels that we should be preparing diligently now so that when the Lord comes, He will find us “in peace, without spot, and blameless,” leading lives of holiness.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2026/04/51christofferson?lang=eng&id=p_rNk5f#p_rNk5f

- **Sons and Daughters of God** — Rubén V. Alliaud (October 2024) · Reference
  Jesus’s commandment to be “perfect, even as [our] Father which is in heaven is perfect” is a clear reflection of His high expectations and our eternal possibilities.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2024/10/55alliaud?lang=eng&id=p_e0OTw#p_e0OTw

- **The Imperfect Harvest** — Vern P. Stanfill (April 2023) · Reference
  It is often a temptation in our world and even within the culture of the Church to obsess about perfection.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2023/04/54stanfill?lang=eng&id=p5#p5

- **Happy and Forever** — Gerrit W. Gong (October 2022) · Reference
  Fourth: The Lord gives us divine opportunity to become more like Him as we offer proxy saving temple ordinances others need but cannot do for themselves.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2022/10/43gong?lang=eng&id=p24#p24

- **Becoming like Him** — Scott D. Whiting (October 2020) · Reference
  To even the careful student of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, the Savior’s admonition to be “even as I am” is daunting and seemingly unattainable.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2020/10/13whiting?lang=eng&id=p1#p1

- **Take Up Our Cross** — Ulisses Soares (October 2019) · Reference
  Brothers and sisters, I want to testify to you that taking upon us our cross and following the Savior requires us to follow His example and strive to become like Him, patiently facing the circumstances of life, denying and despising the appetites of the natural man, and waiting on the Lord.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2019/10/55soares?lang=eng&id=p21#p21

- **Cleansed by Repentance** — Dallin H. Oaks (April 2019) · Alludes to
  We need to partake of the sacrament each Sabbath day.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2019/04/51oaks?lang=eng&id=p9#p9

- **Gather Together in One All Things in Christ** — David A. Bednar (October 2018) · Reference
  The purpose and purification, the happiness and joy, and the continuing conversion and protection that come from “yielding [our] hearts unto God” and “[receiving] his image in [our] countenances” cannot be obtained merely by performing and checking off all the spiritual things we are supposed to do.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2018/10/gather-together-in-one-all-things-in-christ?lang=eng&id=p11#p11

- **The Father** — Brian K. Ashton (October 2018) · Reference
  Acquire all knowledge, power, and divine attributes.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2018/10/the-father?lang=eng&id=p10#p10

- **Be Ye Therefore Perfect—Eventually** — Jeffrey R. Holland (October 2017) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father in heaven is
  If that is your morning scripture study, and after reading just that far you are pretty certain you are not going to get good marks on your gospel report card, then the final commandment in the chain is sure to finish the job: “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father … in heaven is perfect.” With that concluding imperative, we want to go back to bed and pull the covers over our head.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2017/10/be-ye-therefore-perfect-eventually?lang=eng&id=p4#p4

- **The Language of the Gospel** — Valeri V. Cordón (April 2017) · Reference
  As children of God, we are imperfect people trying to learn a perfect language.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2017/04/the-language-of-the-gospel?lang=eng&id=p33#p33

- **“Abide in My Love”** — D. Todd Christofferson (October 2016) · Reference
  Beyond rendering the penitent person guiltless and spotless with the promise of being “lifted up at the last day,” there is a second vital aspect of abiding in the love of God.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2016/10/abide-in-my-love?lang=eng&id=p17#p17

- **What Lack I Yet?** — Larry R. Lawrence (October 2015) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  Soon after my baptism, I was studying the Sermon on the Mount, and I recognized that Jesus taught this same truth about eternal progression in the Bible.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/10/what-lack-i-yet?lang=eng&id=p4#p4

