Meaning
Preeminent has many definitions, but its usage in the Bible usually connotes a person or thing that stands out from the rest. The Greek word for preeminent is “prostateuo,” which according to both Thayer’s Greek Lexicon and Strong’s Dictionary translates to “to stand out, to be conspicuous, preeminent.” As an adjective, preeminent can mean “most distinguished, above all others, excellent, surpassing, supreme.”[1] In the Bible, it is typically used to describe those people and things to which the highest amount of honor and respect are given.
Throughout the Bible, preeminence is given to God. In both the Old and New Testament, God is understood to be preeminent in both his power and his love. In Isaiah 46:9-10, we read, “for I am God and there is no other, I am God and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying my counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.” The Book of Revelation 4:11 says, “Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they exist and were created.” Jesus often speaks of God’s preeminence in the Gospels, in which he reminds his disciples that God is the ultimate authority.
Preeminent in the New Testament
In the New Testament, Jesus speaks of a kingdom that is preeminent. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus proclaims, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Jesus claims a higher power over all things, making himself and his Father the preeminent rulers of the Kingdom of God. Jesus further states in Matthew chapter 6, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This is a reminder for Christians to put God’s kingdom first in their lives, instead of seeking worldly things. Such an emphasis on the preeminence of God in Christian life is effectively demonstrated in Jesus’ parables, particularly in the parable of the sower (Matthew 13).
Preeminent in the Old Testament
In the Old Testament, preeminence is given to God’s chosen people, the Israelites. In the book of Exodus, for example, God proclaims to Moses and the people of Israel, “I will take you to be my people, and I will be your God.” [2] As God is the preeminent ruler of the nation of Israel, the Israelites are to put their trust in him as their leader and protector. This notion of preeminence is reaffirmed in Deuteronomy 6:5, “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.”
The concept of preeminence is also found in the structure of the Israelite kingdom. In 1 Samuel 8, we find that the Israelites wish to have a king like those of other nations, and God grants them their wish. God is the King of kings, and therefore puts a limit on the power that leaders of Israelite kingdom possess. [3] The preeminent role of God is stated in 1 Samuel 8:7, “They said to Samuel, ‘No! but we are determined to have a king over us, so that we may be like any other nation and that our king may govern us and fight our battles.’”
Preeminent in Contemporary Christianity
Preeminence of God is still maintained in the contemporary Christianity. In both Protestant and Catholic traditions, God’s preeminence can be found in the doctrines of faith and in the understanding of fundamental values and beliefs. In the Protestant tradition, the concept of sola scriptura emphasizes that the Bible is the ultimate source of authority and that God is to be given preeminence in all matters of faith. In Catholicism, the preeminence of God is upholded through the doctrine of the Incarnation, in which the act of the Word of God taking human form is seen as preeminent.
Importance of Preeminence in Christianity
The importance of preeminence in Christianity lies in the belief that God is the supreme ruler and should be held as such. This is relevant in that it reminds believers that no one or nothing is higher than God. God is the ultimate authority and should be given the highest amount of respect and honor. This is part of the core beliefs of Christianity and serves as an important reminder that preeminence is to be given to God, not to any earthly power.
Teachings of Preeminence
The Bible provides a wealth of instruction on preeminence. It not only teaches that no individual should be idolized, but also that God is the ultimate authority and should be held in higher esteem than anything else. This can be seen in the teachings of Jesus, who repeatedly emphasizes God’s preeminence in his ministry. For example, Jesus’ instruction to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind” (Matthew 22:37) is an example of Jesus teaching on the preeminence of God.
Conclusion
The concept of preeminence is central to Christianity and is seen throughout the Bible, from the Old Testament to the New. Preeminence is seen in God’s highest authority, in the teachings of Jesus, in the structure of the Kingdom of Israel, and in the doctrines of contemporary Christian faith. Preeminence is an important aspect of the Bible and a reminder that God should have the highest place in our hearts and minds.
Revelations
In the Bible, the Book of Revelations speaks of preeminence in a spiritual sense. It states that preeminent kings and rulers will be judged by God as they are held to a higher standard than the average person. The book of Revelation also emphasizes the need for Christians to remain vigilant and faithful to God, as he will come to reward the faithful and punish the wicked.
Holiness
The concept of holiness is closely related to the concept of preeminence in the Bible. The Bible teaches that holiness is a result of living a life in submission to God and being obedient to his will and commands. Preeminence and holiness are seen as going hand-in-hand and are presented as a way for believers to demonstrate their faith and commitment to God.
Liturgy
In Christianity, the concept of preeminence is often seen in the liturgy of the church. The liturgy is often filled with references to God’s preeminence in the world and his sovereignty over all. Liturgies often call upon God’s preeminence in praise and glory, noting his power and greatness.
Worship
For Christians, preeminence is closely tied to the idea of worship. The Bible teaches that God is preeminent and should be worshipped as such. Worship of God is seen as a way to demonstrate faith and acknowledge that God is the ultimate authority. Worship is an important part of praising and honoring God and expressing gratitude for the blessings he has bestowed upon us.
