Read John 1:14-18 to deepen your understanding of verse 15a.
1. Read Gen. 27:22-41. Focus on the father’s blessings to his sons. The first blessing is intended for the firstborn. Focus on the word ‘brother(s)’ in this passage. In light of what this passage says about the firstborn what does it mean for Jesus to be the firstborn over all creation?
2. Are even fallen angels included in verse 16 as being created ‘for Him’? Do they bring God glory even in their fallen state? As created beings, we are created to bring him glory. List 3 specific ways that you do this. List 3 specific ways you fail to do this.
3. Ponder the analogy of Christ being the head of the Church. What implications does that have regarding our relationship to Him and to one another?
4. After reading vs 18 and 1 Cor. 15:20-23, do your best in your own words to explain what it means for Christ to be the firstborn from the dead. He indeed deserves first place in everything!
5. Christ is superior to everything. List 5 specific items, people or ideals that you give a much higher place in your life than you ought. What can we do to remind ourselves regularly of the fact that He is really the only important thing in this universe?
6. Notice that at the end of this passage and last weeks passage Paul keeps going back to the atoning work of Christ on the cross. Read Isaiah 53:10-12. What did Christ choose to do when He was on earth with all of His authority as firstborn, creator and sustainer?
