Made Visible - Colossians - Part 38

"He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 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. And 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, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell," - Colossians 1:15-19 ESV

In verse 16 we have our uniquely used word. It is visible (horatos - Strong's G3707) that verse also has a similar word translated invisible (aoratos - Strongs G517) which is used 5x's in the New Testament.

Jesus made the invisible God visible. He breaks the third wall. Like a character speaking to the audience in a play.

"But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you." - Luke 11:20 ESV

Jesus wasn't created first (some mistranslate verse 15 and say that.) He Is first and always will be. He makes God visible. He did it historically and He Is doing it personally in life after life.

He opens the eyes of the blind.

Here is another amazing passage that reinforces some of the principles we see in this part of Colossians.

"Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high," - Hebrews 1:1-3 ESV

It is my conviction that all of creation is God's artwork to showcase redemption. Jesus is the focal point that holds it all together in the same way that a main character holds the plotline together of a literary work of art.

The incarnation was the purpose of creation. Jesus made the angelic contest visible. He brings to light unseen forces and dynamics.

"For we walk by faith, not by sight." - 2 Corinthians 5:7 ESV

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." - Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV

When Jesus is in view life makes sense. To the unbeliever, that sounds foolish but to those who believe the invisible is made visible.

God speaks to us using the Bible because of the work and workings of His Son. He can speak to You today. He can illuminate your world if you let Him. Believe in Jesus and God will heal your blindness. Trust in Him and see the hope that is only visible to those who believe.

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