02b The NT Firstborn Jan 19 2015

02B Jesus the Firstborn of God Before Creation
Last updated January 2015, thirty seven pages long including fourteen pages of appendixes.
Whether you agree or disagree, in part or in whole, big or small, please email me any feedback to help improve
this study. I would also appreciate any help with its logic, grammar, typos, editing etc.
An In Depth Examination of the Term Firstborn In the New Testament

Introduction
Many people believe that Jesus is the eternal God, some of them believe that a part of God separated or broke
off from Him to become Jesus and yet was still the one God. Many believe Jesus is part of a three person Trinity
where Father, Son and Holy Spirit are all God and yet are not each other. Many have variations of either of these
theories all with the understanding that Jesus is still the eternal God without beginning. Others believe Jesus was
born/created before creation, some of them say he is a god or an angel. Others believe Jesus began his life at
Bethlehem. All of these variations have theologians and scholars who argue they are biblically correct and all
agree that the others cannot also be correct.
Most Bible scholars agree that in biblical understanding, unless the context presents some overriding factor, a
literal application of terms should be anticipated. In this article I will demonstrate that the term firstborn has a
literal meaning in all New Testament instances, and that Jesus was born/created before creation and therefore had
a beginning. This means that Jesus is not God, and because of this the Trinity doctrine, briefly explained earlier, is
therefore a false teaching.
There are eight scriptures in the NT that use the term firstborn in most translations and nine in the KJV. Of these,
eight refer to Jesus, and one to Moses. As in the majority of the OT, all nine NT uses of the term firstborn mean:
First in time and a new birth, created into existence by another being. Having an origin, a beginning, and therefore
a point before it happened. If you have doubts about the definition, see section 02A The Old Testament
Firstborn which clarifies this.
This definition will be proven in each of the parts throughout this document. In order for this definition to be
incorrect firstly it needs to be shown it is incorrect in each part and secondly a new definition has to be shown to
be true and proven from scripture. If you believe Jesus is God, be ready to provide this information.
This evaluation of the eight firstborn scriptures that refer to Jesus is divided into five main sections, in
chronological order. In part one I will examine the idea that Jesus is the firstborn of all creation, which means he
had a beginning of life before creation. In part two, I will then look at Jesus as the firstborn of Mary, followed in
part three where I explore Jesus being the firstborn from among the dead. Next in part four, I will look at Jesus
being the firstborn of many brothers, and finally in part five, I will briefly discuss the Church of the firstborn. In
each part I will always evaluate the idea that Firstborn is figurative/metaphor.
It is amazing that each of the times the word firstborn is used in the NT it supports the other uses, this study is not
just about one passage it is about the all occurrences being linked and joined together as only God could do in his
bible. Once a clear understanding of the term firstborn is established, it will become clear that it is not possible
for Jesus to be the firstborn son of God according to genealogy, birth order, and simultaneously be God.
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When I write, see my section xyz, it refers to additional support I have for a specific topic.
Scriptures are from NIV and ESV, I have also quoted the KJV.
If the reading is a little heavy go to the summary at the end of each part and work back from there, or go to Part
7 Conclusions and Summaries, and work back from that point. Each numbered Part begins in A with the
literal interpretation, and then assesses the figurative or other viewpoint. The appendixes are in place as proof and
support, and to address other viewpoints that oppose my findings.
The bulk of the evidence showing Jesus as a created being is in Part 0A Definitions and Part 1A Jesus the
Firstborn Son of God before Creation Regarding Birth Order. If you believe Jesus is God then focus on showing
me how and where in these two parts I have made a mistake.
Article Contents:
An Examination of the Nine Firstborn Scriptures
Part 0A: Definitions
Part 1A: Jesus the Firstborn Son of God before Creation Regarding Birth Order
Part 1B: Rights of the Firstborn
Part 1C: Is Jesus the Firstborn Son of God with Regard to Rights Only?
Part 1D: Is Jesus the Firstborn Son of God before Creation Figuratively?
Part 2: Jesus the Firstborn Son of Mary at Bethlehem
Part 3A: Jesus the Firstborn from among the Dead
Part 3B Is Firstborn in Colossians 1:18 Figurative?
Part 4A: Jesus the Firstborn of Many Brothers
Part 4B: Is Jesus the Firstborn of Many Brothers Figuratively?
Part 5A: The Church of the Firstborn
Part 5B: Is The Church of the Firstborn Figurative?
Part 6: Moses and the Firstborn
Part 7: Final Conclusions and Summaries
Appendix A: List of Scriptures Used in this Analysis
Appendix B: Other Proto Words Definitions
Appendix C: Definitions from Other Sources
Appendix D: Case Graph and Firstborn Passage Identity
Appendix E: Addressing Other Interpretations of Colossians 1:15
Part 1E: Does Firstborn Figuratively Mean Preeminent or Supreme?
Part 1F: Does Firstborn Figuratively Mean The Heir?
Part 1G: Is Firstborn a Figurative Example from Psalm 89?
Part 1H: Does Firstborn Figuratively Mean Other Terms?
Part 1J: Other Arguments Against a Literal Meaning
Appendix F: Colossians 1:16-17 Dilemmas
Part 1K: Colossians 1:16-17 Dilemmas
Appendix G: Colossians 1:12-20 Overview
Appendix H: Adam, David and Jesus
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Part 0A: Definitions

