Lesson 4: The Preeminence of Christ
Colossians 1:12-18
Introduction
Last week we mentioned these three verses but did not have time to study them. Tonight, we revisit them because there is much here not only to read, but to take into our hearts.
As we study, we must move beyond simply reading the words and truly grasp what is being said. Verse 12 alone could occupy an entire hour of careful reflection.
Colossians 1:12
Colossians 1:12
"Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light."
Christians have many reasons to give thanks. This verse highlights three:
- Made us meet (qualified us). He made us adequate and sufficient—not worthy in ourselves, but qualified by grace.
- Made us partakers of the inheritance. We are not purchasers but recipients of an unearned gift.
- In light. This stands in contrast to darkness, symbolizing sin and bondage.
Colossians 1:13
Colossians 1:13
"Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son."
God rescued and liberated us from the dominion of darkness. He transferred us from the realm of Satan into the kingdom of Christ.
Colossians 1:14
Colossians 1:14
"In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins."
Redemption means deliverance through the payment of a ransom. Through Christ's blood we have forgiveness of sins—a present possession.
The Preeminence of Christ
Colossians 1:15
Colossians 1:15
"Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature."
Christ is the exact revelation of God. This speaks of His deity and eternal existence.
Colossians 1:16–17
Colossians 1:16–17
"For by him were all things created… and by him all things consist."
All things were created in Him, by Him, and for Him. He existed before creation and sustains the universe in harmony and order.
Colossians 1:18
Colossians 1:18
"And he is the head of the body, the church… that in all things he might have the preeminence."
Christ alone governs the church. He is the source and sovereign head of the new creation. Because of who He is, He must have first place in everything.
Conclusion
If Christ is the Creator, Sustainer, Head of the Church, and Firstborn from the dead, then He must be preeminent—not second, not shared, but first in all things.