Therefore, be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.
In this passage Jesus sums up His teaching by calling His followers to strive to be perfect, as God is. Here the word “perfect” does not refer to attaining sinlessness, but rather expresses a person’s purposefulness and desire to live by divine standards—in love, mercy, righteousness, and forgiveness. God is perfect in His love, goodness, and righteousness, and Jesus urges His followers to seek to become like Him, being loving and kind not only toward friends but also toward enemies. To be perfect means to have a heart that is ready to forgive, support, and love everyone, regardless of their attitude. In this way, Jesus’ call is that we strive toward the highest spiritual values, becoming more and more like God in our love and deeds.