#focr 46

[focr]

The Sign of Jonah | Reformed Bible Studies & Devotionals at Ligonier.org

Ligonier Ministries, founded by R.C. Sproul, exists to proclaim, teach, and defend the holiness of God in all its fullness to as many people

The Sign of Jonah | Ligonier Ministries

[focr]

[focr]

The word firstborn may seem confusing.

The word firstborn may seem confusing. It does not imply that Christ was created (as in the doctrine of the Jehovah’s Witnesses). Instead, the term firstborn refers to a position of authority. To be “firstborn” was to hold an honored position. Paul immediately goes on to explain Jesus’ role in creation: “For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him” (Colossians 1:16). This means that Jesus is not created but is Creator. He is God. Paul goes on to say, “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 the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy” (Colossians 1:17–18). Paul highlights multiple areas in which Christ has authority—over creation, over the Church, over death, and finally “in everything.” Christ is both before all things and encompasses all things (“in Him all things hold together”). Therefore, Christ is supreme. This doctrine is essential to our view of and worship of Christ. The supremacy of Christ affirms that Jesus is fully God. He is not simply a man greater than the rest but is truly above all creation, as only God can be. This truth is essential for our salvation. God is infinite and, therefore, our sin against Him is an infinite offense. In order to atone for this offense, the sacrifice must be infinite. Jesus, as God, is infinite and thus an able sacrifice.

~ GotQuestions

[focr]

Why is Jesus called the Firstborn?

This video exposits on the proper meaning of why Jesus is called the Firstborn of all creation & Firstborn of the dead and refuting the claim that Jesus was a created being.

[focr]

Reasoning from the Scriptures with the Jehovah's Witnesses

Christians have great news to offer Jehovah's Witnesses and Ron Rhodes helps readers delve into the Bible and use practical tools to share God's truths with those who come calling.

Convenient side-by-side comparisons of the New World Translation and the Bible, along with answers to each doctrinal error espoused by the Witnesses

Point-by-point lists of the favorite tactics and arguments used by the Witnesses—along with effective, biblical responses to each

Questions you can ask to challenge the Jehovah's Witnesses' confidence in the Watchtower Society

With easy-to-understand helps concise information, direct comparisons of beliefs, and a compassionate presentation, this resource from Ron Rhodes is ideal for personal and church libraries and for any reader who wants to confidently share the gospel.

[focr]

Paul defines Jesus as “firstborn” by saying he is the Creator of the universe, the Sustainer of the universe, the Head of the Church, and the Risen Lord, so that he can be chief over all things. This entire passage points only to the position definition! Since Jesus is “firstborn” in a positional sense, this verse may not be used as a text in support of the view that Jesus was created.

Bethinking.org

[focr]

Why is Jesus called the Firstborn?

This video exposits on the proper meaning of why Jesus is called the Firstborn of all creation & Firstborn of the dead and refuting the claim that Jesus was a created being.

[focr]

H.B. Charles Jr. | The Supremacy of Jesus Christ | Colossians 1:15-20