- **Remembering in Whom We Have Trusted** — Allen D. Haynie (October 2015) · Quote
  > “be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we attribute greater power to the Savior’s Atonement than most other people because we know that if we make covenants, continually repent, and endure to the end, He will make us joint heirs with Him and, like Him, we will receive all that the Father hath.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/10/remembering-in-whom-we-have-trusted?lang=eng&id=p17#p17

- **Be Meek and Lowly of Heart** — Ulisses Soares (October 2013) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  As we take Christ’s name upon us, it is expected that we strive to emulate His attributes and change our character to become more like Him each day.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2013/10/be-meek-and-lowly-of-heart?lang=eng&id=p6#p6

- **Followers of Christ** — Dallin H. Oaks (April 2013) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  As part of His great Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect” (Matthew 5:48).
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2013/04/followers-of-christ?lang=eng&id=p34#p34

- **The Race of Life** — Thomas S. Monson (April 2012) · Reference
  God, our Father, and Jesus Christ, our Lord, have marked the way to perfection.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2012/04/the-race-of-life?lang=eng&id=p32#p32

- **An Ensign to the Nations** — Jeffrey R. Holland (April 2011) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  Obviously as the path of discipleship ascends, that trail gets ever more narrow until we come to that knee-buckling pinnacle of the sermon of which Elder Christofferson just spoke: “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” What was gentle in the lowlands of initial loyalty becomes deeply strenuous and very demanding at the summit of true discipleship.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2011/04/an-ensign-to-the-nations?lang=eng&id=p15#p15

- **A Pattern for All** — Merrill J. Bateman (October 2005) · Alludes to
  The prophetic call through all ages has been, “Come unto Christ, and be perfected in him” (Moroni 10:32; see also Matthew 5:48; John 10:10; 14:6), that salvation is through the Only Begotten Son of the Father (see John 1:14, 18; D&C 29:42).
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2005/10/a-pattern-for-all?lang=eng&id=p4#p4

- **Eternal Life through Jesus Christ** — John M. Madsen (April 2002) · Alludes to
  Said the risen Lord: “What manner of men ought ye to be?
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2002/04/eternal-life-through-jesus-christ?lang=eng&id=p27#p27

- **Our Father’s Plan** — Christoffel Golden Jr. (October 2001) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  Likewise, latter-day revelation reveals that our Heavenly Father ordained a great plan of happiness for all of His spirit children who had kept their first estate.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2001/10/our-fathers-plan?lang=eng&id=p5#p5

- **The Tugs and Pulls of the World** — Neal A. Maxwell (October 2000) · Alludes to
  The validation of our worth really comes from knowing who we are, not solely from what we do.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2000/10/the-tugs-and-pulls-of-the-world?lang=eng&id=p39#p39

- **Content with the Things Allotted unto Us** — Neal A. Maxwell (April 2000) · Alludes to
  Hence, we can and “ought to be content with the things … allotted unto [us],” (Alma 29:3), being circumstantially content but without being self-satisfied and behaviorally content with ourselves (see 3 Ne.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2000/04/content-with-the-things-allotted-unto-us?lang=eng&id=p28#p28

- **The Time to Prepare** — Joseph B. Wirthlin (April 1998) · Reference
  In both His Old and New World ministries, the Savior commanded, “Be ye therefore perfect.” A footnote explains that the Greek word translated as perfect means “complete, finished, fully developed.” Our Heavenly Father wants us to use this mortal probation to “fully develop” ourselves, to make the most of our talents and abilities.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1998/04/the-time-to-prepare?lang=eng&id=p10#p10

- **A New Harvest Time** — Russell M. Nelson (April 1998) · Reference
  Elijah came not only to stimulate research for ancestors.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1998/04/a-new-harvest-time?lang=eng&id=p16#p16

- **“Apply the Atoning Blood of Christ”** — Neal A. Maxwell (October 1997) · Alludes to
  Amid the array of mortal tutorials, we too should strive to “[finish our] preparations” for the third and everlasting estate, which lies ahead—thanks be to Jesus’ glorious Atonement (D&C 19:19).
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1997/10/apply-the-atoning-blood-of-christ?lang=eng&id=p16#p16

