The term “preeminence” holds deep spiritual significance in the Bible. It is a word often used to describe a position of supreme authority, prominence, or uniqueness. In the context of biblical teachings, preeminence goes beyond mere human supremacy or dominance—it embodies the divine order, God’s authority, and the rightful exaltation of Jesus Christ above all creation. This article delves into the biblical meaning of preeminence, its theological relevance, and its practical application in our lives today.
Let’s journey together into Scripture to uncover the rich layers of meaning behind this profound concept. By the end of this article, you’ll not only understand what “preeminence” means in the Bible but also how it applies to your faith and your relationship with God.
What Does “Preeminence” Mean?
The word “preeminence” is derived from the Latin word praeeminentia, which means “surpassing others” or “being supreme.” In biblical usage, it means to hold the highest position or rank, surpassing all others in importance or authority. Preeminence is not merely about being “first among equals” but signifies being utterly unique, supreme, and without rival.
In the Greek New Testament, the term translated as “preeminence” is the word proteuo, which means “to be first” or “to have the first place.” This word appears explicitly in Colossians 1:18, one of the key verses we’ll explore later.
Biblical Examples of Preeminence
The concept of preeminence appears throughout the Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, God asserts His supremacy over creation, His people, and the unfolding of history. Let’s explore some key examples where preeminence is emphasized.
1. God’s Preeminence in Creation
The Bible begins with a declaration of God’s sovereign authority over all things:
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1, ESV).
Here, God’s preeminence is established as the Creator of the universe. He exists eternally and independently, needing nothing but bringing everything into existence by His word (John 1:1-3). The creation account magnifies His unmatched authority, wisdom, and power.
Psalm 8:1 further highlights this truth:
“O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens.”
This psalm reminds us that God is preeminent—the heavens and earth are His handiwork, reflecting His unparalleled greatness.
2. The Preeminence of Jesus Christ
The clearest reference to preeminence in the Bible is found in Colossians 1:15-18:
“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, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through Him and for Him. And 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.” (ESV)
This passage declares Jesus Christ as the ultimate representation of preeminence. Let’s break it down:
- He is the “image of the invisible God”: Jesus reveals the nature and character of God to humanity. His divinity and perfect reflection of God’s glory affirm His preeminence.
- The “firstborn of all creation”: This phrase doesn’t mean Jesus was created; rather, it signifies His rank and authority over all creation. He holds the highest position.
- “All things were created through Him and for Him”: The universe exists for Christ. He is the purpose of creation and its sustainer, holding it together by His power.
- “Firstborn from the dead”: Through His resurrection, Jesus conquered sin and death, becoming the first to be raised to eternal life, thereby securing our salvation.
- “That in everything He might be preeminent”: This is the heart of the passage. Jesus must hold the highest place in everything—our worship, priorities, and lives.
3. God’s Preeminence Over Nations
Throughout the Old Testament, God demonstrates His preeminence over all nations and human rulers. For example, in Exodus, God displayed His supremacy over Egypt through the plagues, proving that He alone is God:
“For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night, and I will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and on all the gods of Egypt, I will execute judgments: I am the Lord.” (Exodus 12:12, ESV)
Similarly, Isaiah 40:15 declares:
“Behold, the nations are like a drop from a bucket, and are accounted as the dust on the scales; behold, He takes up the coastlands like fine dust.”
No matter how powerful a nation or ruler may seem, they are nothing compared to the preeminence of God, who reigns over history and eternity.
4. The Preeminence of Love
Interestingly, 1 Corinthians 13 highlights the preeminence of love within the Christian life:
“So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13, ESV)
Paul teaches that love is the highest virtue, reflecting the nature of God Himself (1 John 4:8). While spiritual gifts and accomplishments are important, they pale in comparison to the eternal value of love.
Understanding Preeminence in Different Contexts
Let’s explore how the concept of preeminence manifests in three key areas:
1. Preeminence in Worship
To acknowledge God’s preeminence means to place Him first in our worship. Exodus 20:3 commands:
“You shall have no other gods before me.”
True worship flows from recognizing that God alone deserves the highest place in our hearts. It involves prioritizing Him above all else—our careers, relationships, and possessions. Jesus reaffirmed this truth when He taught that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30).
2. Preeminence in the Church
Jesus is not just preeminent in creation—He is also preeminent in the church:
“And He is the head of the body, the church” (Colossians 1:18, ESV).
As the Head of the church, Christ holds absolute authority. The church exists to glorify Him, spread His gospel, and serve as His hands and feet in the world. Every ministry, decision, and action within the church must be rooted in Christ’s lordship.
3. Preeminence in Our Lives
Practically, living in the light of God’s preeminence means surrendering every area of our lives to Him. Proverbs 3:6 encourages us to:
“In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”
This involves trusting God’s wisdom above our own, seeking His will in prayer, and obeying His commands. When we recognize Jesus as preeminent, we align our lives with His purpose and experience His peace and direction.
Lessons We Learn From God’s Preeminence
Understanding the biblical meaning of preeminence teaches us several important lessons:
1. God Is Supreme and Sovereign
God’s preeminence assures us that He is in control of all things. No situation, problem, or enemy can thwart His plans. This truth provides comfort and confidence, especially in challenging times.
2. Jesus Is Worthy of Everything
Recognizing Christ’s preeminence compels us to give Him our undivided devotion. He deserves our time, talents, finances, and all of our lives. As Revelation 5:12 declares:
“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!”
3. We Are Called to Humility
Preeminence belongs to God alone. Acknowledging His supremacy keeps us humble, reminding us that we are not the center of the universe. James 4:10 encourages:
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.”
Conclusion
The biblical meaning of preeminence is central to the Christian faith. It highlights the supremacy of God as Creator, the exaltation of Christ as Lord over all, and the call for believers to submit their lives to His authority. In every sphere—worship, church, and daily living—we are challenged to honor His preeminence.
To live in the light of God’s preeminence means to acknowledge His rightful place as number one in our lives. It involves surrendering our will, trusting His plans, and exalting His name above all else. As we align ourselves with this truth, we experience God’s power, presence, and purpose in a deeper way.
May the preeminence of Christ be the foundation of your faith and the guiding principle of your life. Remember Colossians 1:18:
“…that in everything He might be preeminent.”