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:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Christ is the one Paul proclaims, warning and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so as to present every person mature in him.
What Does Colossians 1:28 Mean?
Paul states the aim of his whole ministry: whom we preach -- Christ, and not the speculations the false teachers prized. The center of his message is a person, proclaimed openly.
His method is comprehensive and personal: warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom. The threefold every man insists that this is for all, not an elite few -- there is no inner circle reserved for the advanced. And the goal is to present every man perfect in Christ Jesus, that is, mature, complete, fully grown in him. Paul labors not merely to make converts but to bring believers to ripeness. The true wisdom is for everyone, and it leads toward maturity in Christ rather than esoteric status. Every person who belongs to Christ is meant to grow up into him, and that growth is the very purpose of faithful teaching.
In the Original Language
Teleios (τέλειος), 'perfect' -- complete, mature, fully grown; brought to the intended goal rather than flawlessly sinless.