“And He is the head of the body, the church.” (Colossians 1:18)
A church is a group of Christians who gather regularly. Usually, they will have some appointed leaders or elders. Some church denominations also have leadership structures beyond the local level, such as the pope in the Roman Catholic church. But today’s text makes one thing abundantly clear: Jesus Christ is the ultimate head of the worldwide church. Any human leadership structure must contribute to His glory and every person with authority must exercise this authority as a servant of Christ.
In the church of Corinth, some church members especially appreciated Paul’s preaching. Others preferred his co-worker Apollos or the apostle Peter. But Paul clearly tells them, “No more boasting about human leaders!” It’s all about Jesus Christ as the only foundation and head of the church.
As our head, Jesus leads us and cares for us. We must submit ourselves to Him. As parts of His “body”, we all have a task in His Kingdom. Some are preachers, others especially care for the poor or visit elderly church members. Some are in a position of authority, others are not. But we are all members of the one “body”, of which Jesus Christ is the head!
All glory to Him!