Colossians 1:28

KJV

Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:

KJV (with Strong's)

Whom {G3739} we {G2249} preach {G2605}, warning {G3560} every {G3956} man {G444}, and {G2532} teaching {G1321} every {G3956} man {G444} in {G1722} all {G3956} wisdom {G4678}; that {G2443} we may present {G3936} every {G3956} man {G444} perfect {G5046} in {G1722} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424}:

Complete Jewish Bible

We, for our part, proclaim him; we warn, confront and teach everyone in all wisdom; so that we may present everyone as having reached the goal, united with the Messiah.

Berean Standard Bible

We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.

American Standard Version

whom we proclaim, admonishing every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Colossians 1:28 encapsulates the profound purpose of Paul's apostolic ministry: to tirelessly proclaim Jesus Christ, employing both corrective admonition and comprehensive instruction to guide every individual toward spiritual maturity. This endeavor aims to present each believer as complete and fully developed in their relationship with Christ Jesus, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel and establishing Christ as the singular focus and ultimate goal of all Christian growth and service.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Colossians 1:28 stands as a pivotal summary statement within Paul's letter, following a majestic exposition of Christ's supremacy and cosmic preeminence. Paul begins by establishing Christ as the [image of the invisible God and the firstborn over all creation](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ's Supremacy"), through whom all things were created and sustained. He then presents Christ as the [head of the body, the church](/colossians/1-18 "Colossians 1:18 - Christ as Head of the Church"), reconciling all things to Himself through His cross. Having detailed the profound theological truths of Christ's person and work, and the mystery that is [Christ in you, the hope of glory](/colossians/1-27 "Colossians 1:27 - Christ in You"), Paul transitions to explain the *why* behind his own arduous ministry. Verse 28 clarifies that his suffering and labor (mentioned in [Colossians 1:24](/colossians/1-24 "Colossians 1:24 - Paul's Suffering for the Church")) are not arbitrary but are directly tied to this grand purpose of presenting every believer mature in Christ. It serves as a bridge from the theological foundation to the practical implications for the Colossian church and Paul's ongoing mission.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The church in Colossae, located in the Lycus Valley of Phrygia (modern-day Turkey), was facing a complex blend of philosophical and religious challenges often referred to as the "Colossian heresy." This syncretistic threat combined elements of Gnosticism (emphasizing secret knowledge and a dualistic view of matter as evil), Jewish legalism (insisting on dietary laws, circumcision, and observance of festivals), asceticism (severe self-discipline), and angel worship. These teachings diminished the unique and all-sufficient role of Christ, suggesting that spiritual completeness required adherence to additional rituals or esoteric knowledge. Paul's letter, and specifically [Colossians 1:28](/colossians/1-28 "Colossians 1:28 - Paul's Ministry Goal"), directly confronts these deviations by asserting that true wisdom and spiritual perfection are found *solely* in Christ. His emphasis on "all wisdom" and "perfect in Christ Jesus" serves as a direct antidote to the false teachings that promised completeness through other means.
* **Key Themes:** Colossians 1:28 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the letter and Pauline theology. Foremost is the **Supremacy and Sufficiency of Christ**, reiterating that Christ is the exclusive object of proclamation and the sole source of true spiritual maturity. Another key theme is **Comprehensive Discipleship**, highlighting the dual nature of spiritual formation through both "warning" (corrective discipline and admonition against error) and "teaching" (systematic instruction in divine truth). This holistic approach ensures believers are not only protected from false doctrine but also grounded in sound theology. Finally, the verse underscores the theme of **Spiritual Maturity and Completeness**, presenting it as the ultimate goal of Christian ministry. This maturity, described as "perfect in Christ Jesus," is not sinless perfection but a state of full development, readiness, and functionality within the body of Christ, equipped to live out the implications of Christ's Lordship, as further elaborated in [Colossians 2:6-7](/colossians/2-6-7 "Colossians 2:6-7 - Rooted and Built Up in Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **preach (Greek, _katangéllō'_):** This word, derived from *katá* (down, against) and *ággelos* (messenger), means "to proclaim, promulgate, declare, or announce publicly." It implies a forceful, authoritative, and widespread declaration. In the context of [Colossians 1:28](/colossians/1-28 "Colossians 1:28 - Paul's Ministry Goal"), it signifies Paul's primary task: to make Christ known universally and unmistakably, serving as a herald of the Gospel.
* **warning (Greek, _nouthetéō'_):** From the same root as *nouthesía* (admonition), this verb means "to put in mind," implying to caution, admonish, or reprove gently. It involves instructing someone in a way that aims to correct their thinking or behavior, often in the face of error or potential harm. It's a loving, corrective discipline, distinct from mere teaching, focused on guiding individuals away from spiritual danger and towards sound living.
* **perfect (Greek, _téleios'_):** Derived from *télos* (end, goal), this adjective signifies "complete, mature, fully developed, or having reached its intended end." In a spiritual context, it does not denote absolute sinless perfection, but rather a state of spiritual adulthood, completeness, and readiness for purpose. It contrasts with spiritual infancy or immaturity, indicating a believer who is fully equipped, stable in faith, and functioning effectively in Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Whom we preach":** This opening phrase immediately establishes the singular focus of Paul's ministry: Jesus Christ. The "Whom" (G3739, *hós*) refers back to Christ, who is the subject of the preceding verses, highlighting that the content of the Gospel message is not a philosophy or a set of rules, but a person—the resurrected and reigning Lord. Paul's entire mission revolves around making Christ known in all His supremacy and sufficiency.
* **"warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom":** This clause describes the dual methodology of Paul's comprehensive discipleship. "Warning" (G3560, *nouthetéō*) involves admonition and correction, particularly in light of the false teachings prevalent in Colossae. It's a protective aspect of ministry, guarding believers from error and sin. "Teaching" (G1321, *didáskō*) refers to systematic instruction in God's truth, building up believers in sound doctrine. The repetition of "every man" (G3956, *pâs* + G444, *ánthrōpos*) emphasizes the universal scope of this ministry—it is for all, without exception. The phrase "in all wisdom" (G1722, *en* + G3956, *pâs* + G4678, *sophía*) suggests that this teaching is not merely intellectual but encompasses a holistic, Spirit-led understanding of God's revealed truth, contrasting with human wisdom or the false wisdom of the Colossian heresy.
* **"that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus":** This final clause states the ultimate purpose and desired outcome of Paul's ministry. The phrase "that we may present" (G2443, *hína* + G3936, *parístēmi*) indicates a goal-oriented action, much like presenting a bride to a groom or a student to a teacher upon completion. The aim is to bring "every man" to a state of being "perfect" (G5046, *téleios*)—meaning mature, complete, and fully developed in their faith. Crucially, this perfection is "in Christ Jesus" (G1722, *en* + G5547, *Christós* + G2424, *Iēsoûs*), emphasizing that spiritual maturity is not achieved through human effort or external rituals, but is a state realized *within* the sphere of one's union with Christ. He is both the standard and the means of this completeness.

