Christ, the Perfect Image
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.
Colossians 1:15 (CSB)
The apostle Paul aims to provide a theological revelation of who Christ is as he writes the opening part of the letter. In verse 15, Paul mentions the image of Christ and teaches about the incarnation and Christ's status. When we consider the perfect image of Christ, we gain a deeper understanding of who Christ truly is.
Christ is the Image of the Invisible God. Paul describes Christ as “the image of the invisible God,” emphasizing the significance of the incarnation—God with us, who came to dwell among humanity. Unlike the internal image of God within people, Christ is the perfect manifestation of God. He is the ultimate revelation because He is truly God, embodying the perfect image of both nature and being.
The perfection of Christ is evident in His time on earth as He walked and ministered among people. He never sinned, fully fulfilling the Father's will and flawlessly completing His mission. He engaged with people perfectly and remained sinless even in moments of anger. This perfect nature made Him the blameless, unblemished, and spotless Lamb of God that was needed.
Christ is the Firstborn Over All Creation. Paul states that Christ is “the firstborn over all creation.” This phrase must be understood carefully. Paul does not mean that Christ was the first being created or that He was created at all. Instead, he uses this wording to show that Christ is the agent through whom all things were created. It emphasizes Christ’s eternal nature—past, present, and future. His authority is rooted in this eternal role in creation. The term also echoes Psalm references where David speaks of the firstborn of God ruling on the eternal throne. This connection affirms Christ’s lordship and highlights Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises.
The Gospel of John opens with wording that supports Paul’s declaration of Christ as the firstborn. John penned,
John 1:1-3 - In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 All things were created through him, and apart from him not one thing was created that has been created.
QUESTIONS
When we consider Jesus as the firstborn of all creation, how can we find hope?
How does the truth of the eternal nature of Christ provid encouragement for the hope that is before us in Christ?
