²⁶ the mystery^(A) that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. ²⁷ To them God has chosen to make known^(B) among the Gentiles the glorious riches^(C) of this mystery, which is Christ in you,^(D) the hope of glory.

²⁸ He is the one we proclaim, admonishing^(E) and teaching everyone with all wisdom,^(F) so that we may present everyone fully mature^(G) in Christ. ²⁹ To this end I strenuously^(H) contend^(I) with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.^(J)

2 I want you to know how hard I am contending^(K) for you and for those at Laodicea,^(L) and for all who have not met me personally. ² My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart^(M) and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery^(N) of God, namely, Christ, ³ in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.^{(O) 4} I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments.^{(P) 5} For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit^(Q) and delight to see how disciplined^(R) you are and how firm^(S) your faith in Christ^(T) is.

Spiritual Fullness in Christ

⁶ So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord,^(U) continue to live your lives in him, ⁷ rooted^(V) and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught,^(W) and overflowing with thankfulness.

⁸ See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy,^(X) which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces^[a] of this world^(Y) rather than on Christ.

⁹ For in Christ all the fullness^(Z) of the Deity lives in bodily form,