The first place

Friday December 31, 2021

The first place

He is the head of the body, of the assembly..., so that in all things he holds the first place. Colossians 1:18

The absolute preeminence of the Son of God over all things, from before the creation of the world and into eternity, is established in the 1st chapter of the Epistle to the Colossians (read verses 15-20). Just as Jesus made the disciples of Emmaus "burn down" when he revealed himself to them through the Scriptures (Luke 24,27,32), these texts which proclaim his glories also burn our hearts. They reveal the immense place that the Son of God occupies in the thoughts of God the Father and in his plan of reconciliation.

This text is not limited to enumerating the reasons for the sovereign superiority of the Son of God ; he reveals its purpose: so that in all things he holds the first place. This first chapter of the Epistle to the Colossians thus shows that the supremacy of the Son of God is linked to the events which preceded creation ; to those who relate to it ; and also to the new creation, that of men whom he redeemed, raised up in him and made one body. By virtue of and accomplishing the Son of God is in his eternal relationship with God, he is established above all things forever.

This present position of Christ is a source of deep joy for the Christian. It is also an encouragement for his faith and a reason for worship. But also, Jesus, established by God as the first, must have the first place today in the Church of which he is the head. Indeed, God has decreed that he would be the first in everything.

When we come together among redeemed to worship, we remember with gratitude what Jesus was for his Father, always in joy before him (Proverbs 8,30) ; we evoke his work in creation, then that for our salvation. His birth in Bethlehem, his ministry of grace, his death and his resurrection are the objects of our thoughts. The humiliation of the manger and the shame of the cross heighten the glory of his love. In Him all is beauty, all is perfection; this is the substance of our worship. Jesus, then, has the first place. It is our joy to recognize her.

Source (Pleasing the Lord)