Jesus as the image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15-17)
Discover the powerful meaning of Colossians 1:15-17, where Jesus is revealed as the image of the invisible God, the Creator, and the sustainer of all things. Learn key moral lessons about faith, purpose, and trusting in Christ’s supremacy.
Jesus as the Image of the Invisible God (Colossians 1:15-17) & Moral Lessons
Colossians 1:15-17 (NIV):
This passage from Colossians reveals profound truths about Jesus Christ’s divine nature, His role in creation, and His supreme authority over all things. It teaches us that Jesus is not just a prophet or a great teacher but God Himself made visible.
Understanding Colossians 1:15-17
1. Jesus is the Image of the Invisible God (Colossians 1:15)
- "The Son is the image of the invisible God."
- This means that Jesus perfectly reveals God to humanity.
- Since God is spirit and unseen (John 4:24), Jesus came to make Him known in a way that we can understand.
- John 14:9 – “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.”
- Hebrews 1:3 – “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.”
- Moral Lesson: If we want to know who God is, we must look at Jesus—His life, teachings, love, and sacrifice.
2. Jesus as the Firstborn Over All Creation (Colossians 1:15b)
- The term “firstborn” does NOT mean that Jesus was created, but rather that He has preeminence, authority, and supremacy over all creation.
- In biblical culture, the firstborn had special rights and inheritance.
- Psalm 89:27 calls King David the firstborn, even though he was the youngest son, showing that firstborn means position, not birth order.
- John 1:1-3 – Jesus existed before creation and was active in making all things.
- Moral Lesson: Jesus rules over all creation, and we should submit to His lordship in our lives.
3. Jesus is the Creator of All Things (Colossians 1:16)
- "For in Him all things were created... all things have been created through Him and for Him."
- This clearly shows that Jesus is not part of creation but the Creator.
- Everything in the universe—both visible (humans, animals, nature) and invisible (angels, spiritual realms)—was made through Jesus and exists for Him.
- Moral Lesson: Since Jesus created us for Him, our purpose is to honor, serve, and glorify Him.
4. Jesus is Before All Things and Holds Everything Together (Colossians 1:17)
- "He is before all things, and in him all things hold together."
- Jesus existed before time began—He is eternal.
- Not only did He create everything, but He also sustains all things. The universe continues to function because of His power and authority.
- Hebrews 1:3 – "The Son sustains all things by His powerful word."
- Moral Lesson: Jesus holds our lives, our families, and the world together. Even when life feels chaotic, we can trust Him to sustain us.
Moral Lessons from Colossians 1:15-17
1. Jesus is the True Representation of God – Follow Him
- If Jesus is the image of the invisible God, then to know God, we must study Jesus' life and teachings.
- Lesson: Follow Jesus' example of love, humility, and obedience to God.
2. Jesus is Supreme Over All Creation – Submit to His Authority
- Jesus is King over all things, not just in heaven but on earth.
- Lesson: Obey His commandments and recognize that He is Lord over our lives.
3. We Were Created for Jesus – Live with Purpose
- Everything was made for Jesus, including us.
- Lesson: Instead of living for money, fame, or personal desires, live for Christ and His kingdom.
4. Jesus Holds Everything Together – Trust Him in Difficult Times
- When life feels overwhelming, we can trust that Jesus is in control.
- Lesson: Do not fear the future—Jesus is holding your life together, even when things seem uncertain.
5. Honor Jesus as the Creator – Worship Him
- Since Jesus is our Creator, we should worship Him with reverence.
- Lesson: Spend time in prayer, worship, and thanksgiving, acknowledging His greatness.
6. Jesus Sustains All Things – Rely on Him for Strength
- Just as He sustains the universe, Jesus also sustains our faith.
- Lesson: When facing challenges, lean on Jesus for guidance, wisdom, and strength.
Conclusion
Colossians 1:15-17 reveals Jesus as the visible image of the invisible God, the supreme authority over all creation, the Creator of everything, and the One who sustains the universe. This passage reminds us that Jesus is not just a historical figure but God Himself, and He deserves our worship, obedience, and trust.
By understanding who Jesus truly is, we can live with greater faith, purpose, and confidence in His power.