That You May Believe - Study Guide

Week 18 - May 2nd, 2021

Colossians 1:16

16 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.

Context: Paul writes to believers in Colossae warning them to avoid false teachings that result in diminishing Jesus Christ. Throughout this book Paul reminds the believers of the preeminence of Jesus. Paul writes to confront their false view of Jesus with the truth.

Meaning: Paul emphasizes that Jesus Christ is the creator and the source of all that exists. As the Creator, Jesus has authority over everything in creation. Any human teaching or philosophy that does not recognize the supremacy of Christ and His authority over His creation must be rejected.

Life Application: The very first thing that Paul corrects for this church is their understanding of Jesus. This point is worth noting—when we get Jesus right, other important truths begin to fall into place. When we get Jesus wrong, we set ourselves up for deception in other areas. The more we focus on The Truth—Jesus—the more we will discover all truth.

For Further Study: This verse is part of a passage that makes up an early statement of faith confessed by the Church. Read Colossians 1:15-20. How do these verses impact the way you understand verse 16? What do these verses teach us about the power and authority of Jesus?