- **“He Hath Filled the Hungry with Good Things”** — Jeffrey R. Holland (October 1997) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  To those who may feel they have somehow forfeited their place at the table of the Lord, we say again with the Prophet Joseph Smith that God has “a forgiving disposition,” that Christ is “merciful and gracious, slow to anger, [is] long-suffering and full of goodness.” I have always loved that when Matthew records Jesus’ great injunction, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect,” Luke adds the Savior’s additional commentary: “Be ye therefore merciful, as your...
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1997/10/he-hath-filled-the-hungry-with-good-things?lang=eng&id=p17#p17

- **Christians in Belief and Action** — Joseph B. Wirthlin (October 1996) · Reference
  To repeat, by definition a Christian not only professes belief in the Savior, but a Christian lives and acts according to the teachings and commandments of Jesus Christ.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1996/10/christians-in-belief-and-action?lang=eng&id=p24#p24

- **Perfection Pending** — Russell M. Nelson (October 1995) · Reference
  In Matthew 5:48, the term perfect was translated from the Greek teleios, which means “complete.” Teleios is an adjective derived from the noun telos, which means “end.” The infinitive form of the verb is teleiono, which means “to reach a distant end, to be fully developed, to consummate, or to finish.” Please note that the word does not imply freedom from error; it implies achieving a distant objective.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1995/10/perfection-pending?lang=eng&id=p15#p15

- **“Deny Yourselves of All Ungodliness”** — Neal A. Maxwell (April 1995) · Alludes to
  With His perfect, spiritual symmetry, Jesus really is “the way, the truth, and the life,” His way being in such sharp contrast to the world’s ways (John 14:6).
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1995/04/deny-yourselves-of-all-ungodliness?lang=eng&id=p31#p31

- **A Mighty Change of Heart** — Spencer J. Condie (October 1993) · Alludes to
  The Savior has given each of us the soul-stretching commandment not only to behave ourselves but to become perfect, even as He and His Father are perfect (see Matt.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1993/10/a-mighty-change-of-heart?lang=eng&id=p5#p5

- **“Settle This in Your Hearts”** — Neal A. Maxwell (October 1992) · Alludes to
  Such members accept callings but not all of the accompanying responsibilities; hence, their Church chores must often be done by those already “anxiously engaged.” Some regard themselves as merely “resting” in between Church callings.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1992/10/settle-this-in-your-hearts?lang=eng&id=p7#p7

- **Some Scriptural Lessons on Leadership** — Spencer J. Condie (April 1990) · Alludes to
  Note the reference to the “process of time.” A great leader must have high expectations, tempered with patience.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1990/04/some-scriptural-lessons-on-leadership?lang=eng&id=p21#p21

- **The Way to Perfection** — Royden G. Derrick (April 1989) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in Heaven
  At the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount in the Holy Land, the Savior said, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in Heaven is perfect.” (Matt.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1989/04/the-way-to-perfection?lang=eng&id=p28#p28

- **An Invitation to Exaltation** — Thomas S. Monson (April 1988) · Alludes to
  God, our Father, and Jesus Christ, our Lord, have marked the way to perfection.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1988/04/an-invitation-to-exaltation?lang=eng&id=p35#p35

- **Patience, a Key to Happiness** — Joseph B. Wirthlin (April 1987) · Alludes to
  To the Latter-day Saints, the Lord gave patience as one of the divine attributes that qualifies a person for the ministry (see D&C 4:6), he counseled them to be patient in their afflictions (see D&C 24:8; 31:9; 54:10; 98:23–24), and he admonished them to make their decisions in patience (see D&C 107:30).
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1987/04/patience-a-key-to-happiness?lang=eng&id=p15#p15

