Lesson 1: The Preeminence of Christ

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THE TRUTH ABOUT SALVATION II: THE DEATH, BURIAL, AND RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST COURSE DESCRIPTION NOTE TO STUDENTS

In this transformative course, participants will explore the foundational aspects of salvation through the lens of Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. The course is designed to deepen understanding and inspire profound change by examining the preeminence of Christ, the significance of being “born again” through Him, and the power and purpose of His resurrection. There are four themes that are addressed:

• The Preeminence of Christ – Discover why Jesus holds the supreme place in God’s plan for humanity and salvation, laying the groundwork for understanding His authority and role.
• Born Again Jesus – Unpack the mystery of rebirth in Jesus, exploring how His example invites believers to experience a spiritual transformation.
• Christ Died, Rose, and Revived – Delve into the powerful truth of the resurrection, considering its implications for personal faith and the assurance of new life.
• Jesus, the Seed That Was Planted – Reflect on how Jesus’ life and resurrection represent a divine seed planted to bear lasting fruit in the lives of believers. Through interactive sessions and thought-provoking activities, participants will confront perspectives, question mindsets, and address lifestyle choices that may hinder spiritual growth. By the end of the course, a key outcome is for believers to earnestly desire the new birth experience and/or to walk in the power of the resurrected Christ. Welcome to the third course in the Salvation Series.

It is not by chance that God has influenced you to join with many others who are studying about salvation. Therefore, we want you to benefit fully from all He has to offer as you learn from each lesson. To manage all that is required, here are a few tips to consider: Here are some tips for you to consider:

1. Reflect and Journal Regularly.

Set aside time after each lesson to reflect on what you’ve learned. Use a journal to capture your thoughts, questions, and any revelations that arise. Writing down these reflections will help you internalize the teachings and provide a record of your spiritual growth throughout the course.

2. Engage with the Message from our Apostle.

Read the Word from Our Apostle closely and revisit it throughout the course. Pay attention to the misconceptions about salvation that are highlighted, as understanding these will deepen your grasp of each lesson. Let this message serve as a guide to keep you aligned with the course’s goals and expectations.

3. Review Guidelines from Previous Courses.

Reflect on insights and practices introduced in previous courses in this series. Building on what you’ve already learned will provide a strong foundation and help you connect each lesson to a broader understanding of salvation.1

4. Use Feedback Constructively.

Pay close attention to feedback on assignments and activities you may receive. Rather than focusing solely on “right” or “wrong” answers, consider how the feedback can guide your spiritual development, refine your understanding and serve as a tool to encourage growth.

5. Make Time for Deep Study.

Don’t rush through the lessons. Approach each lesson with a willingness to dive deep. Study the Scriptures, and seek to understand not just the words, but their significance for your life and faith.

6. Participate Actively in Interactive Activities.

Wholeheartedly engage in activities designed to shift mindsets, change perspectives, and inspire lifelong transformation. These are intended to help you apply what you are learning practically, so approach them openly and thoughtfully.

7. Seek Clarity on Misconceptions.

Some lessons may challenge existing beliefs or assumptions about salvation. Use this opportunity to ask questions, seek clarity, and explore different perspectives. The course is designed to address common misconceptions, so embrace this as a chance to deepen your understanding.

8. Share and Discuss with Fellow Participants.

If possible, discuss what you are learning with other students. Sharing perspectives and experiences can provide new insights and foster a supportive learning environment, strengthening everyone’s journey.

9. Pray and Meditate on Key Lessons.

Take time to pray over each lesson and seek God’s guidance for how these truths can shape your life. Meditating on core themes, such as being “born again” or walking in the power of Jesus’ resurrection, will help you experience the course’s transformative power.

10. Prepare Your Heart for Transformation.

This course is designed not just for learning concepts and principles but for your life to be transformed. Approach each lesson with an open heart, ready to be shaped by the truth of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to engage fully and meaningfully with the teachings, activities, and reflections in this course.

1 Please review the “Note to Student” section on page 6 of both Introduction to Salvation and Truth About Salvation I: The Plan of Salvation.

A WORD FROM THE APOSTLE

Welcome to the third course in our enlightening series on the truth about salvation, where we turn our focus to the profound mystery and power of Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. It is my prayer that this course will lead each of you into a richer, more transformative understanding of what Jesus accomplished for us and what it means to live in the fullness of His life.

