By Bible Names of God

      "And He is...the first-born from the dead; that in all things He might have the pre-eminence." Colossians 1:18

      Here we have the origin of Christ's headship. "He is the first fruits of them that sleep," or "have fallen asleep." He is the Originator of spiritual life, "The Beginning of the new creation of God." He died and was among the dead. Through death, He paid the penalty for sin and was raised for our justification "from among the dead." Others were translated or were raised but died again. He rose to die no more. This resurrection guarantees His headship and insures the resurrection of all believers. He has the pre-eminence in all things.

      Our Lord Jesus, we glorify Thy name as the First-Born from the Dead and look forward to the day when we also shall be raised and, with glorified bodies, abide with Thee forever. Amen.