- **“Called and Prepared from the Foundation of the World”** — Neal A. Maxwell (April 1986) · Alludes to
  In 1833, information also came indicating that Jesus grew from “grace to grace” until He received a fulness.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1986/04/called-and-prepared-from-the-foundation-of-the-world?lang=eng&id=p15#p15

- **Why Do We Serve?** — Dallin H. Oaks (October 1984) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  This principle—that our service should be for the love of God and the love of fellowmen rather than for personal advantage or any other lesser motive—is admittedly a high standard.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1984/10/why-do-we-serve?lang=eng&id=p46#p46

- **The Gospel and the Church** — Ronald E. Poelman (October 1984) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  Continuing, the Lord said to Moses, “Say unto them, Ye shall be holy: for I the Lord your God am holy.” (Lev.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1984/10/the-gospel-and-the-church?lang=eng&id=p16#p16

- **The Pattern of Our Parentage** — Boyd K. Packer (October 1984) · Quote
  > be “perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is
  Christ taught us to be “perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect” (Matt.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1984/10/the-pattern-of-our-parentage?lang=eng&id=p39#p39

- **Learning Our Father’s Will** — Hugh W. Pinnock (October 1984) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  While serving in Pennsylvania several years ago, I was pleasantly surprised to be visited by a minister of a huge Protestant congregation.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1984/10/learning-our-fathers-will?lang=eng&id=p3#p3

- **God Grant Us Faith** — Gordon B. Hinckley (October 1983) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  Said the Savior to his disciples, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” (Matt.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1983/10/god-grant-us-faith?lang=eng&id=p55#p55

- **Believers and Doers** — Mark E. Petersen (October 1982) · Alludes to
  He commands us to become perfect, even as His Father in Heaven is perfect.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1982/10/believers-and-doers?lang=eng&id=p67#p67

- **“We Believe in Being Honest”** — Mark E. Petersen (April 1982) · Alludes to
  Did He not command us to seek perfection, even as our Father which is in heaven is perfect?
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1982/04/we-believe-in-being-honest?lang=eng&id=p46#p46

- **Women for the Latter Day** — Barbara B. Smith (October 1979) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  Each woman in today’s world has responsibilities akin to those which Esther faced.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1979/10/women-for-the-latter-day?lang=eng&id=p7#p7

- **Signs of the True Church** — Mark E. Petersen (April 1979) · Alludes to
  He added that these apostles and prophets are to continue in the Church until we all become perfect (see Eph.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1979/04/signs-of-the-true-church?lang=eng&id=p41#p41

- **The Worth of Souls** — Marion G. Romney (October 1978) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father in heaven is
  To obtain this high estate Jesus enjoined men when he said, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father … in heaven is perfect” (Matt.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1978/10/the-worth-of-souls?lang=eng&id=p47#p47

- **The Beatitudes and Our Perfection** — Royden G. Derrick (April 1977) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  The more experience I gain in teaching the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, the more I am impressed with the concept of the Beatitudes shared by a friend years ago which deserves a more broad exposure.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1977/04/the-beatitudes-and-our-perfection?lang=eng&id=p13#p13

- **Perfecting the Saints** — Franklin D. Richards (October 1976) · Alludes to
  With reference to the perfecting of the Saints, the Savior has asked us to become perfect even as our Father in heaven is perfect.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1976/10/perfecting-the-saints?lang=eng&id=p9#p9

- **Our Goal Is Perfection** — William H. Bennett (October 1976) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  Our Lord and Savior in His great Sermon on the Mount gave us our greatest challenge and most important goal when He said, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” (Matt.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1976/10/our-goal-is-perfection?lang=eng&id=p2#p2

- **“Hear Ye Him!”** — Mark E. Petersen (October 1975) · Alludes to
  We teach our men and women fidelity in its loftiest meaning.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1975/10/hear-ye-him?lang=eng&id=p14#p14

