It is he whom we proclaim, admonishing everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. Colossians 1:28 NABRE
Paul writing to Colossae, a mostly Gentile community, is stressing that God is for everyone! Paul describes that he has suffered for Christ, he wants others to know he is joy filled to be able to do the work of God, knowing he will suffer. Paul is incarcerated when writing this letter. We can imagine Paul chained to a dark wall in a wet cave dictating this letter to a companion who may hand carry it to the community, and in this position he demonstrates joy to be chosen to be a minister. Paul also expresses that it is not by his own strength he is able to be a minister, but through the grace and strength given to him by God. Paul’s mission is Christ who is the totality of Wisdom. He seeks to foster continuous growth in the Colossians (and us.) Becoming perfect in Christ is a process of transformation and maturation, also requiring grace. Paul’s pastoral goal is leading people to Christ, not simply to faith, baptism and church membership (things already accomplished in many) but also to the perfection of holiness. As each individual believer is brought to deeper conformity with Christ, the entire body achieves growth that comes from God. Paul’s ultimate goal is to present believers perfect in Christ, which likely won’t be completed until the second coming of Christ. Paul stresses this perfection is available to everyone, no one is left out.
Paul’s pastoral goal for the believer of his day applies for us today. We are to be more than faithful, baptized, church members, we are called to perfection. Once we come to Christ we must continue to deepen in maturity, aiming for perfection in Christ.
Are you continually growing in Christ? Do you seek maturity?
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