Preeminence
Definition and Biblical Usage
The word "preeminence" appears in Scripture to describe a position of supreme rank or superiority. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew term mothar conveys the idea of "what is over and above" or "excellence." In the New Testament, the Greek words proteuo ("to be first") and philoproteuon ("loving to be first") carry the concept into discussions about Christ's lordship and human ambition.
The Preacher in Ecclesiastes uses the term to reflect on human limitations, observing that humanity has no preeminence over the animals when it comes to mortality (Ecclesiastes 3:19). Both share the same breath, the same dust, and the same fate of death — a sobering reminder of human frailty apart from God.
Christ's Supreme Preeminence
The most theologically significant use of "preeminence" appears in Paul's letter to the Colossians: "that in all things He might have the preeminence" (Colossians 1:18). This declaration comes within the magnificent Christological hymn of Colossians 1:15-20, where Paul affirms that Christ is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation, and the one through whom and for whom all things were created.
Christ's preeminence is not partial or limited to one sphere. Paul emphasizes "in all things" — creation, redemption, the church, and the cosmic order. As the head of the body (the church) and the firstborn from the dead, Jesus holds unchallenged supremacy. This was not a position He seized but one that belongs to Him by nature and by the Father's will, for "it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell" (Colossians 1:19).
The Danger of Seeking Preeminence
In sharp contrast to Christ's rightful preeminence stands the negative example of Diotrephes, whom the apostle John describes as one "who loves to have the preeminence" among the believers (3 John 1:9). Diotrephes refused to receive the apostle's authority, spread malicious words against church leaders, and expelled those who welcomed traveling missionaries.
This example illustrates a recurring biblical warning: when human beings grasp for preeminence that belongs to God alone, it leads to division, pride, and the abuse of authority. Jesus Himself taught that greatness in His kingdom comes through service, not domination (Mark 10:42-45).
Preeminence and Humility
The biblical teaching on preeminence creates a paradox at the heart of Christian faith. The one who truly deserves all preeminence — Christ — humbled Himself to the point of death on a cross (Philippians 2:5-8). Meanwhile, those who grasp for preeminence, like Diotrephes, reveal a heart opposed to the gospel's values.
Paul's exhortation in Philippians 2:3 captures this principle: "Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself." True Christian leadership acknowledges Christ's preeminence and finds its expression in humble service rather than self-promotion.
Cosmic Scope of Christ's Supremacy
The preeminence of Christ extends beyond the church to encompass all of reality. In Ephesians 1:20-22, Paul describes how God raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at His right hand, "far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named." This cosmic preeminence assures believers that no force in the universe stands outside Christ's authority, providing the foundation for Christian hope and confidence in every circumstance.
Biblical Context
Preeminence appears in Ecclesiastes 3:19 regarding humanity's lack of superiority over animals in mortality, in Colossians 1:18 as part of the great Christological hymn declaring Christ's supremacy over all things, and in 3 John 1:9 as a warning against Diotrephes who loved to have the preeminence in the church. The concept connects to broader themes of Christ's lordship throughout Paul's epistles.
Theological Significance
The concept of preeminence teaches that supreme authority belongs to Christ alone. His preeminence over creation, the church, and all spiritual powers is central to Christian theology. The contrast between Christ's rightful preeminence and Diotrephes' self-seeking preeminence illustrates the difference between godly authority rooted in sacrificial love and human pride that corrupts community life.
Historical Background
In the Greco-Roman world, social status and preeminence were highly valued. The pursuit of honor and public recognition drove much of civic life. Paul's declaration of Christ's preeminence challenged this cultural framework by asserting that ultimate supremacy belongs not to emperors or social elites but to the crucified and risen Messiah. The early church struggled with members who sought personal preeminence, as evidenced by John's letter about Diotrephes.