“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

The Bible is clear, all things were created by Christ, through Christ, and for Christ.

Everything that has ever existed came into being for Christ— creation points to the supremacy and greatness of Christ.

Nothing in the universe exists for its own sake. Nothing exists independent of Christ.

Everything from the bottom of the ocean to the top of the mountains. The smallest particle to the biggest star. The most disgusting cockroach to the most beautiful human—everything that exists, exists for Christ.

Too often, we trivialize biblical truths like this one. Often we ask, “do you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ?” In reality, everyone and everything that has ever existed has a personal relationship with Jesus—“all things were created by Christ, through Christ, and for Christ.”

The question is not, “do you have a personal relationship with Jesus?” The question is, “what type of relationship do you have with Jesus? Is He King of your heart? Or will He be the Judge of your heart?”

I am afraid most people will only ever know Jesus as Judge. Refusing to acknowledge His supremacy and authority, most people consciously reject the idea of Jesus as Lord.

By word and by deed, they renounce Jesus as King. Those unwilling to acknowledge Jesus as King now will undoubtedly face Him as Judge later.

Today’s Reflection & Action:

Is Jesus your King, or will He be your Judge? Make no mistake, “every knee will bow to Him as Lord... everything that has ever existed will declare Him King” (Phil 2:10-11). You will bow, either because of the mercy and grace He has given you, or because His iron scepter shatters your kneecaps (Psalm 2:9). Either way, everything will bow and declare Him King.

Know Jesus as Lord before He becomes your Judge.

Faithfully,
Pastor Chris

Paper Sunday is blessed to collaborate with Chris Harper on this Advent Devotional Series.

Chris Harper is a speaker, writer, and disciple-maker. Chris is President of 252Edu, a consulting firm based in Dallas, Texas. Chris serves schools, churches, and non-profits by helping them "grow in wisdom, favor and stature with God and man.”

When not taking ground for King Jesus, you can find Chris on the basketball court playing a pick-up game. Chris is a sneakerhead, an avid reader, and loves a good cheeseburger. You can follow him @252consulting on Instagram.