JESUS ABOVE ALL The Supremacy of Christ Matthew 16:13-17 Colossians 1:15-20 Jesus Over Creation Hebrews 1:3a - Firstborn = prototokos What does this show us about Jesus? - Jesus is the direct manifestation of God, and nobody comes before Him. Colossians 1:16 - You were created for Christ! What does this show us about Jesus? - Jesus is the author of creation. Jesus is the object of our pursuits. Colossians 1:17 - Jesus is the Sustainer What does this show us about Jesus? - Even in the worst of times, Jesus is still in control and sustaining not just ourselves but all things around us. Colossians 1:18-20 Jesus over His Church Colossians 1:18 Jesus is the leader of His Church. What makes Jesus the head of the church? What does this show us about Jesus? - Not only does Jesus have positional authority over creation, but also over His church. Colossians 1:19 Fullness = Pleroma - Even Super Abundance What does this show us about Jesus? - Jesus and God are two distinct persons yet one. No one can follow God and reject Jesus. Colossians 1:20 - Reconciliation is the mission of Jesus What did Jesus do to reconcile us? What does this tell us about Jesus? - It is only through the work of Jesus that we have an opportunity to be brought back into relationship with God. Next Step: - Be reconciled to God through the shed blood of Jesus.