Understanding the biblical definition of the term firstborn is the key to knowing the meaning of who Jesus truly is
according to scripture, we use scripture to understand scripture. All other ancient texts are not the word of God
and all modern definitions are not always biblical definitions. We want to know what the words meant at the time
of Hebrew OT writing and what they meant at the time of Greek NT writing.
The following OT definition is one that I have formulated for the term firstborn from the Old Testament.
(see my section 02A2 The OT Firstborn)
1/ First in time and a new birth. Created into existence by another being. Having an origin, a beginning, and
therefore a point before it happened.
2/ Figurative
In the OT, there was always a point, or a time, before firstborn. In the ESV OT, of the approx 132 times firstborn
is written, all but six figurative passages refer to birth order. In the cases of it referring to human beings the
birthright/rights was assumed to also be in place, this is a separate word and addressed in the OT study. The use of
firstborn in the OT is the basis of the NT writers understanding.
The OT was canonized, or completed, sometime around 300BC according to historians. The Septuagint, the
Greek version of the Old Testament, was completed sometime between 300-200BC. Therefore the OT that the NT
writers were reading at the time of Christ was either the Hebrew texts or the Greek Septuagint, which is where the
word prototokos is used for the Hebrew term bekor/H1060 which in English is firstborn. This would be where the
NT writers would get their definition and understanding of the term firstborn as we can assume that by the time
they wrote the NT they were experts in OT understanding.
The Greek term firstborn
Firstborn is translated nine times from four fractionally different Greek words. The differences between the words
are found in the last two letters. They all become the Greek lemma (Prototokos), and firstborn in the
ESV. Prototokos is a combination of two Greek words: Protos first; tokos offspring. Prototokos becomes
G4416 in the Greek numbering system from Strongs concordance. In Matthew 1:25 prototokos is in the KJV but
not the ESV or NIV, it is translated as firstborn.
Table 1.( LN = Lou Nida Greek Lexicon)
Matthew 1:25
1
Luke 2:7
1
Romans 8:29
1
Colossians 1:15
2
Colossians 1:18
2
Hebrews 1:6
1
Hebrews 11:28
3
Hebrews 12:23
4
Revelation 1:5
Prototokon
Prototokon
Prototokon
Prototokos
Prototokos
Prototokon
Prototoka
Prototokon
Prototokos
KJV
LN 10.43
LN 10.43
LN 13.79, LN 87.47
LN 10.43
LN 10.43
LN 10.43
LN 10.43
LN 10.43, LN 87.47
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Other NT Definitions of Firstborn

I have explored NT definitions of firstborn according to Strongs Concordance, Zondervan Concordance and the
Louw Nida Greek Lexicon. Unfortunately they all come up short in one way or another and so I have not included
them in the main body of this analysis. They are listed and commented on in Appendix D.
Summary Definition
The definition of the word firstborn in this study will be based on the OT definition stated at the beginning of this
part and proven from scriptures that have the word firstborn in them. I am able to fully prove from those
scriptures that this definition is correct.
The term firstborn by definition means:
First in time and a new birth. Created into existence by another being. Having an origin, a beginning, and
Therefore Jesus cannot be God who none of these definitions could apply to.
If you disagree with this definition see my section 02A The OT Firstborn along with an Excel graph which
analyzes all 130 plus instances of the word firstborn in the OT and from that draws the stated definition.
In order for Jesus to be a firstborn without this definition, firstly this current definition has to be disproved
when applying to Jesus and secondly a new unique definition provided and proven using biblical support. If you
think Jesus is God, you have to be able to do this.
Additionally there is further information in the following appendixes.
Part 1A: Jesus the Firstborn Son of God before Creation

