Valuing Christ is a central theme in Christian theology, emphasizing the supreme worth and preeminence of Jesus Christ in the life of a believer. This concept is rooted in the understanding of Christ's divine nature, His redemptive work, and His role as the ultimate revelation of God to humanity.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible presents Christ as the ultimate treasure, surpassing all earthly possessions and desires. In Philippians 3:8, the Apostle Paul expresses this sentiment: "More than that, I count all things as loss compared to the surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ." This passage highlights the believer's call to prioritize Christ above all else, recognizing His incomparable value.

In Matthew 13:44-46, Jesus Himself illustrates the kingdom of heaven's worth through parables: "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and in his joy, he went and sold all he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. When he found one very precious pearl, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it." These parables underscore the idea that Christ and His kingdom are worth any sacrifice.

Christ's Supremacy

The supremacy of Christ is a recurring theme in the New Testament. Colossians 1:15-20 describes Christ as "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." This passage affirms Christ's divine authority and His role as the sustainer of all creation, further emphasizing His unparalleled worth.

Hebrews 1:3 declares, "The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature, upholding all things by His powerful word." This verse highlights Christ's divine nature and His role in revealing God to humanity, reinforcing the call to value Him above all.

Practical Implications

Valuing Christ involves a transformation of priorities and affections. Believers are called to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33), placing Christ at the center of their lives. This entails a willingness to forsake worldly pursuits and desires in favor of a deeper relationship with Him.

The Apostle Paul exemplifies this mindset in Galatians 2:20: "I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." Here, Paul articulates the believer's identity in Christ, emphasizing a life lived in faith and devotion to Him.

Eternal Perspective

Valuing Christ also involves an eternal perspective, recognizing that earthly treasures are temporary, while the riches found in Christ are eternal. In 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, Paul writes, "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." This perspective encourages believers to invest in their relationship with Christ, knowing that it holds eternal significance.

Conclusion

Valuing Christ is a foundational aspect of the Christian faith, calling believers to recognize His supreme worth and to live in a manner that reflects His preeminence. Through Scripture, believers are reminded of the incomparable treasure found in Christ, urging them to prioritize Him above all else and to live with an eternal perspective.