Colossians 1:28

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

Colossians 1:28 (KJV)

Context

Paul wrote this letter to the church in Colossae, a city in ancient Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), to address doctrinal concerns and emphasize the preeminence of Christ. In this verse, he describes his ministry and purpose, particularly the proclamation of Christ.

Meaning

The pronoun “whom” refers to Jesus Christ, the central focus of Paul’s preaching. The Greek verb translated “preach” (katangellomen) means to proclaim or announce publicly. Paul’s ministry was a public declaration of Christ, not of human wisdom or philosophy.

“Warning every man” translates the Greek word nouthetountes, which means admonishing or counseling. This involves alerting believers to dangers such as false teaching and correcting wrong paths. “Teaching every man in all wisdom” (didaskontes) means instructing comprehensively, so that believers grow in understanding and apply God’s truth wisely.

The goal is “that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” The Greek word teleion means perfect, complete, or mature. Paul aimed to present every person mature in Christ, not merely informed. This maturity is found only in union with Christ, not through human effort alone.

Application

Paul’s method combines warning and teaching, showing that love for others includes both correction and instruction. Every believer is called to help others grow toward maturity in Christ, using wisdom and patience.

Reflection

Consider how your own words and actions can both warn and teach others, always aiming to present them mature in Christ Jesus.