Definition and Concept

In biblical theology, the concept of "fullness" encompasses the idea of completeness, abundance, and the totality of God's presence and work. It is a term that appears in various contexts throughout Scripture, often signifying the fulfillment of God's promises, the completeness of His creation, and the abundance of His grace and truth.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as "fullness" is "מְלֹא" (melo). It is used to describe the earth's abundance and God's provision. For example, Psalm 24:1 states, "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein." This verse emphasizes God's sovereignty over creation and the completeness of His ownership and provision.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the Greek word "πλήρωμα" (plērōma) is frequently used to convey the idea of fullness. This term is particularly significant in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In Colossians 1:19, Paul writes, "For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Him," referring to Christ. This verse highlights the complete and perfect nature of Christ as the embodiment of God's presence and attributes.

Fullness in Christ

The fullness of God dwelling in Christ is a central theme in the New Testament. Colossians 2:9-10 further elaborates, "For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity dwells in bodily form. And you have been made complete in Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority." Here, the fullness of the Deity in Christ signifies that Jesus is fully God, possessing all divine attributes, and believers are made complete through their union with Him.

Fullness of Time

The concept of "fullness" also relates to the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Galatians 4:4 states, "But when the fullness of time had come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law." This verse indicates that God's timing is perfect, and the coming of Christ was the culmination of His divine plan for salvation.

Fullness of the Holy Spirit

Believers are called to experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 5:18 exhorts, "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit." The fullness of the Spirit involves living under the Spirit's influence, resulting in a life that reflects God's character and purposes.

Fullness of Joy and Grace

The fullness of joy and grace is another aspect of biblical fullness. John 1:16 declares, "From His fullness we have all received grace upon grace." This verse underscores the abundant grace available to believers through Christ, leading to a life of joy and spiritual richness.

Eschatological Fullness

In eschatological terms, fullness points to the ultimate completion of God's kingdom. Ephesians 1:10 speaks of God's plan "to bring all things in heaven and on earth together in Christ." This future fullness will be realized when Christ returns, and God's purposes are fully accomplished.

Conclusion

The biblical concept of fullness is rich and multifaceted, encompassing God's complete provision, the totality of His presence in Christ, and the abundance of His grace and truth. It calls believers to live in the reality of God's complete work in Christ and to anticipate the ultimate fulfillment of His redemptive plan.