What does it mean that Jesus is the image of the invisible God?

The statement that Jesus is the "image of the invisible God" is a profound and deeply theological assertion found in the New Testament. Specifically, this phrase is derived from Colossians 1:15, where the Apostle Paul writes, "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation." To understand the full depth of this statement, it is crucial to explore the theological, Christological, and practical implications of what it means for Jesus to be the image of the invisible God.

First, let us consider the concept of "image" in the biblical context. The Greek word used here is "eikōn," which can be translated as "image" or "likeness." This term carries with it the idea of representation and manifestation. In the Old Testament, humanity is said to be created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This means that human beings reflect certain attributes of God, such as rationality, morality, and relationality. However, this image is marred by sin and does not fully encapsulate the essence of God.

In contrast, Jesus as the image of the invisible God is a perfect and complete representation. He is not merely a reflection or a shadow but the exact imprint of God's nature. Hebrews 1:3 states, "The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word." Here, the author of Hebrews emphasizes that Jesus is the precise and full manifestation of God's essence and character. This is not to say that Jesus is a created being; rather, He is eternally begotten of the Father, sharing the same divine nature.

The invisibility of God is a recurring theme in Scripture. God is spirit (John 4:24) and, as such, is not visible to human eyes. In the Old Testament, no one could see God and live (Exodus 33:20). Yet, in the incarnation of Jesus Christ, the invisible God becomes visible. John 1:18 declares, "No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known." Jesus, therefore, is the revelation of God in a form that humans can perceive and relate to.

Furthermore, Jesus being the image of the invisible God has significant Christological implications. It affirms the full divinity and humanity of Jesus. In His divinity, He perfectly reveals the nature and character of God. In His humanity, He makes this revelation accessible to us. This dual nature is essential for understanding the person and work of Christ. As fully God, He has the authority and power to save. As fully man, He can represent humanity and bear our sins.

The title "firstborn over all creation" in Colossians 1:15 should not be misunderstood as implying that Jesus is a created being. The term "firstborn" (Greek: "prototokos") here signifies preeminence and supremacy rather than temporal origin. It denotes His priority in rank and honor over all creation. This is further clarified in the subsequent verses, where Paul explains that all things were created through Him and for Him (Colossians 1:16). Jesus is the agent of creation and its ultimate purpose.

This understanding of Jesus as the image of the invisible God also carries profound practical implications for believers. It means that in Jesus, we see the clearest and fullest revelation of who God is. When we look at Jesus, we see God's love, compassion, holiness, and justice. Jesus' life and teachings provide the ultimate example of how we are to live in relationship with God and others.

Moreover, this truth calls us to worship and adore Jesus as God. Recognizing Jesus as the image of the invisible God compels us to respond in faith, obedience, and devotion. It also assures us of God's nearness and accessibility. In Jesus, God has drawn near to us, entering into our human experience and providing a way for us to be reconciled to Him.

In addition, this Christological truth has implications for our understanding of the mission of the Church. As followers of Jesus, we are called to reflect His image in the world. While we cannot perfectly represent God as Jesus does, we are called to grow in Christlikeness and embody His love and truth in our interactions with others. This is part of our sanctification process, where the Holy Spirit works in us to conform us to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29).

The early Church Fathers also spoke eloquently about this concept. For instance, St. Athanasius in his work "On the Incarnation" emphasizes that Jesus, being the Word of God, is the perfect image of the Father. He writes, "For He was made man that we might be made God; and He manifested Himself by a body that we might receive the idea of the unseen Father; and He endured the insolence of men that we might inherit immortality." Athanasius highlights that through the incarnation, Jesus reveals the Father and provides a way for humanity to participate in the divine life.

In summary, the statement that Jesus is the image of the invisible God encapsulates the heart of Christian theology. It affirms Jesus' divinity and humanity, His role in creation and redemption, and His perfect revelation of God's character. It calls us to worship, follow, and be transformed by Him. In Jesus, the invisible God becomes visible, accessible, and intimately involved in our lives. This truth is central to our faith and has far-reaching implications for how we understand God, ourselves, and our mission in the world.