Lecture Notes on Jesus Christ in Colossians Chapter 1

Key Themes

• Jesus Christ's Dual Nature: Fully man and fully God.
• Central Text: Colossians Chapter 1.
• Speaker: Apostle Paul.

Main Realities About Jesus Christ

1. Jesus is God

   • Colossians 1:15 - "Image of the invisible God," "Firstborn of all creation."
   • "Image" translates to "icon"; Jesus is the exact representation of the Father.
   • "Firstborn" signifies rank/status, not chronological birth.

2. Jesus is the Creator

   • Colossians 1:16 - "By him all things were created."
   • Encompasses all creation in heaven and on earth.

3. Jesus is the Sustainer

   • Colossians 1:17 - "In him all things hold together."
   • Sustains everything: gravity, life, and existence.

4. Jesus is Lord

   • Colossians 1:18 - "Head of the body, the church."
   • First place in everything; controls and directs the church.
   • Should be first in all aspects of life: family, work, church, etc.

5. Jesus is the Savior

   • Colossians 1:19-20 - "Reconcile all things to himself."
   • Salvation through His blood; substitutionary sacrifice.
   • Exclusivity: No other means of reconciliation to the Father.

The Need for a Savior

• Human Separation from God

  • Colossians 1:21 - Alienation due to sin; originally separated in Eden.
  • Separation likened to God "hiding his face" (Ezekiel 39:24).
  • Anthropomorphic language used to explain spiritual truths.

• Nature of Separation

  • Willful and deserving of wrath.
  • God’s mercy and grace manifested in Jesus.

Conclusion

• Summary of Jesus' Roles
  • Jesus Christ as God, Creator, Sustainer, Lord, and Savior.
  • Essential for reconciliation with the Father; sole means of salvation.