Christ's Preeminence: A Devotional on Colossians 1:1-2:23
November 20
Scripture: Colossians 1:1-2:23 (NIV)
In Colossians 1:1-2:23, the apostle Paul writes to the church in Colossae to emphasize the supremacy of Christ and to address various theological and practical issues facing the believers. He presents Christ as the central figure in creation, redemption, and the Christian life, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to live in accordance with the truth of the gospel.
One important verse from this passage is:
Colossians 1:15-17 (NIV):
"The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.
For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.
He is before all things, and in him all things hold together."
This verse highlights the preeminence of Christ as the image of the invisible God and the creator and sustainer of all things. It underscores the centrality of Christ in the universe and affirms His sovereignty over all creation. As believers, we are called to acknowledge Christ's lordship over every aspect of our lives and to recognize His authority in all things.
In Colossians 1:1-2:23, Paul addresses several key themes, including:
The Supremacy of Christ: Paul emphasizes Christ's preeminence in creation, redemption, and the Christian life. He presents Christ as the head of the church and the source of all wisdom and knowledge, urging believers to submit to His authority and to live in accordance with His will.
The Mystery of the Gospel: Paul reveals the mystery of the gospel, which is Christ in us, the hope of glory. He explains the role of the gospel in bringing salvation to all people and calls believers to proclaim Christ boldly to the world.
Spiritual Growth and Maturity: Paul encourages believers to continue growing in their knowledge of God and to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord. He exhorts them to put off the old self and to put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.
Warning Against False Teaching: Paul warns believers against being deceived by empty philosophies and human traditions that are contrary to the gospel of Christ. He urges them to hold fast to the truth of the gospel and to beware of anything that would lead them astray.
As we reflect on Colossians 1:1-2:23, let us consider how this passage applies to our lives today. Let us acknowledge Christ's preeminence in all things and submit to His lordship in every area of our lives. May we continue growing in our knowledge of God and walking in a manner worthy of the gospel. And let us remain steadfast in our faith, holding fast to the truth of the gospel and guarding against false teaching.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who is the image of the invisible God and the creator and sustainer of all things.
Help us, Lord, to acknowledge Christ's preeminence in our lives and to submit to His authority in all things. Grant us wisdom and discernment to discern truth from error, and empower us to walk in a manner worthy of the gospel.
May we continue growing in our knowledge of You and living in accordance with Your will.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
