Colossians 1:28

In speaking about his ministry, Paul shares about his attitude, his willingness to suffer for the sake of the gospel message. He also shares about his call, his call to preach the fullness of the Word of God.

Today, we will consider what Paul sees to be his purpose in ministry, that is to make fully-devoted and fully-developed followers of Jesus Christ.

He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. Colossians 1:28 NIV

Notice that Paul views the process of discipleship as a journey rather than an event. Paul understood that if he was to present everyone “fully mature in Christ”, it would take a significant investment of “admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom.” Let’s break this down a bit: admonishing carries the idea of challenging the way another person thinks and acts. How many of us really appreciate a good admonishment? Teaching is vitally important but how many of us are really that interested in a good lesson? (Some of you couldn’t wait to get out of school so you would never have to do another homework assignment again!) Paul once again stresses the importance of presenting the fullness of the word of God with “all wisdom”. Paul doesn’t believe in holding anything back. He passionately preaches ALL the word of God to ALL the people with ALL wisdom that comes from the Holy Spirit. That is his purpose in life and ministry.

In today’s world, how many churches and ministries are intentionally designed to disciple followers of Christ so that they can be presented “fully mature” in their faith? Paul designed his ministry so that he could have maximum impact on all people so that the lives of many people could be radically transformed by the power of God.

Questions to consider:
How willing are you to be admonished and taught in your faith?
What plan does your church have to intentionally disciple you and others to grow to become the person God created you to be?
Ask God to plant you in a place where you can grow fully into the person God has created you to be.