This course has been carefully designed to address some of the misconceptions that can cloud our view of salvation. Many, for instance, believe that Jesus holds a unique position of love from the Father that we could never attain, overlooking that His sacrifice was to make us one with Him in that same love. Others may view the Church as merely an organization, rather than a living, breathing organism empowered by Christ Himself.

These views can limit our understanding and appreciation of our identity and calling as believers, and this course offers insight and clarity that will encourage growth and deeper relationship with God.

Our journey begins with The Preeminence of Christ, where we’ll reflect on His authority and purpose in God’s grand design. Next, in Born Again Jesus, you’ll explore the rebirth He made possible, available for each of us today. Christ Died, Rose, and Revived will delve into the transformative power of the resurrection, calling us to walk in the new life He secured for us. Finally, in Jesus, the Seed That Was Planted, we see how His life was sown for the eternal harvest He desires to bring forth in our lives.

This course is more than information; it is an invitation to transformation. Through interactive discussions and activities, I encourage you to engage deeply, allowing this teaching to reshape your mindset, shift your perspective, and inspire you toward a life that manifests Christ in you. Take the time to study, to seek understanding, and to allow God to answer the questions of your heart. Our prayer is that by the end of this course, each of you will desire a deeper walk in Christ and experience the new birth, or be strengthened in your commitment to live as Jesus did.

May this time of study bring revelation, renewal, and a powerful sense of your purpose in God’s Kingdom.

With blessings, Apostle Mary Banks

OVERVIEW

This lesson explores the preeminence of Christ, emphasizing His life, divine nature, and ministry, which reveal Him as the first Son of God to walk the earth, paving the way for personal salvation, and unveiling the true identity of God’s children.

As you study, your mindsets and beliefs about Jesus’ role in salvation will be confirmed, or reshaped. You will also discover how His divinity, humanity, sacrifice, and resurrection serve as the foundation for understanding what it means to become a child of God.

OBJECTIVES

Explain the meaning of the concept of preeminence of Christ showing how it relates to the term, firstborn. Students should be able to define preeminence and firstborn in relation to Jesus’ identity, authority, and resurrection experience. They also use biblical examples (e.g., John 1:14, Ephesians 1:22-23, Colossians 1:18) to illustrate how these terms are related. Use examples from the Scripture to prove Jesus’ preeminence in all things concerning the Church. Students should be able to use Scripture to show that Jesus is the visible manifestation of God as the firstborn among many brethren. They should affirm that the Church originated with Him (e.g., Colossians 1:15-19; Ephesians 1:22-23). Scriptural truths are also connected to practical, real-life situations that confirm Christ’s ongoing preeminence. Discuss why Jesus’ preeminence matters to believers.

Students should be able to (a) clarify the difference between the terms, believer and unbeliever and (b) reflect on the significance of Jesus’ life from their experiences or from submitting to His authority and role in their salvation.

During this lesson, you should be able to:

OBJECTIVES cont’d Demonstrate practical ways to address misconceptions or doubts about Jesus’ humanity, death, and resurrection. Students should be able to use given scenarios to identify hidden or expressed misconceptions or doubts about Jesus’ identity and the purpose of His death in salvation. They should also apply concepts to given scenarios that convey doubts about Jesus’ identity, death, and resurrection.

PREPARATION ACTIVITYActivity

1.1 Examine the dialogue below and discuss your agreement and/or disagreement with the views shared. Select the lesson objective/s you think will most benefit both persons and give one (1) main reason for your choice.

Dialogue: “What Does It Mean to Be First?”

Jenny: “Being first is everything—whether it’s being the first-born, winning a race, or being the best at work. It’s how you prove to everyone that you’re valuable.”

Alex: “Well, being first also means responsibility and loving those you lead. It’s not just about standing out—it’s about setting an example and helping others along the way. Just look at Jesus’ life, Sis!”

Jenny: “What about His life? I don’t believe the example you are using is relevant to our conversation!”

Alex: “Oh my! Where should I begin?”

