He [Jesus] is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.
Colossians 1:18b (ESV)
Jesus is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead. There are two thoughts that could be expressed here. The word translated as beginning means “a commencement, or chief in order, time, place, or rank.” So, it can refer both to first in regard to time or first in rank. And firstborn carries the same two meanings. First in time or first in position.
Time-wise, Jesus was the first to rise from the dead. Others had been restored to life. But Jesus’ resurrection was fundamentally different. His resurrection was to an imperishable, glorious, powerful, spiritual body (1 Cor. 15:42-44). And he was the first of many more that will follow (1 Jn. 3:2).
But more significantly, he is the first in rank or priority. He is over all those who will follow him in his resurrection. While we will be like him, he will be preeminent.
But Jesus’ preeminence extends beyond the resurrection life. Jesus is:
- The image of the invisible God (Col. 1:15).
- The firstborn (preeminent) of creation (Col. 1:15).
- The creator of all things (Col. 1:16).
- Before all things (Col. 1:17).
- The sustainer of all things (Col. 1:17).
- The head of the body, the church (Col. 1:18).
- The firstborn of the dead (Col. 1:18).
- One who contains all the fullness of God (Col. 1:19).
- The means of reconciling all things to God (Col. 1:20).
We are often guilty of taking pride in buildings, significant leaders, or personal accomplishments. However, none of these should detract from the preeminence of Jesus. He is above all things. He is the one we should take pride in. And he alone is worthy of all praise and glory.
