Download a PDF here:
This verse is color-coded green as it pertains directly to Paul and Timothy's ministry with the Colossians and others during their time. Were Paul present today, his actions and teachings would likely mirror those documented here, indicating its ongoing though indirect relevance to contemporary followers.
When Paul says that he and Timothy are “warning every man,” he uses the word νουθετέω (noutheteo), a word derived from the Greek words nous, meaning "mind," and tithemi, meaning "to place." In essence, it means to put the mind in its place. In the context of Paul's ministry, it implies the act of instructing or warning others in order to guide their thoughts and behavior towards the teachings of Christ.
The term is sometimes used today in the context of "nouthetic counseling," a form of pastoral counseling that relies heavily on scriptures. Nouthetic counseling, also known as Biblical counseling, uses the teachings and principles found in the Bible to guide individuals towards resolution of their problems and conflicts.
In this context, "warning" and "teaching" are not separate tasks but are intertwined aspects of Paul and Timothy's ministry. These words operate as adverbs in this sentence, describing the manner in which they preach Jesus Christ. This preaching is further characterized as being done "in all wisdom," implying a deep understanding and discernment of spiritual truths.
Their ultimate goal, as stated, is to "present every man perfect in Christ Jesus." Here, the word "present" mirrors its usage in verse 22 - it denotes the act of bringing someone near to God.
Crucially, their desire is for every individual to be found "perfect in Christ Jesus." It is through union with Christ Jesus that this perfection is achieved. This perfection does not come from a thorough understanding of Paul's teachings, but rather through the transformative power of being "in Christ Jesus."
In the "whereunto" reference to the preaching of verse 27, Paul's emphasis on "work" words such as "labour," "striving," "working," and "worketh" signifies his dedicated and diligent approach towards his mission. This notion of Paul's commitment to his task is further validated by his statement in 1 Corinthians 15:10, where he mentions, "I laboured more abundantly than they all." It underscores Paul's seriousness about his duty and his unrelenting efforts in preaching the grace of God through Christ Jesus.
In the context of Paul's ministry, he describes a level of energy or "dynamic energy" that seems to be beyond human capability. The wording suggests a supernatural source for this energy. In essence, Paul claims that his strenuous efforts in his ministry are fueled not by his own strength, but by the power of God working within him.
It's crucial to understand that Paul's claim is specific to his own experience and do not necessarily apply to today's preachers or ministers. Contemporary preachers can undoubtedly be energized and motivated by their message and work, but they likely don't experience the same divine or "supernatural" energy that Paul describes. This observation doesn't lessen the passion or dedication of modern preachers; it simply emphasizes the unique and extraordinary nature of Paul's ministry. Paul mentions “the signs of an apostle” that were displayed among the Corinthians in 2 Corinthians 12:12. However, he also refers to a future time that would be characterized by “faith, hope, and charity” (1 Cor. 13:13). As a cessationist, I believe we are living in that era.
This verse is marked blue, meaning it is directly applicable to us, based on the phrase "for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh." Since we, living today, have obviously not seen Paul's face in the flesh, his writing here can be interpreted as directly applicable to us.
In addition, he is writing to those in Colossae and Laodicea, places where he apparently has not been. His desire is for them (and thus us) to understand the "great conflict" he had in his ministry. The term "conflict" does not signify any internal struggle on Paul's part, but rather a physical struggle to fulfill his ministry. Paul faced opponents who were doing everything they could to obstruct the progress of his ministry.
The Greek word translated “conflict” is ἀγών (agon). It's important to note that this should not be translated or understood as "agony," as the English term carries connotations that were not present in Paul's time. In its original context, the word ἀγών (agon) referred to the place where athletic games were held in the Greco-Roman world. Thus, it can be seen as a reference to a struggle or contest. If Paul were to express this idea in current language, he might have said, "You wouldn't believe the fights I've had for you." We could reference Acts 14:19, 16:22-24, and 2 Corinthians 11:25 as examples of these struggles.
Paul's striving is for a twofold purpose. First, he hopes that "their hearts" - the hearts of those who have not seen him in the flesh - "might be comforted." Paul's use of the pronoun underscores his focus on those who have not met him personally, further justifying the blue color-code.