Monday, September 14, 2009
Who Is This Jesus?
(Colossians 1:14-19)
At the time of his writing to the Colossians, Paul had not yet visited their church. He had heard of the work of one of his converts, Epaphras, who had founded the church (1:7). He had also heard that heresy had arisen concerning the person and work of Christ. Mark this carefully: every cult and theological error may be traced to an unbiblical interpretation of the person or work of Christ.
Just who is this Jesus whom Paul preached? Paul left no possible doubt with the Colossian believers. 1:14-19 contain Paul’s Christology in miniature, a sure antidote to those whose view of Christ was weak or misconstrued. First, Paul states that Christian redemption and forgiveness of sins originate with Christ’s shed blood (14). Jesus, however, was not merely a human being who died for an ideal. Rather, He is the very “image of the invisible God.” If you want an icon for God, look at Jesus! If you want to know what God looks like, look no further than Jesus (15). Jesus Himself affirmed, “He that hath seen me hath seen the Father” (John 14:9).
If that’s not enough proof of Jesus deity, consider verse 16. Not only is Jesus the very image of God, but He is also the creator of all things. Note, Jesus was not created; He is the Creator! Who else is Jesus? He’s the sustainer of creation (17), the head of the church (18), the preeminent One (18), and the One in whom all the “fullness” of God dwells (19). Jesus—our Redeemer, our Sacrifice, our Savior—is our God!
