Every divine command is for the development, progress, and benefit of humanity. Every divine command is imperative because it emanates from Principle, Love, the all-loving, all-knowing Mind. The challenging and exacting command of Christ Jesus (Matt. 5:48), "Be ye therefore perfect," resounds throughout the ages. In this command he further sets forth the celestial standard of perfection, "even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect."
"Be ye therefore perfect" is not a plea, a request, or a choice. It is an imperative command, a command not to become gradually perfect, but here and now to be one's true self, the expression of health, harmony, joyousness, perfection, the image of God. This authoritative order is without reservation, speculation, or limitation, because to be perfect is our Father's irrevocable ultimatum.
Mary Baker Eddy, the inspired author of the textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," quoting Christ Jesus' words, "Be ye therefore perfect," and other injunctions, prefaces them with this dynamic admonition (p. 37): "Hear these imperative commands." Imperative commands call for immediate attention and action and are not to be relegated to future consideration or adaptation. "Imperative" signifies, "Not to be avoided or evaded; obligatory; binding; compulsory."
