The concept of the "Priority of Christ" refers to the preeminence and supreme authority of Jesus Christ in all aspects of faith, life, and creation. This principle is foundational to Christian theology, emphasizing that Christ holds the highest position in the universe and in the lives of believers.

Biblical Foundation

The priority of Christ is rooted in several key biblical passages. Colossians 1:15-18 declares, "The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him. 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 and firstborn from among the dead, so that in all things He may have preeminence."

This passage underscores Christ's role as the agent of creation and His authority over all created things. It also highlights His leadership of the church and His victory over death, affirming His supremacy in both the physical and spiritual realms.

Christ's Authority and Lordship

The priority of Christ is further emphasized in Philippians 2:9-11 , which states, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

This passage reveals the exaltation of Christ by God the Father, affirming His ultimate authority and lordship over all creation. The universal acknowledgment of Christ's lordship is a testament to His priority in the divine order.

Christ as the Fulfillment of the Law and Prophets

In Matthew 5:17 , Jesus Himself declares, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them." This statement highlights Christ's role as the fulfillment of the Old Testament scriptures, further establishing His priority in God's redemptive plan.

Christ's Role in Salvation

The priority of Christ is central to the doctrine of salvation. Acts 4:12 affirms, "Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." This exclusivity underscores the necessity of Christ for salvation, positioning Him as the sole mediator between God and humanity.

Christ's Preeminence in the Church

Ephesians 1:22-23 states, "And God put everything under His feet and made Him head over everything for the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all." This passage emphasizes Christ's leadership and authority within the church, affirming His priority in guiding and sustaining the community of believers.

Implications for Believers

The priority of Christ has profound implications for the life of a believer. It calls for a life of devotion, obedience, and worship centered on Christ. In Matthew 6:33 , Jesus instructs, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." This directive places Christ and His kingdom as the foremost pursuit in a believer's life, reflecting His priority in all aspects of existence.

Conclusion

The priority of Christ is a central tenet of Christian faith, affirming His supreme authority and preeminence in creation, salvation, and the life of the church. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Christ fulfills the divine plan and calls believers to a life centered on His lordship and kingdom.