Joseph emphasizes the preeminence of Christ based on Colossians 1:14-19, highlighting that Christ is the creator of all things and the image of the invisible God. He explains that all creation was made by Him and for Him, and that He holds all things together. Joseph discusses the significance of Christ being the beginning and the firstborn from the dead, asserting that He deserves preeminence due to His role in creation and redemption. He reflects on the importance of recognizing Christ's authority in our lives and the church, urging believers to submit to His preeminence by bearing the cross. Joseph warns against being led astray by philosophies, traditions, and worldly influences, emphasizing the need for a personal relationship with Christ. He concludes by encouraging the congregation to see Christ's grandeur and to honor Him as the Lord and King, recognizing the grace of being redeemed and restored to God's original purpose.
14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;
1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
17 (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.
2 Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.