Teaching Tuesday: Easter 2025 - The Ragman

Series: Dying Breaths
Sermon: "Who do you say I am?" (4.20.25)
Watch the messages HERE. 

"He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation..."

In Colossians 1:15–23, the apostle Paul presents one of the most powerful descriptions of Jesus Christ in all of Scripture. These verses serve as a foundational passage for understanding the identity and mission of Christ, both in creation and redemption. As we reflect on this passage, we’re invited to see Jesus not just as Savior, but as the supreme, preeminent Lord over all things.

Christ is the Image of God (v. 15–17)
Jesus is described as “the image of the invisible God.” He is not merely a reflection of God—He is the visible expression of the invisible Creator. To see Jesus is to see God. This means that Christ reveals the character, will, and nature of God in a way that is personal and tangible.

Paul continues by declaring that Jesus is “the firstborn over all creation.” This isn’t suggesting he was created, but rather that he holds the place of highest honor and authority over creation. He is the source, the sustainer, and the goal of all things. “All things were created through him and for him” (v.16). Every molecule in the universe finds its purpose in him.

Christ is the Head of the Church (v. 18)
Not only is Jesus Lord of creation, but he is also the head of the church—his body. He leads, nourishes, and directs his people. He is the firstborn from the dead, pointing to his resurrection as the first of many who will follow him into eternal life. His victory over death confirms his supremacy in both the old creation and the new.

The Fullness of God and the Work of Reconciliation (v. 19–20)
Paul tells us that “in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell.” Jesus is not a partial revelation of God—he is fully God. And through his blood shed on the cross he accomplished something profound: reconciliation. He made peace between a holy God and a rebellious world. Not just humanity, but “all things” are being reconciled—pointing to a cosmic restoration of creation itself.

From Alienation to Reconciliation (v. 21–23)
These verses shift the focus to us. We were once alienated, hostile to goodness, and engaged in evil deeds. But Christ stepped in. He didn’t wait for us to clean ourselves up—he came while we were still far off and brought us near by his grace. The Ragman exchanged our dirty rags for his clean linens. Now, we stand holy and blameless before God, not because of what we’ve done, but because of what Jesus has done for us.

Paul urges us to continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel. The Christian life is not just a moment of belief but a lifetime of holding fast to the one who holds everything together.

That’s what the resurrection is about. Our God became dirty so we could become clean. He died so we can experience life forever. And he was raised from the dead - he lives! - so we can know him and make him known.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing God to us and for reconciling us to him through your cross and your empty tomb. Help us never lose sight of your supremacy, and may our lives reflect the peace, hope, and holiness you have brought us into. Amen.
TO KNOW HIM AND TO MAKE HIM KNOWN!

- Pastor Brady