Colossians 1:15-20 | Ten Looks at Christ

 

Ten Looks At Christ : A Journey Through Colossians 1:15-20

Welcome to City on a Hill! Today, we delve into the profound truths of Colossians 1:15-20, exploring the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ. This passage offers ten distinct looks at Jesus, each revealing a unique aspect of His divine nature and work. Whether you're seeking answers about faith, looking for lessons from the Bible, or simply wanting to grow in your spiritual journey, this summary will guide you through the key points of the sermon.

Who is Jesus According to Colossians 1:15-20?

1. Jesus Shows Us God

Paul begins by stating that Jesus is the image of the invisible God. This means that to know Jesus is to know God. Jesus perfectly represents God’s nature and character, making the invisible God visible to us.

2. Jesus is Over All Things

Jesus is described as the firstborn of all creation, signifying His supreme status and authority over everything. He is sovereign and in control, ruling over all aspects of the universe.

3. Jesus is the Creator

All things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, were created by Him and for Him. This includes everything from the smallest particle to the largest galaxy, as well as all spiritual beings.

4. Jesus is the Purpose of Creation

Everything was created through Him and for Him. The beauty and complexity of the world point back to Jesus, the ultimate purpose and reason for all creation.

5. Jesus is Self-Sufficient

He is before all things, meaning He existed before anything else and is independent of His creation. Jesus does not need anything from us, yet He chooses to relate to us out of His abundant love.

6. Jesus Holds Everything Together

In Him, all things hold together. Jesus is not only the creator but also the sustainer of the universe. He ensures that everything continues to exist and function according to His will.

7. Jesus is the Head of the Church

He is the head of the body, the church. As the source of life and growth for His people, Jesus nourishes and unites the church, guiding it towards spiritual maturity.

8. Jesus Defeated Death

He is the firstborn from the dead, indicating His victory over death through His resurrection. This assures us that we too will share in His resurrection and eternal life.

9. Jesus is Fully God

In Him, all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell. Jesus is fully divine, possessing all the attributes and power of God. His incarnation was a profound act of love and humility.

10. Jesus Reconciles All Things

Through His blood shed on the cross, Jesus reconciles all things to Himself. He restores broken relationships and brings peace between God and humanity, as well as within creation.

Life Application

As we reflect on these ten looks at Christ, we are challenged to shift our focus from ourselves to Him. This week, consider how you can apply these truths in your daily life:

  • Seek to Know God Through Jesus: Spend time in the Gospels, learning about Jesus’ life and teachings. Reflect on how He reveals God’s character to you.

  • Trust in Jesus’ Sovereignty: When faced with anxiety or uncertainty, remember that Jesus is in control. Surrender your worries to Him and trust in His plan.

  • Recognize Jesus in Creation: Take moments to appreciate the beauty of the world around you. Let it remind you of Jesus, the Creator and Sustainer of all things.

  • Depend on Jesus for Growth: Engage in spiritual disciplines like prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. These practices help you stay connected to Jesus, the source of your spiritual life.

  • Celebrate Jesus’ Victory Over Death: Live with the hope and assurance that Jesus has conquered death. Let this truth give you courage and comfort in times of suffering or loss.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does knowing that Jesus is the image of the invisible God change your perception of God?

  • In what areas of your life do you need to trust Jesus’ sovereignty more?

  • How can you make a habit of recognizing Jesus in the world around you?

  • What steps can you take to stay connected to Jesus, the head of the church?

  • How does Jesus’ victory over death influence your daily life and outlook on the future?

For every look at yourself, take ten looks at Christ. This resolution will guide you through the new year and beyond, ensuring that your focus remains on the One who is supreme and sufficient in all things. As you look to Jesus, may you experience the transformation, peace, and joy that only He can provide.