- **Eternal Togetherness** — Mark E. Petersen (October 1974) · Alludes to
  He hopes that we will all become like him, just as the Savior commanded in his Sermon on the Mount.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1974/10/eternal-togetherness?lang=eng&id=p30#p30

- **The Divine Power of Repentance** — Bernard P. Brockbank (October 1974) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  Some trifle with the sacred commandment, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” (Matt.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1974/10/the-divine-power-of-repentance?lang=eng&id=p31#p31

- **There Is Need for Repentance** — ElRay L. Christiansen (October 1973) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” (Matt.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1973/10/there-is-need-for-repentance?lang=eng&id=p16#p16

- **Listen to a Prophet’s Voice** — Ezra Taft Benson (October 1972) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  A man can ask no more important question in his life than that which Paul asked: “… Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” A man can take no greater action than to pursue a course that will bring to him the answer to that question and then to carry out that answer.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1972/10/listen-to-a-prophets-voice?lang=eng&id=p5#p5

- **“Thy Will Be Done, O Lord”** — Franklin D. Richards (October 1972) · Quote
  > be perfect, “even as your Father which is in heaven is
  Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, in his life, set the pattern for us to follow in our quest for this eternal joy and happiness.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1972/10/thy-will-be-done-o-lord?lang=eng&id=p6#p6

- **Another Prophet Now Has Come!** — Mark E. Petersen (October 1972) · Alludes to
  Since the Savior commanded his people to become perfect as their Father in heaven (see Matt.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1972/10/another-prophet-now-has-come?lang=eng&id=p31#p31

- **Be a Missionary—Always—Everywhere You Go!** — William H. Bennett (April 1972) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  Then in his Sermon on the Mount, the Savior said, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” (Matt.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1972/04/be-a-missionary-always-everywhere-you-go?lang=eng&id=p5#p5

- **Our Responsibility: To Save the World** — Delbert L. Stapley (October 1971) · Quote
  > “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven
  Striving for perfection and excellence in all things.
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1971/10/our-responsibility-to-save-the-world?lang=eng&id=p26#p26

Thou Art the Christ

Amy A. Wright April 2025 Saturday Evening Session

The Sermon on the Mount is decisively the most noteworthy discourse ever delivered, pioneering in its teachings.

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God’s Intent Is to Bring You Home

Patrick Kearon April 2024 Sunday Morning Session

Does this mean anything goes with regard to how we live our lives?

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Shipshape and Bristol Fashion: Be Temple Worthy—in Good Times and Bad Times

Quentin L. Cook October 2015 Saturday Morning Session

At the commencement of the Savior’s earthly ministry in Israel and later among the Nephites, the Savior addressed the issue of happiness both in this life and in eternity.

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Ponder the Path of Thy Feet

Thomas S. Monson October 2014 Sunday Morning Session

Other instructions given to us by the Savior are at our fingertips, found in the holy scriptures.

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Never, Never, Never Give Up!

Mary N. Cook April 2010 General Young Women Meeting

Let me share with you the experience of Julie, a young woman who was able to face a challenge by following the promptings of the Holy Ghost.

Alludes to High confidence
“Come, Follow Me”

William W. Parmley October 2003 Sunday Afternoon Session

Jesus both taught and exemplified many personal qualities which we should consider as we try to follow Him.

Alludes to High confidence
Agency and Anger

Lynn G. Robbins April 1998 Sunday Afternoon Session

Nor can becoming angry be justified.

Alludes to High confidence
The Beatitudes

O. Leslie Stone October 1974 Friday Afternoon Session

Now, the first of the Beatitudes we find in Matthew 5, verse 3: “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

Alludes to High confidence
The Character of Christ

D. Todd Christofferson April 2026 Sunday Afternoon Session

Since we know that the Lord will come and establish a new earth where righteousness prevails, Peter asks, “What manner of persons ought ye to be?” He counsels that we should be preparing diligently now so that when the Lord comes, He will find us “in peace, without spot, and blameless,” leading lives of holiness.

