Preeminent

Colossians 1:15-23

Preeminent is defined as “highly distinguished or outstanding” – standing out among all others because of superiority. It seems as if Jesus is given this title by virtue of “all things being created through Him and for Him.” (v.16) In Him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell and sinful mankind is reconciled or brought into right relationship with God the Father through faith in Him. Christ’s substitutionary death on the cross paid the full penalty for the sin of all who would repent and believe and made reconciliation with the Father possible and actual. When we are reconciled, we will persevere in faith and obedience because, in addition to being declared righteous by Jesus’ finished work, we are actually made new creations (2 Cor. 5:17) with a new disposition that loves God, hates sin, desires obedience, pursues holiness, and is energized by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. So I must ask, are we growing in these things? 


Questions for further thought:
1. After reading this passage, how has my perception of Jesus changed? 

2. Am I pursuing happiness or am I pursuing righteousness? Which do I think God would want me to pursue?


Challenge: Ask God to provide opportunities for you to share the message of salvation in Jesus Christ this week and beyond. Be prepared as God works.