Agreement/Disagreement with Views:

Objective(s) Chosen & Reason for Choice:

FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURE ON THE PREEMINENCE OF CHRIST

There is a profound Scripture about Jesus, the depth of which often goes unnoticed by many within the Body of Christ. Yet, this Scripture conveys key principles and essential truths about His identity, purpose, and role in salvation. It will also deepen our understanding of who Jesus is, how we see our relationship with Him, and our identity as believers.2 These are important reasons why this verse will serve as the foundation for this entire course, guiding us as we explore the significance of the preeminence of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Note that the Scripture explains that Jesus holds preeminence in all things pertaining to the Body of Christ. 3 In this context, “preeminence” means being first—whether in timing, superiority, or influence.4 By reviewing the context of this Scripture, we can begin to understand the full meaning of His preeminence.

This verse of Scripture ends with a colon, signaling that what follows will further explain what was introduced.

The upcoming verses elaborate on two key spiritual principles that are established in verse 15:

1. Jesus is the image of the invisible God (verses 16 and 17).
2. Jesus is the firstborn of every creature (verse 18).

2 Note that though the term believers is often used in reference to those who are born again, there are times when it is applied to those who believe in the Gospel but have not yet received the Holy Spirit. Be sure to check how it is used throughout the lesson.

3 Be careful to discern whether “Body of Christ” refers to the Church (born-again believers) or to the physical body of Jesus that died on the cross, as used in some instances.

4 There are instances in Scripture where the word “preeminence” carries a negative connotation, referring to someone seeking to have the greatest influence over others— such as Diotrephes in 3 John 1:9. It is essential therefore, to consider the context, to discern its meaning.

Colossians 1:18

And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

Colossians 1:15

Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

The word “image” used in verse 15 means visual, or presentation. In other words, Jesus is a visible presentation of God. He allowed what was once invisible to be seen. The Scriptures testify of this, as explained in the Book of John.

John 1:1 indicates that the Word is God, and we know that God is invisible. 5 However, verse 14 reveals that the Word was made flesh and, at that point, was named Jesus.6 In Course 1, we learned that the body (flesh) provides identification for the invisible inward parts of a person. Similarly, when Jesus took on a body, His body provided identification for the invisible God within Him. Thus, Jesus is the image of the invisible God.

JESUS, THE IMAGE OF GOD

5 Though it explicitly says, “the Word was God,” this refers to the fact that the sentence begins with “In the beginning.” At that time, the Word was God.

However, this does not negate the truth that the Word is still God.

6 Matthew 1:18-25 and Luke 1:30-35.

John 1:1-3&14

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

2 The same was in the beginning with God.

3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

...

14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Paul continues to affirm Jesus as God, addressing a concept that many struggle to accept - that an individual who walked in the flesh could be considered God. Nevertheless, Jesus was indeed Emmanuel, God made flesh, and He was the one who created all things, as explained in both Colossians 1:16-17 and John 1:3.

Colossians 1:16-17

16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:

17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

Reflect:

(a) Do you think the disciple, Philip, doubted or was uncertain about what Jesus said in John 14:6-11? Why or why not?
(b) Do you have similar doubts about Jesus? Why or why not?

Activity

1.2

(a) Position regarding Philips’ Doubt/Uncertainty:
(b) Reason/s for doubt or absence of doubt about Jesus:

JESUS, THE FIRSTBORN OF EVERY CREATURE

7 We will further explore the distinction between humanity and the sons of God in the next course, The Truth About Salvation 3 – The Operation of Salvation. In the Bible, the word “creature” is often used to refer to sons of God. This is because those born of God’s Spirit are considered new and entirely different from the natural human beings they were before salvation. While we see all other creatures made in Genesis 1, in Acts 2, on the day of Pentecost, we see the creation of new creatures—called the sons of God.7

Colossians 1:15

Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: Find 2 scripture verses in the New Testament where the sons of God are referred to as creatures.

Activity

1.3a

Scripture 1

Although the sons of God are new creatures, note that Jesus is the firstborn of these creatures.8 Consider how Colossians 1:18 expands on the preeminence of Christ beyond His identity as the firstborn.

Let us engage in the following activity to reflect on the significance of Jesus being the Head of the Body of Christ.

1. Jesus is the Head of the Body of Christ.
2. Jesus is the Beginning (firstborn) of the Church.
3. Jesus is the Firstborn from the Dead.

