What does the Bible mean when it refers to that which is perfect coming and that which is in part being done away with?


Let's examine that particular section of Scripture.

Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

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. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.
(1 Cor. 13:8-13 KJV)

I believe that which is perfect is referring to the day of resurrection (1 Thess. 4:13-18). This is the day when Jesus will return and the dead are raised and we who are alive will be caught up to meet Him. Verse twelve supports this.

When that which is perfect comes then we'll see face to face and know even as we are known. We have not yet seen God face to face, but in that day we shall. We don't yet know even as we are known, but in that day we will have our minds illuminated by God.

At that time we will no longer need the Bible (it will be written on our hearts), the gifts of the Spirit, or even money. We will be in the presence of our God and out of these natural bodies which so limit us.

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