Christ is Supreme

Christ is Supreme Colossians 1:15–23 Introduction • He teaches Christ as over all (primary theme). • He corrects errors about Jesus. • He is concerned they will be deceived. Jesus is supreme over creation (15–17) 1. Because he is divine (15a) • “Visible expression… (Jn 1:18; 14:9; 1 Jn 5:20) • …of the God we cannot see” (Ex 32; Heb 11:27; 1 Tim 1:17) 2. Because he is exalted (15b) • “firstborn” often refers to rank or position (Gen 27:37) • “firstborn” is a specific messianic title (Ps 89:27) Jesus is supreme over creation (15–17) 3. Because he created it all (16) • He is the agent of creation (Jn 1:3). • He is the goal of creation (1 Pt 3:22; Phil 2:9–11). 4. Because he sustains it all (17) • He is pre-existent and independent. • He upholds the universe (Heb 1:3). Jesus is supreme over redemption (18– 20) 1. Because he is over the redeemed ones (18a) • “Head”: organic life source • He controls “his church” (1:24; 2:19; 3:15) 2. Because he founded the redeemed ones (18b) • “beginning”: the originator or founder • Initiates Christian resurrection (1 Cor 15:20) Jesus is supreme over redemption (18– 20) 3. Because he is the divine reconciler (19–20) • All that is true of the fullness of the Father is true of Jesus • Only the wronged party can reconcile “to himself” • By his lifeblood (20b–22a) • For a purpose: present you holy and blameless Biblical Appeal: Continue in the faith (21–23) • Be willing to suffer for Jesus (1:24ff) • Hold fast to him and be nourished by Him (2:19ff) • Enjoy the internal, ruling peace of Christ (3:15)