ultimate rule

For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. Colossians 1:16

Jesus is Creator, Controller, and King. Paul’s great sermon in Colossians one — the pre-eminence of Christ — is firm on these facts. Everything that exists, both physical and spiritual, was made through Him and is for His purposes. Nothing in the entire universe is outside of Him. It all bows to Christ’s control and pales in the magnificence of His glory! Everything that is seen and unseen submits to only one authority: Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords!

Paul specifically focuses on authority in this verse. Jesus has all authority in heaven and earth just as He claimed in His last words to His disciples at His ascension (Matthew 28:18). Paul uses four words to express the complete nature of the authority of Jesus Christ:

1. Thrones — All earthly kingdoms, countries, and kindreds belong to Jesus. No human outranks Him.
2. Dominions — no realm of rule encircles Jesus. His empire universally surrounds everything that is.
3. Rulers — a term referring to spiritual forces. No angel or demon has more spiritual power. All submit to His power.
4. Authorities — a term for any human power and influence. Jesus’ jurisdiction supercedes all man made institutions.

O Lord over all, we submit only to You! Rule over us! Lead us in this present age! Bring Your Kingdom rule to bear in Your people. Break Satan’s principality apart! Show us the folly of human politics, positions, and purposes. Bring kings on their knees before you, judges into Your justice, lawmakers under Your law, and armies under Your command. Come quickly Lord Jesus so that Your Kingdom rule comes, Your Kingly will is done on earth as in heaven.

Amen