" Preeminent in ALL Things "

 

Colossians 1:15-19  "WHO (JESUS) is the image of the invisible GOD, the firstborn of every creature: 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: and HE is before all things, and by HIM all things consist. 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. For it pleased the FATHER that in HIM should all fulness dwell."

     Today's text clearly expresses the deity of JESUS CHRIST, a doctrine taught throughout the Scriptures. Paul declares JESUS to be "the image of the invisible GOD" and "the firstborn of every creature" (v.15). JESUS CHRIST created all things, whether in Heaven or on Earth, whether visible or invisible, including "thrones," "dominions," "principalities," and "powers"; the all-inclusive work of HIS creatorship is plainly and forcefully set forth when the WORD of GOD declares. "All things were created by HIM, and for HIM" (v.16). JESUS CHRIST's deity is further verified by the grand testimony that "HE is before all things, and by HIM all things consist" (v.17).

     Today, many claim to be "Christians" despite the fact that they deny or doubt the deity of CHRIST. Some "Christian" leaders have tried to downgrade the importance of this doctrine, but the Bible teaches that those who do not believe that JESUS is the GOD-man have the "spirit of antichrist" (1st.John 4:1-3 pictured above). True believers affirm and proclaim that JESUS is GOD manifest in the flesh WHO humbled HIMSELF to be our SAVIOR (Philippians 2:5-11 pictured below).

     Our text also presents a second wonderful truth coupled with CHRIST's deity: HE is the head of the church (v.18). The combination of these two important doctrines results in a statement that every believer should make the top priority in life -- "that in all things HE might have the preeminence." Certainly that is the position JESUS deserves, but is that the position HE has in our life today ? Think about how much time we spend seeking to please ourselves or other people, yet how much time and effort do we devote in seeking to please the ONE WHO should have primacy in all things ? MHR

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

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