The Preeminence of Jesus Christ

Colossians 1:14-18 - “In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 

[15] Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 

[16] For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 

[17] And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 

[18] And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

Apostle Paul wrote Colossians during his initial imprisonment in Rome in response to hearing about their struggles with a Christological heresy. Epaphras, the church leader in Colossae and a convert of Paul’s from his more than two-year ministry, provided the report. 

Epaphras had traveled to Rome to support Paul during his imprisonment and to share concerns about the false teachings that the Colossians were being exposed to. In response, Paul sent a letter to the Colossians, along with letters to Philemon and the Ephesians, with Tychicus, whom Onesimus accompanied.

The church at Colossae faced a severe threat from false teachers who sought to undermine the essential belief in the divinity of Jesus. Despite not having visited the church, Paul directly confronted these challenges. He emphasized the non-negotiable nature of Jesus Christ as both the Creator and the Redeemer.

In this book, Paul uses powerful language to depict Jesus, emphasizing his supreme status and all-encompassing sufficiency. He portrays Jesus as the focal point of the universe, not only as the active Creator but also as the recipient of creation through his human incarnation. Jesus is presented as the visible representation of the invisible God, embodying the fullness of divinity within himself. 

Due to his divine nature, Jesus holds supreme authority bestowed upon him by the Father. He also serves as the Head of the church. Through his sacrificial death on the cross, he has reconciled all things to himself, granting believers a renewed relationship with God and guiding them toward righteous living. This accurate portrayal of Christ is the remedy for the Colossian heresy and forms a foundational element of Christian life and doctrine, both in the past and today.

Our perspective on Jesus Christ profoundly impacts every aspect of our lives. While some may prioritize practical guidance over topics like doctrine and theology, the apostle Paul recognized the practical significance of Christological issues. As believers, our union with Christ calls us to die to sin and live a life motivated by Christian love, all while submitting to Jesus as our Lord.

Throughout the letter, Paul redirects Christians’ often-distracted focus back to Christ. Knowing and focusing on Christ builds a strong defense and forms a strategic offense against enemies inside and outside the church. As clearly as any book of the Bible, Colossians rivets us on who Christ is and what he has accomplished—the very motivation and power believers need to live by faith, walk in obedience, and glorify God.

Are you following after Jesus as you should? Our faith in Jesus Christ should transform the relationships we have in every area of our lives—in our homes, our churches, and our world.

Our Prayer for today:

Thank You, Heavenly Father, for sending Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, in the flesh to experience Your personal touch and to enjoy Your divine presence in the midst of wickedness and hopelessness. He is the Bright and Morning Star Who has given us the glorious hope to overcome every difficulties that come our way. Help us not to miss and enjoy His abiding presence and remain faithful until our faith turns to sight. In Jesus Name, Amen!