1 Corinthians 13:9, 10, “For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.” The word perfect has the thought of complete or mature in the Greek language. So, what things become complete or mature?
One thing that became complete is the whole New Testament. The developing Christian church needed the entire instruction, encouragement, and prophecies of the New Testament. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness…” 2 Timothy 3:16
Another aspect of maturity is the development of Christian character in Christ. 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17 read, “…All scripture is profitable…that the man of God may be perfect (mature), throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17.
Compare Ephesians 4:13 (KJV), “Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.” The NIV translates the word perfect as mature, “until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”
A third aspect of completeness occurs when the members of the Body of Christ are resurrected and are with Jesus in heaven. Then all imperfection of understanding will cease. We shall know as we are known and all doubts, cares, and bits of confusion will cease.
