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

COLOSSIANS 1:28KJV
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Colossians 1:28 (KJV)

What does Colossians 1:28 mean?

Colossians 1:28 describes how Paul and his companions proclaim Christ, warning and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that every person might be presented as mature and complete in Christ Jesus. The verse emphasizes the universal scope of their message and their goal of spiritual maturity for every believer.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Colossae, explaining his ministry’s purpose and method. He stresses that their work is not just about spreading information, but about helping every individual grow fully in their relationship with Christ. The verse highlights both the seriousness (“warning”) and the instruction (“teaching”) involved in guiding others toward spiritual wholeness.

The Greek behind Colossians 1:28

  • "Preach" (καταγγέλλω, katangellō): This word means to proclaim or announce publicly. In this context, it shows that Paul’s message about Christ is not private or selective, but boldly declared to all.
  • "Warning" (νουθετέω, noutheteō): This carries the idea of giving counsel or admonition, not just information. Paul’s ministry involves urging people to turn from error as well as teaching them truth.
  • "Perfect" (τέλειος, teleios): This Greek word means mature, complete, or fully developed. Paul’s aim is not just initial belief, but that each person reaches full maturity in Christ, not lacking in any spiritual quality.

Why Colossians 1:28 matters

  • Colossians 1:28 makes clear that the message about Christ is for every person, not just a select group, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the gospel.
  • The verse shows that Christian teaching involves both warning against error and positive instruction, highlighting a balanced approach to spiritual growth.
  • By focusing on presenting everyone “perfect” or mature in Christ, Paul sets a high goal for Christian life—not just conversion, but ongoing, complete transformation.

Where else these words appear

“warning” Greek G3560 · used in 8 verses

  • Acts 20:31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
  • 1 Corinthians 4:14 I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you.
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;

“preach” Greek G2605 · used in 17 verses

  • Acts 4:2 Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.
  • Acts 16:21 And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.
  • Romans 1:8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.

“perfect” Greek G5046 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
  • 1 Corinthians 14:20 Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.
  • Hebrews 9:11 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;

“present” Greek G3936 · used in 40 verses

  • Matthew 26:53 Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?
  • Acts 1:10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
  • Romans 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?