Take a moment and think about it: What or who is the driving force in your life? Is it your career? Relationships? Ambitions? For many of us, even good things can take center stage, crowding out what truly matters. The Bible presents a transformative truth — the preeminence of Christ — that shifts our focus and reorients our lives.

The preeminence of Christ isn’t just a lofty theological concept—it’s the bedrock of our faith and the key to unlocking a life of purpose and fulfillment. Yet, many believers struggle to grasp its full implications.

What does it mean for Christ to have preeminence? Why does it matter in today’s chaotic world? Let’s explore what Scripture teaches about Christ’s supremacy, why it is essential, and how embracing this truth can lead to real change in your life.

Understanding the Preeminence of Christ

The preeminence of Christ refers to His supreme authority, unrivaled position, and ultimate importance over all creation. The concept of Christ’s preeminence is woven throughout Scripture. However, one of the most explicit declarations comes from Colossians 1:15-18. In what is often called the “Christ Hymn,” the The Apostle Paul proclaims:

“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth… He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. And He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything He might be preeminent” (Colossians 1:15-18, ESV).

This passage beautifully articulates several key aspects of Christ’s preeminence:

1. Christ as Creator: All things—visible and invisible—were created through Him and for Him (v. 16).
2. Christ as Sustainer: He holds all things together, keeping the universe from unraveling (v. 17).
3. Christ as the Church’s Head: He leads and governs His people (v. 18).
4. Christ as the Resurrected King: His resurrection secures His ultimate authority over life and death (v. 18).

Each of these truths reinforces that Christ deserves first place in every aspect of life.

Why the Preeminence of Christ Matters

Understanding and embracing the preeminence of Christ is crucial for several reasons:

1. It Grounds Our Identity

In a world obsessed with self-definition, understanding Christ’s supremacy clarifies who we are. When Christ is preeminent, our identity is rooted in Him—not in achievements, social status, or fleeting opinions.

Paul reminds us in Galatians 2:20:

“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.”

This means your worth is not tied to performance. You are fully accepted because of Christ’s work, not your own. We’re no longer defined by the world but by our union with Christ.

2. It Centers Our Worship

Modern culture tempts us to worship idols: money, power, relationships, or comfort. But only Christ is worthy of ultimate devotion. Revelation 5:12 captures the worship of heaven:

“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!”

If heaven sings of Christ’s preeminence, shouldn’t we do the same in our daily lives? If Christ is preeminent, our worship must reflect His unmatched worth.

3. It Provides Eternal Perspective

When life feels overwhelming, the preeminence of Christ offers hope. No trial, no failure, no loss escapes His sovereign care. Paul encourages us in Romans 8:28:

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

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How to Live in Light of the Preeminence of Christ

Knowing Christ is preeminent changes everything. Here are actionable steps to align your life with this truth.

1. Prioritize Scripture and Prayer

Christ reveals His preeminence through His Word. Regular Bible reading and prayer help you recalibrate your heart and mind. Start by meditating on passages like Colossians 1 or John 1.

Practical Tip: Dedicate 10 minutes daily to focus on Christ’s supremacy in Scripture. Journal what stands out and how it applies to your life.

2. Seek Christ-Centered Community

Living out the preeminence of Christ isn’t a solo journey. Surround yourself with believers who will challenge and encourage you to keep Christ first.

Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us:

“Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together.”

Practical Tip: Join a small group or Bible study that emphasizes Christ’s centrality.

3. Reevaluate Your Priorities

Take inventory of your time, energy, and finances. Are they aligned with making Christ first?

As Jesus taught in Matthew 6:33:

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

Practical Tip: Write down your weekly activities. Pray for wisdom to adjust anything that crowds out Christ.

4. Proclaim His Supremacy

The preeminence of Christ isn’t just for personal growth—it’s a message to share. Whether through words, acts of service, or your work ethic, demonstrate Christ’s lordship in your life.

Practical Tip: Look for opportunities to share how Christ has transformed your perspective and priorities.

Make the Preeminence of Christ a Daily Reality

The preeminence of Christ isn’t just a theological concept—it’s  a life-changing reality. When we truly grasp and embrace Christ’s supreme position, it transforms every aspect of our existence—from our deepest thoughts to our daily actions, from our personal relationships to our interaction with the world around us. It challenges us to reorient our hearts, recalibrate our priorities, and embrace the life-transforming power of Jesus.

Your Next Steps:

1. Meditate on Colossians 1:15-18 this week. Write down what it reveals about Christ’s supremacy.
2. Identify one area in your life where Christ isn’t first. Surrender it to Him in prayer.
3. Commit to sharing the preeminence of Christ with at least one person this week.

Jesus is worthy of first place in your heart and life. Take steps to live under His lordship. Surrender your priorities, embrace His peace, and pursue His mission. Don’t let the distractions of this world rob you of the joy and purpose found in Christ’s supremacy. Reflect on His preeminence daily, and let Him transform every part of your life. 

Let’s start this journey together, keeping Christ at the center—always.