#### Literary Devices
Colossians 1:28 employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is **Repetition**, specifically the phrase "every man" (G3956, *pâs* + G444, *ánthrōpos*), which appears three times in quick succession. This anaphoric repetition serves to emphasize the universal scope and inclusive nature of Paul's ministry—it is directed towards all believers, without partiality, and aims for the complete spiritual development of each individual. This also creates a sense of **Emphasis** on the comprehensive nature of the apostolic mission. Furthermore, the verse functions as a **Purpose Clause**, introduced by the Greek conjunction *hína* (G2443, "that"), clearly stating the ultimate goal of Paul's preaching, warning, and teaching. This teleological structure highlights the intentionality and divine aim behind his arduous labor. Finally, the concept of being "perfect in Christ Jesus" can be seen as a form of **Metaphor** for spiritual maturity, likening the process of growth in faith to a journey towards completeness or full development, much like a plant reaching its full bloom or a building being fully constructed.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Colossians 1:28 profoundly articulates the Christ-centered nature of true Christian ministry and spiritual formation. It underscores that all genuine spiritual growth and maturity are found exclusively in and through union with Jesus Christ, rather than through human effort, legalistic adherence, or esoteric knowledge. The verse reveals God's ultimate design for humanity: not merely salvation from sin, but transformation into the image of His Son, leading to a state of completeness and readiness for His purposes. This "perfection" is a dynamic process of sanctification, where believers are continually being conformed to Christ's character, equipped for service, and grounded in truth. It highlights the indispensable roles of both teaching (imparting knowledge) and warning (correcting error and behavior) in the discipleship process, demonstrating that love for God and neighbor necessitates both instruction and admonition. The theological implication is that ministry, at its core, is about presenting people to God, fully developed and ready, by pointing them consistently and exclusively to Christ.