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Sons and Daughters of God

Rubén V. Alliaud October 2024 Sunday Afternoon Session

Jesus’s commandment to be “perfect, even as [our] Father which is in heaven is perfect” is a clear reflection of His high expectations and our eternal possibilities.

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The Imperfect Harvest

Vern P. Stanfill April 2023 Sunday Afternoon Session

It is often a temptation in our world and even within the culture of the Church to obsess about perfection.

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Happy and Forever

Gerrit W. Gong October 2022 Sunday Morning Session

Fourth: The Lord gives us divine opportunity to become more like Him as we offer proxy saving temple ordinances others need but cannot do for themselves.

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Becoming like Him

Scott D. Whiting October 2020 Saturday Morning Session

To even the careful student of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, the Savior’s admonition to be “even as I am” is daunting and seemingly unattainable.

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Take Up Our Cross

Ulisses Soares October 2019 Sunday Afternoon Session

Brothers and sisters, I want to testify to you that taking upon us our cross and following the Savior requires us to follow His example and strive to become like Him, patiently facing the circumstances of life, denying and despising the appetites of the natural man, and waiting on the Lord.

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Cleansed by Repentance

Dallin H. Oaks April 2019 Sunday Afternoon Session

We need to partake of the sacrament each Sabbath day.

Alludes to High confidence
Gather Together in One All Things in Christ

David A. Bednar October 2018 Saturday Morning Session

The purpose and purification, the happiness and joy, and the continuing conversion and protection that come from “yielding [our] hearts unto God” and “[receiving] his image in [our] countenances” cannot be obtained merely by performing and checking off all the spiritual things we are supposed to do.

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The Father

Brian K. Ashton October 2018 Sunday Afternoon Session

Acquire all knowledge, power, and divine attributes.

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Be Ye Therefore Perfect—Eventually

Jeffrey R. Holland October 2017 Saturday Morning Session

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

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The Language of the Gospel

Valeri V. Cordón April 2017 Saturday Afternoon Session

As children of God, we are imperfect people trying to learn a perfect language.

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“Abide in My Love”

D. Todd Christofferson October 2016 Saturday Afternoon Session

Beyond rendering the penitent person guiltless and spotless with the promise of being “lifted up at the last day,” there is a second vital aspect of abiding in the love of God.

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What Lack I Yet?

Larry R. Lawrence October 2015 Saturday Morning Session

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

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Remembering in Whom We Have Trusted

Allen D. Haynie October 2015 Sunday Afternoon Session

“be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven

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Be Meek and Lowly of Heart

Ulisses Soares October 2013 Saturday Morning Session

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

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Followers of Christ

Dallin H. Oaks April 2013 Sunday Afternoon Session

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

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The Race of Life

Thomas S. Monson April 2012 Sunday Morning Session

God, our Father, and Jesus Christ, our Lord, have marked the way to perfection.

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An Ensign to the Nations

Jeffrey R. Holland April 2011 Sunday Afternoon Session

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

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A Pattern for All

Merrill J. Bateman October 2005 Sunday Morning Session

The prophetic call through all ages has been, “Come unto Christ, and be perfected in him” (Moroni 10:32; see also Matthew 5:48; John 10:10; 14:6), that salvation is through the Only Begotten Son of the Father (see John 1:14, 18; D&C 29:42).

Alludes to High confidence
Eternal Life through Jesus Christ

John M. Madsen April 2002 Sunday Afternoon Session

Said the risen Lord: “What manner of men ought ye to be?

Alludes to High confidence
Our Father’s Plan

Christoffel Golden Jr. October 2001 Saturday Afternoon Session

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

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The Tugs and Pulls of the World

Neal A. Maxwell October 2000 Saturday Afternoon Session

The validation of our worth really comes from knowing who we are, not solely from what we do.

