The Centrality of Christ

Christ Above All: A Reflection on Colossians 1:18–23

In a world filled with competing priorities and shifting values, the Apostle Paul gives us a powerful reminder in Colossians 1:18–23: Christ is supreme, and He alone is the center of everything—creation, the Church, and our personal reconciliation with God.

The Supremacy of Christ (v. 18)

"And He is the head of the body, the Church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything He might be preeminent." (v. 18)

Jesus is not just a wise teacher or a moral example—He is preeminent, meaning He is first in rank, authority, and honor. Paul uses rich imagery: Christ is the head of the Church, giving it life and direction. He is the firstborn from the dead, not only the first to rise in a glorified body but also the guarantee of our future resurrection. Everything about His resurrection screams victory, authority, and hope.

The Fullness of God (v. 19)

"For in Him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell..."

This verse affirms the deity of Christ. Jesus isn’t partly divine—all the fullness of God dwells in Him. This isn’t just theological trivia; it means that when we look at Jesus, we see the exact image of God. There is no part of God’s nature, character, or glory that is absent in Christ.

Reconciliation Through the Cross (v. 20–22)

"...and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things... making peace by the blood of His cross."

"And you, who once were alienated... He has now reconciled in His body of flesh by His death..."

The message here is nothing short of miraculous. God, through Christ, is reconciling all things—both in heaven and on earth. This includes us, who were once alienated and hostile in mind, estranged from God by sin. But through Jesus' death on the cross, we are reconciled, made at peace, and even presented holy and blameless before Him. That’s not something we earn; it’s a gift of grace.

Hold Fast to the Gospel (v. 23)

"...if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel..."

Paul ends this section with a call to perseverance. The Gospel isn’t just the doorway into the Christian life—it’s the firm foundation on which we stand. We must not shift from this hope, no matter what pressures come. In a culture that tempts us to add, subtract, or move away from the simplicity of Christ’s finished work, we’re reminded: don’t move. Stay grounded.

Final Thoughts

Colossians 1:18–23 is a call to re-center our hearts on Christ. He is the Head, the Source, the Reconciler, and the Hope of our lives. If we lose sight of His preeminence, we lose the heartbeat of the Christian faith. But if we hold fast to Him, we are anchored in a hope that will never fail.

So today, let’s ask: Is Christ truly preeminent in my life? Not just in word, but in how I live, how I love, and what I trust?

Always be sure dear friends to check everything according to the scriptures, be sure to visit us in person for much more.  Join us in spreading the Gospel, the greatest call on our lives is to know the Lord and to see others come to Him too!

Until we meet again, lets go serve our King!

FRF Family