What is significant about sons of God being called creatures? Activity 1.3b

Colossians 1:18

And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

JESUS, THE HEAD OF THE BODY OF CHRIST

8 We know that when Colossians 1:15 refers to Jesus as the “firstborn of every creature,” it specifically applies to the Church, since the things mentioned in verses 16 and 17 were created, not birthed.

The significance of Jesus being the Head of the Church lies in His authority and leadership in manifesting the will of God on earth and guiding the work of ministry. As the Head, He leads and unites the Church, working through those who are saved to carry out God’s plan of salvation for the world. Jesus is the source of spiritual life for believers, drawing them to God through salvation and nurturing their growth and service (Colossians 1:18).

The Scriptures below show how Jesus is the Head of the Body—the Church. However, they are not aligned with the correct Bible verses. After reading each scripture, match it with its corresponding description by pairing the letter with the relevant number.

Activity

1.4 A.

John 10:27

B.

Ephesians 5:23

Ephesians 5:25-27

As the Head, Jesus exercises full authority over the Church. All decisions, directions, and functions of the Church are under His divine guidance. This ensures that the Church aligns with God’s will, not man’s.

Just as the brain controls the body, ensuring it is appropriately nourished, Jesus is the source of all spiritual nourishment and vitality in the Church. Without Him, the Church cannot grow or thrive spiritually. Christ, as the Head, unifies the members of the Church. Each part functions harmoniously under His leadership, ensuring love and cooperation among believers.

D.

Colossians 2:19

E.

Ephesians 1:22-23

G.

Ephesians 4:15-16

F.

John 15:5

As the head, Jesus gives clear guidance to His followers. The Church moves according to His instructions, fulfilling His mission on earth to preach the gospel and disciple nations.

Jesus’ role as Head reflects His love and care for the Church, just as a husband protects his wife. His leadership includes both spiritual sustenance and protection from error and opposition.

The Church cannot function independently of Christ. His leadership and power are essential for bearing fruit and fulfilling the Church’s mission. As the Head, Jesus continually works by way of the Holy Ghost to ensure the sanctification of the Church, purifying believers and preparing them to be presented as a spotless bride.

The sons of God being called ‘creatures’ signifies their identity as created beings—made new and wholly dependent on God. This description also reflects humility while highlighting their divine nature, ability, and purpose.”

Believers must trust Him to know God and live in love and unity as members of His Body (Ephesians 4:15-16). Jesus exemplifies perfect love and obedience to God, empowering believers to live according to God’s Word. He gave His life so the Church could be established, setting people free from sin and enabling them to walk in righteousness.

9 This is a significant concept. Jesus is literally the prototype for all the other sons of God to follow. The only uniqueness of His sonship lies in the fact that He was the first, He was born of a virgin, He was chosen to die and rise for the sins and life of the world, and He is the Head of the Body—the Church. This concept will be further studied in the following Course, The Truth About Salvation 3 - The Operation of Salvation.

JESUS, THE BEGINNING OF THE CHURCH

Colossians 1:18 states that Jesus is “the beginning,” signifying that He is the firstborn or start of the Church. As the first, Jesus leads a line of sons of God to follow. Just as He is the Son of God, so are believers who receive the Holy Spirit. As stated in 1 John 4:17, “As He is, so are we.” 9

DID YOU KNOW?

People other than Jesus can be born of the Spirit. In John 3:5, Jesus said, “...

Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” 10

JESUS, THE FIRSTBORN FROM THE DEAD

For this theme, we will focus on the meaning of the term, “firstborn from the dead” and its implications for the salvation of humanity. This is because we will be studying in greater depth this aspect of God’s plan of salvation in Lesson 2. It is important however, that we set the foundation for further study in this lesson.

Based on Colossians 1:18, the term “firstborn from the dead” is in reference to Jesus’ resurrection, which signifies His victory over death. This Scripture verse also indicates that just as Jesus rose from the dead, others will also rise. Jesus therefore holds the highest authority in both creation and redemption. His resurrection proves that He is also the forerunner of salvation. To accept this truth is to reject any mindset or belief that God’s love for Jesus is far greater than His love for fallen humanity. We will however delve more deeply into a study of the remarkable truth about His preeminence in relation to death and our salvation.