Alludes to High confidence
Content with the Things Allotted unto Us

Neal A. Maxwell April 2000 Sunday Afternoon Session

Hence, we can and “ought to be content with the things … allotted unto [us],” (Alma 29:3), being circumstantially content but without being self-satisfied and behaviorally content with ourselves (see 3 Ne.

Alludes to High confidence
The Time to Prepare

Joseph B. Wirthlin April 1998 Saturday Morning Session

In both His Old and New World ministries, the Savior commanded, “Be ye therefore perfect.” A footnote explains that the Greek word translated as perfect means “complete, finished, fully developed.” Our Heavenly Father wants us to use this mortal probation to “fully develop” ourselves, to make the most of our talents and abilities.

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A New Harvest Time

Russell M. Nelson April 1998 Saturday Afternoon Session

Elijah came not only to stimulate research for ancestors.

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“Apply the Atoning Blood of Christ”

Neal A. Maxwell October 1997 Saturday Afternoon Session

Amid the array of mortal tutorials, we too should strive to “[finish our] preparations” for the third and everlasting estate, which lies ahead—thanks be to Jesus’ glorious Atonement (D&C 19:19).

Alludes to High confidence
“He Hath Filled the Hungry with Good Things”

Jeffrey R. Holland October 1997 Sunday Morning Session

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

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Christians in Belief and Action

Joseph B. Wirthlin October 1996 Sunday Afternoon Session

To repeat, by definition a Christian not only professes belief in the Savior, but a Christian lives and acts according to the teachings and commandments of Jesus Christ.

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Perfection Pending

Russell M. Nelson October 1995 Sunday Afternoon Session

In Matthew 5:48, the term perfect was translated from the Greek teleios, which means “complete.” Teleios is an adjective derived from the noun telos, which means “end.” The infinitive form of the verb is teleiono, which means “to reach a distant end, to be fully developed, to consummate, or to finish.” Please note that the word does not imply freedom from error; it implies achieving a distant objective.

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“Deny Yourselves of All Ungodliness”

Neal A. Maxwell April 1995 Sunday Morning Session

With His perfect, spiritual symmetry, Jesus really is “the way, the truth, and the life,” His way being in such sharp contrast to the world’s ways (John 14:6).

Alludes to High confidence
A Mighty Change of Heart

Spencer J. Condie October 1993 Saturday Morning Session

The Savior has given each of us the soul-stretching commandment not only to behave ourselves but to become perfect, even as He and His Father are perfect (see Matt.

Alludes to High confidence
“Settle This in Your Hearts”

Neal A. Maxwell October 1992 Sunday Morning Session

Such members accept callings but not all of the accompanying responsibilities; hence, their Church chores must often be done by those already “anxiously engaged.” Some regard themselves as merely “resting” in between Church callings.

Alludes to High confidence
Some Scriptural Lessons on Leadership

Spencer J. Condie April 1990 Saturday Afternoon Session

Note the reference to the “process of time.” A great leader must have high expectations, tempered with patience.

Alludes to High confidence
The Way to Perfection

Royden G. Derrick April 1989 Sunday Afternoon Session

“Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in Heaven

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An Invitation to Exaltation

Thomas S. Monson April 1988 Sunday Morning Session

God, our Father, and Jesus Christ, our Lord, have marked the way to perfection.

Alludes to High confidence
Patience, a Key to Happiness

Joseph B. Wirthlin April 1987 Saturday Afternoon Session

To the Latter-day Saints, the Lord gave patience as one of the divine attributes that qualifies a person for the ministry (see D&C 4:6), he counseled them to be patient in their afflictions (see D&C 24:8; 31:9; 54:10; 98:23–24), and he admonished them to make their decisions in patience (see D&C 107:30).

Alludes to High confidence
“Called and Prepared from the Foundation of the World”

Neal A. Maxwell April 1986 Priesthood Session

In 1833, information also came indicating that Jesus grew from “grace to grace” until He received a fulness.

