According to Ellen White, those who are truly seeking to perfect their Christian character will never claim to be sinless. In fact, she states that the closer one draws to Christ, the more aware they become of their own imperfections. Here are some key points from her writings on this topic: * **The Claim of Sinlessness is Evidence of a Lack of Knowledge:** "Those who are truly seeking to perfect Christian character will never indulge the thought that they are sinless. The more their minds dwell upon the character of Christ, and the nearer they approach to his divine image, the more clearly will they discern its spotless perfection, and the more deeply will they feel their own weakness and defects. Those who claim to be without sin, give evidence that they are far from holy. It is because they have no true knowledge of Christ that they can look upon themselves as reflecting his image." (4SP 302.1) * **The Standard is God's Perfect Law:** The requirement for eternal life has always been perfect obedience and righteousness, a standard met only by Christ. "The condition of eternal life is now just what it always has been,—just what it was in Paradise before the fall of our first parents,—perfect obedience to the law of God, perfect righteousness." (SC 62.1) * **Christ is Our Example of Perfection:** "The life of Christ was a perfect fulfillment of every precept of the law. He said, 'I have kept My Father's commandments.' His life is our example of obedience and service." (MH 451.3) * **Perfection of Character is the Goal:** The aim is to achieve moral perfection, and any imperfection in character is considered sin. "God will accept only those who are determined to aim high. He places every human agent under obligation to do his best. Moral perfection is required of all. Never should we lower the standard of righteousness in order to accommodate inherited or cultivated tendencies to wrong-doing. We need to understand that imperfection of character is sin." (COL 330.2) * **Sanctification is a Lifelong Process:** The process of sanctification involves the entire being—spirit, soul, and body—and is a continuous cleansing from sin. Paul's words are referenced: "Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." (2 Corinthians 7:1, quoted in 4SP 302.2) In summary, while believers are called to strive for moral perfection and holiness, Ellen White teaches that they will never reach a state in this life where they can claim to be without sin. The journey of a Christian is one of continual growth and reliance on Christ's perfect righteousness.