A Bible Study through Colossians
Colossians 1:15–20 (KJV)
15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
16 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:
17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.
18 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.
19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;
20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.
1. CHRIST IS PREEMINENT
Colossians does not begin by telling us what we must do for Christ. It begins by showing us who Christ is. Before Paul speaks about Christian living, he establishes the supremacy of Jesus.
Christ is not simply part of our faith. He is the centre of it. He is Creator, Sustainer, Head of the Church, and Lord over all things. When Christ is given His rightful place, everything else begins to fall into its proper place.
Study Insight
The word “preeminence” means first place, supremacy, or having the highest position. Paul is showing us that Jesus is not merely important—He is above all things. Everything was created by Him and for Him, and everything ultimately finds its purpose in Him.
What This Means for Us
When Christ has first place in our lives, our priorities begin to change. We learn to measure our decisions, our relationships, our work, and our future by His Word. Preeminence is not simply something we believe about Jesus; it is something we live out by giving Him first place every day.
Life Application
Ask yourself: Does Jesus truly have first place in my life? Are my decisions shaped by His Word, or by my circumstances, fears, and desires? Today, intentionally place Christ at the centre of one area of your life and trust Him to lead you.
Reflection Questions
1. What does it mean to you that Christ is above all things?
2. Is there an area of your life where you need to give Christ first place?
3. What is one practical decision you can make today that reflects Christ’s preeminence?
Prayer
Father, thank You for reminding me that Christ is above all things. Help me to give Him first place in every area of my life. Shape my decisions, priorities, relationships, and desires according to Your Word. Teach me to trust You, follow You, and live each day with Christ at the centre. In Jesus’ name, Amen.