* [Ephesians 4:11-13](/ephesians/4-11-13 "Equipping the Saints for Ministry")
* [Hebrews 5:14](/hebrews/5-14 "Mature Believers Discerning Good and Evil")
* [2 Timothy 3:16-17](/2_timothy/3-16-17 "Scripture Equips for Every Good Work")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Colossians 1:28 provides a timeless blueprint for both Christian leaders and individual believers. For those in ministry, it serves as a crucial reminder that the core of our calling is the unwavering proclamation of Christ, not self-promotion or human philosophy. Our methods must be comprehensive, embracing both the often-unpopular but necessary task of "warning" against sin and error, and the diligent, patient work of "teaching" sound doctrine. The ultimate aim is not merely to gain converts, but to see every person grow into spiritual maturity, fully equipped and established in Christ. For individual believers, this verse is a powerful call to embrace the journey of sanctification. We are not meant to remain spiritual infants but to actively pursue "all wisdom" and allow ourselves to be both taught and corrected by God's Word and by those He has placed over us. Our growth is a lifelong process, and its measure is our increasing conformity to Christ, enabling us to live out our faith with integrity, discernment, and purpose. It challenges us to ask: Am I actively seeking to grow in Christ? Am I open to both the teaching and the warning that lead to maturity? Is Christ truly the center and goal of my spiritual pursuits?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my understanding of "preaching Christ" align with Paul's emphasis in this verse?**
* **In what areas of my life do I need to be more open to "warning" (admonition or correction) for my spiritual growth?**
* **Am I actively pursuing "all wisdom" through diligent study of God's Word and prayer, and how does this pursuit lead me to greater maturity in Christ?**
* **What does "perfect in Christ Jesus" look like in my daily life, and what steps can I take to move closer to that spiritual completeness?**

### FAQ

**What does Paul mean by "perfect" in this verse? Is it about being sinless?**

Answer: No, Paul does not mean absolute sinless perfection in this context. The Greek word *téleios* (G5046) means "complete, mature, fully developed, or having reached its intended end." It refers to spiritual maturity, not moral flawlessness. Just as a child grows into a mature adult, believers are meant to grow out of spiritual infancy into a state of completeness and readiness for God's purposes. This involves being fully equipped in understanding, character, and ability to live out their faith effectively. It's about being whole and well-rounded in Christ, not about achieving a state of never sinning again. This concept of maturity is a recurring theme in Paul's writings, as seen in [Ephesians 4:13](/ephesians/4-13 "Ephesians 4:13 - Attaining Unity and Maturity in Christ").

**What is the difference between "warning" and "teaching" as Paul uses them here?**

Answer: While both are aspects of discipleship, "warning" (Greek, *nouthetéō*) primarily involves admonition, correction, and setting boundaries, often in response to false teaching, sinful behavior, or potential spiritual danger. It's a loving, corrective discipline aimed at guiding believers away from error and towards sound living. "Teaching" (Greek, *didáskō*), on the other hand, refers to systematic instruction in divine truth, imparting knowledge, understanding, and wisdom from God's Word. It builds up believers in doctrine and understanding. Both are essential for comprehensive spiritual formation: warning protects and corrects, while teaching builds and instructs, leading to a well-rounded and mature faith. Paul often combined these, as seen in his farewell address to the Ephesian elders in [Acts 20:31](/acts/20-31 "Acts 20:31 - Paul's Warning and Teaching").

**Is this verse only applicable to pastors or those in formal ministry?**

Answer: While Colossians 1:28 describes Paul's apostolic ministry and serves as a blueprint for those in formal teaching and leadership roles within the church, its principles extend to all believers. Every Christian is called to participate in the Great Commission, which includes making disciples by "teaching them to observe all things" that Christ commanded ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")). While not everyone is called to be a public preacher or teacher, all believers are called to live Christ-centered lives, to encourage and admonish one another ([Romans 15:14](/romans/15-14 "Romans 15:14 - Admonishing One Another")), and to grow in spiritual maturity. The goal of being "perfect in Christ Jesus" is for every individual believer, and therefore, the means to that end—the proclamation of Christ, warning, and teaching—are relevant to the entire body of Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Colossians 1:28, while articulating Paul's ministerial purpose, finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in Christ Himself. It is Christ who is the content of the preaching, the standard of all wisdom, and the source of all perfection. We preach Christ because He is the [wisdom of God and the power of God](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ, God's Wisdom and Power"), the one in whom [all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in Whom All Wisdom Dwells"). The "warning" and "teaching" are not arbitrary human methods but are rooted in Christ's own example as the [Great Teacher](/john/13-13 "John 13:13 - Jesus as Teacher and Lord") and the one who perfectly embodied truth and grace. He is the one who admonished His disciples, corrected their misunderstandings, and patiently instructed them, preparing them for their mission. Ultimately, the goal of presenting "every man perfect in Christ Jesus" is fulfilled because Christ Himself is our perfection. He is the [author and finisher of our faith](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith"), the one who makes us complete through His atoning work on the cross and His ongoing sanctifying work by the Holy Spirit. Our maturity is not an independent achievement but a gracious gift and ongoing process of being conformed to the image of the [perfect Son](/hebrews/7-28 "Hebrews 7:28 - Christ, the Perfect Son"), Jesus Christ, in whom we are found complete ([Colossians 2:10](/colossians/2-10 "Colossians 2:10 - Complete in Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Jeremiah 3:15

And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.

Ephesians 5:27

That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

Ephesians 4:11

And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

Ephesians 4:13

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:

Matthew 5:48

Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

Colossians 3:16

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

2 Timothy 2:24

And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all [men], apt to teach, patient,