Continuing through the Colossian hymn, this sermon examines the second stanza of Paul’s declaration of Christ’s supremacy. Having established that Jesus is Lord over all creation, Paul now presents Christ as Lord of the Church and the agent of redemption.
Colossians 1:18–20 defines the church as a body whose head is Christ. The church’s identity is not rooted in its building, programs, or cultural distinctives, but in its Redeemer. Christ alone possesses authority over His church because He purchased her with His blood.
The sermon explores why redemption is necessary: humanity has violated the law of its Creator and stands deserving of wrath. Yet the eternal Son, in taking on human flesh, accomplished reconciliation through His death and resurrection. As the firstborn from the dead, He holds first place in all things.
Paul’s declaration that “all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell” in Christ underscores the full divinity of Jesus. Reconciliation and peace with God are accomplished through Him alone.
The supremacy of Christ demands a response—both individually and corporately. If Jesus is Lord of the Church, then the life and worship of the church must be governed by His Word and directed toward His glory.