Alludes to High confidence
Why Do We Serve?

Dallin H. Oaks October 1984 Saturday Morning Session

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

Quote High confidence
The Gospel and the Church

Ronald E. Poelman October 1984 Sunday Morning Session

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

Quote High confidence
The Pattern of Our Parentage

Boyd K. Packer October 1984 Sunday Morning Session

be “perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is

Quote High confidence
Learning Our Father’s Will

Hugh W. Pinnock October 1984 Sunday Afternoon Session

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

Quote High confidence
God Grant Us Faith

Gordon B. Hinckley October 1983 Sunday Morning Session

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

Quote High confidence
Believers and Doers

Mark E. Petersen October 1982 Saturday Morning Session

He commands us to become perfect, even as His Father in Heaven is perfect.

Alludes to High confidence
“We Believe in Being Honest”

Mark E. Petersen April 1982 Saturday Morning Session

Did He not command us to seek perfection, even as our Father which is in heaven is perfect?

Alludes to High confidence
Women for the Latter Day

Barbara B. Smith October 1979 Women’s Fireside Addresses

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

Quote High confidence
Signs of the True Church

Mark E. Petersen April 1979 Saturday Afternoon Session

He added that these apostles and prophets are to continue in the Church until we all become perfect (see Eph.

Alludes to High confidence
The Worth of Souls

Marion G. Romney October 1978 Saturday Morning Session

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

Quote High confidence
The Beatitudes and Our Perfection

Royden G. Derrick April 1977 Sunday Morning Session

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

Quote High confidence
Perfecting the Saints

Franklin D. Richards October 1976 Friday Morning Session

With reference to the perfecting of the Saints, the Savior has asked us to become perfect even as our Father in heaven is perfect.

Alludes to High confidence
Our Goal Is Perfection

William H. Bennett October 1976 Friday Afternoon Session

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

Quote High confidence
“Hear Ye Him!”

Mark E. Petersen October 1975 Saturday Afternoon Session

We teach our men and women fidelity in its loftiest meaning.

Alludes to High confidence
Eternal Togetherness

Mark E. Petersen October 1974 Saturday Morning Session

He hopes that we will all become like him, just as the Savior commanded in his Sermon on the Mount.

Alludes to High confidence
The Divine Power of Repentance

Bernard P. Brockbank October 1974 Saturday Afternoon Session

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

Quote High confidence
There Is Need for Repentance

ElRay L. Christiansen October 1973 Friday Afternoon Session

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

Quote High confidence
Listen to a Prophet’s Voice

Ezra Taft Benson October 1972 Friday Afternoon Session

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

Quote High confidence
“Thy Will Be Done, O Lord”

Franklin D. Richards October 1972 Saturday Afternoon Session

be perfect, “even as your Father which is in heaven is

Quote High confidence
Another Prophet Now Has Come!

Mark E. Petersen October 1972 Sunday Morning Session

Since the Savior commanded his people to become perfect as their Father in heaven (see Matt.

Alludes to High confidence
Be a Missionary—Always—Everywhere You Go!

William H. Bennett April 1972 Saturday Afternoon Session

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

Quote High confidence
Our Responsibility: To Save the World

Delbert L. Stapley October 1971 Saturday Afternoon Session

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

Quote High confidence

Topical Guide

God the Father, Elohim
God, Perfection of
God, the Standard of Righteousness
Man, Potential to Become like Heavenly Father
Man, a Spirit Child of Heavenly Father
Mission of Early Saints
Objectives
Perfection, Perfect, Perfectly

Bible Dictionary

Holiness
Sermon on the Mount

Jesus the Christ

Chapter 17: The Sermon on the Mount

James E. Talmage

Relative Perfection.—Our Lord’s admonition to men to become perfect, even as the Father is perfect (Matthew 5:48) cannot rationally be construed otherwise than as implying the possibility of such achievement.

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