Below are several phrases that support Jesus as the firstborn of the Church. Find the Scriptures where these phrases are located.

Activity

1.5 First born of every creature First begotten First of many brethren Church of the firstborn

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Jesus is first in everything! He was the first to reveal God’s holy nature and to give His life for anyone to be saved. Through His death and born again experience, the Church is alive today to continue reconciling the lost to the Father.

Knowing that Jesus is in control, gives believers the confidence to follow Him, trust His plan, and live the new life He offers.

Here are some key points from this lesson that you should remember:

• The Meaning Preeminence of Christ: Jesus is first in all things, whether in terms of timing, authority, or influence. He is above all creation and all things exist through Him.
• The Foundational Scripture on Jesus’ preeminence: Colossians 1:18, highlights key reasons for Jesus’ preeminence, (a) His role as Founder and Head of the Church, (b) His victory over death.
• Jesus the Firstborn: The term “firstborn” refers to Jesus’ supremacy and authority, His pioneering role in the resurrection, and His establishment of the Church - the Body of Christ, through His death, burial, and resurrection. As firstborn among many brethren, Jesus made it possible for humanity to inherit eternal life, which is evidence of His victory over death.
• Examples of Jesus’ Preeminence in all things related to the Church. Jesus is the Visible Image of God, because He shows us what God is like in that He has authority over creation. (Colossians 1:15). He is the Firstborn from the dead, the Beginning and Head of the Church (The Body of born again believers).
• Jesus’ Preeminence and Believers: Jesus’ life, death, burial, and resurrection are significant to believers, because by trusting Him for their salvation, they can become new creatures like Him and will be able to live according to God’s plan.

EXTENDED STUDY & LEARNING RESOURCES

Task 1: Examine the conversation Jesus had with Nicodemus (John 3:1-21):

(a) What are misconceptions or doubts Nicodemus had about Jesus?
(b) What does Jesus reveal about His authority over spiritual life and salvation (being born again)?

Task 2: Examine Jesus’ response to the news of Lazarus’ sickness and death (John 11: 1-44.)

(a) How does this scenario convey Jesus’ preeminence?
(b) Who believed what Jesus said about Himself and raising Lazarus from the dead? Support your answer with Scripture.

The self-evaluation serves as a tool for you to examine how you have been applying that which is taught in the lesson for your own life and/or to further probe your knowledge of the lesson. Please answer honestly and thoroughly.

1. How has your understanding of Christ’s preeminence enriched your perspective on His role in salvation and lordship over all things?
2. How does recognizing Jesus as the visible image of God confirm God’s love for fallen humanity?
3. How have you personally dealt with doubts or uncertainties—either your own or those of others—regarding Jesus’ identity, humanity, or role in salvation?

SELF-EVALUATION

BORN AGAIN JESUS

OVERVIEW

In the previous lesson, we discussed the preeminence of Christ and how, according to God’s design, He must be first in all things concerning the Church. In this lesson, we will explore what it means to be “born from the dead.” This means we will examine how Jesus’ resurrection demonstrated His victory over sin and death, and also introduced a new spiritual reality that impacts believers today.

Our study will give us a glimpse into God’s love for us and how He destroyed the plan of the enemy to hinder humanity from being free from sin. In addition, the Scripture will be the Mirror for reflecting on the requirement for salvation and how Christ’s life, death, and resurrection, form the foundation for every believer’s spiritual transformation and new life as a son of God.

OBJECTIVES

Explain the concept of “Begotten from the Dead.” Students should be able to relate the term “begotten from the dead” to Jesus’ resurrection, emphasizing His preeminence as the firstborn from the dead and the giver/ source of eternal life for believers (Colossians 1:18).

Analyze the cost of Jesus’ rebirth. Students should be able to examine the intensity of the suffering Jesus endured for humanity’s sins and use Scripture to show how His resurrection reveals God’s redemptive plan of salvation Explore God’s response to the way Jesus was being treated by the enemy at His crucifixion. Students should be able to dissect Psalm 2 to identify evidence of the depth of God’s love for Jesus and humanity and how His plan of salvation prevailed through Jesus’ resurrection.

During this lesson, you should be able to: