In our previous articles, we have been exploring the profound truth that life is found in Jesus, as Paul outlines in Colossians 1:15-20. We first examined how Jesus is the divine source of life and then considered His sustaining power that holds everything together. Today, we will uncover the third aspect of the life of Jesus which we need to survive. We must recognize that Jesus is not merely a distant figure in history but the living head of His church.
3. We Live Through His Empowering Life
“And he is the head of the body, the church.” Colossians 1:18a
The beginning of verse 18 tells us that Jesus is “the head of the body, the church.” To understand this relationship, we can look at the human body. Our bodies are composed of many interconnected parts—bones, muscles, organs, and nerves—all working together. The head, however, is unique. It leads and controls the rest of the body.
Paul uses this analogy to describe the relationship between Jesus and the church. The church receives its life and direction from Jesus. Just as the head is essential for the body’s function and life, Jesus is essential for the church. He is the one who conceived the church, decided its purpose, and empowers it to fulfill its mission. It is not up to us to decide what the church should be and do; our role is to conform to His vision.
Survival
The head sustains the body. A body can survive the loss of some parts but not the loss of its head. Similarly, a church without Jesus at the center ceases to be a church. Any part of a church that does not draw its life from Jesus will inevitably fall apart. Our identity is entirely wrapped up in Him.
No pastor, leader, team, or group can take the place of Jesus as the head of the church. Christ alone empowers the body. While we are certainly grateful when Jesus supplies His church with healthy leaders, we do not ultimately depend on human leaders to sustain the church. Jesus is the empowering force, ensuring that the church moves forward with power and purpose.
Confidence in Christ
If Jesus is the head of the church, we can have full confidence that He will build His church and that the gates of hell will not prevail against it. Our calling is to remain connected to Him. In doing so, we will one day marvel at all He has accomplished through His church.
As we continue to explore the life found in Jesus, we see that He is not only the divine source and sustainer of life but also the one who empowers us. Our entire existence and identity as the church are centered on Him. By staying connected to Jesus, we find the strength and direction to move forward, confident in His leadership and purpose.
To read Life In Jesus (Pt. 3), CLICK HERE
