Series: Christ First Week 1: First Place in Everything
Colossians: Paul’s point in this short letter is that it isn’t about you or me
- It was written during one of Paul’s imprisonments.
- Paul had never met the Colossians.
Paul writes this letter (#1) to correct their view of God & (#2) to explain why He is willing to suffer & sacrifice for the gospel & why they should be also.
Build-a-bear theology: assemble the deity that makes you feel good.
So, here is what Paul says in response: Colossians 1:15–20
- Colossians 1:16
- The fact that Jesus created everything that was created means Jesus is uncreated, which means He is God.
- Firstborn (Colossians 1:15) prototokos: preeminent
- (Colossians 1:18) Jesus was also the firstborn from the dead.
We’ll only find fulfillment when we know Him & live out His purposes!
Colossians 1:18-20—the summation of Paul’s teaching:
- Jesus is first
- Jesus went first
- Therefore, We should put Jesus first in our lives.
What is true in their theology should also be true in their lives. “… so that in everything he might have the supremacy.” (Colossians 1:18), Jesus is not someone you put on a list of priorities. He’s in a class by himself. He is why you exist.
Is He important to you, or is He first?
- What gets your first and best?
First place in your heart—your affections
First place in your obedience
First place in your priorities:
- In your time
- In your talents
- In your treasure
JESUS does not deserve your leftovers!
- Am I listening to the Holy Spirit & obeying Him?
Surrender & obedience are what characterized those 1st Christians.
Jesus deserves our first and best.