Here I examine in detail the understanding of Christ as the firstborn from a literal viewpoint before the creation.
Jesus was the firstborn son, son born first, of God before creation as a spiritual being. I will examine Colossians
1:15 and then Hebrews 1:6. The figurative possibilities are assessed at in detail in Part 1C-H.
Translation Preferences for Colossians 1:15:
There are four main different translations for the second part of Colossians 1:15. Here I have divided several bible
translations into the four groups to get an overall picture. (Currently the top selling bibles in order are NIV, KJV,
NKJV, ESV, NLT, HCSB, NAS, CEB.) Of these four variations of translation listed below, I prefer "firstborn of "
because of the 132 OT uses of firstborn there are 53 examples with "firstborn of" and yet not one "firstborn
over" example. Additionally because prototokos is written in a way in the Greek writing that indicates it is the
subject of the verb creation, or of creation.
Colossians 1:15 (ESV): He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.
A/ the firstborn of all creation:
Amp, Darby, ASV, DLNT, ESV, GW, NABRE, NASB, NOG, NRSV, RSV, WEB,
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Taken literally Jesus was the one born first and of all that was created, and therefore a part of it.
B/ the firstborn over all creation:
HCSB, ISV, LEB, Moun, NET, NIV, NKJV, TNIV,
Taken literally Jesus was the one born first and has dominance over all creation.
C/ the firstborn of every creature:
AKJV, AV, DR, GNV, Jubilee, KJ21, KJV, WYC,
These translations say that Jesus is a creature, therefore created.
D/ first born of all creation:
YLT
The words first and born are written separately which says that Jesus was born first, therefore created.
Others translations remove the word firstborn: CEB, CJB, ERV, Mes, NCV, NIRV, NLT, NLV, Phil, TLB, WE
Others translations add leading words: CEV, EXB, GNT, Voice,
The Literal Definition of Colossians 1:15
Here we look at and analyze each part of the passage, from group A above, for its literal meaning.
Colossians 1:15 ESV, NASB and others:
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.
Hos esti ekon
aoratos theos prototokos
pas ktisis
Jesus the image of the invisible God
The following biblical definition of the word image" is from an in depth study, 02J Jesus the Image of God:
1/A representation of the form of another thing or being. A likeness, resemblance, a similar copy,
1a/ An inanimate object which has been formed or produced, usually carved or of metal, to resemble and
have the appearance of a person, god or animal. A figure or an effigy
1b/ A being who has been fathered and created by God in his likeness
1c/ A being, a son, who has been fathered and created my his immediate father
In the NT the additional understanding is
2a/ A person who is becoming the image of Christ in Romans 8:29 and 1 Cor 15:49.
3a/ Figurative: Ten times in Revelation in regards to the beast.
Of the 102 times image/images is in the ESV OT, 97 refer to carved, metal, or manmade representations.
Four OT references were to Adam as the image of God
One OT reference was Seth an image of his father Adam.
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A biblical image is not a photograph, a reflection, a mirror image, a carbon copy, equivalent, equal, or double.
Any of these definitions are incorrect and do not have biblical support.
In all OT and NT occasions an image always comes after the original and there is a point the image does not exist.
It is a representation or the original, not actually the original and has many major differences.
It is impossible to mistake the original for the image
When using the biblical definitions only, the definitions of "image" that applies to Jesus as the son of God are
exactly as shown in 1b and 1c.
Image or likeness or resemblance or representation, are all words that apply to one thing being similar to another
thing, not that one thing is the other thing! Jesus being the image or likeness or resemblance or representative of
God says that he is not God. Like Jesus, we as human beings are also made in the image of God. Genesis 1:2627, Genesis 9:6 H6754 selem, Colossians 3:9-10 & 1 Cor 11:7 G1504 Eikon.
There is no biblical support, and it doesnt make any sense, to say that Paul used the term image nine times in
the NT and yet it had a different definition when it refers to Jesus in relation to God.
Jesus the image of the invisible God
This passage says that God is invisible. To me the bible is unclear as to whether God has been seen or not,
however there are only two options, either God is invisible, or he is visible. Firstly lets confirm what the scripture
says about Jesus Christ.
Hebrews 9:28 Christ will appear a second time, to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him
Christ, according to Hebrews 9:28, made his first appearance in the NT and his second appearance will be when
he returns in the future to bring salvation.
Next we look at both possibilities regarding God, that he is invisible or he is visible, then assess them against the
idea that Jesus is God.
God Has Been Seen:
Abraham: Gen 12:7, 17:1, 18:1. Isaac 26:2, 26:24. Jacob 32:30, 35:9, 48:3.
Moses Ex 3:16, 4:5, 6:2-3, 19:11, 19:20, 24:9-11, 33:11, Num 12:4-5, 12:7-8, 14:14, Deut 5:4-5, 31:14, 34:10.
Solomon 1 Kings 9:2, 11:9, 2 Chron 1:7, 7:12. Job 19:26, 33:26, 42:1+5, and several more.
According to these passages God appeared and disappeared to different people several times in the OT, therefore
Gods second appearance was in the OT along with his third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh and so on.
Jesus second appearance however will be when he returns at the end of times.
How can these two sets of facts be different and Jesus be God. If Jesus is fully God, when did God first appear, in
the OT or at Bethlehem?
Because God already appeared numerous times in the OT, scripture shows that Jesus is not God
God Cannot Or Has Not Been Seen:
Exodus 33:20, Judges 13:22, John 1:18, 5:37, 6:46, Col 1:15, 1 Tim 1:17, 1 Tim 6:16, 1 John 4:12, 4:20
Paul tells us that God is invisible, a statement that John supports in 1 John 4:20 and Jesus supports in John 6:46.
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Because God is invisible and while on the earth Jesus was seen by 1000s, Jesus was not God at the time any of
these three writers said it or any other time during Jesus' life on earth.
So either God already appeared numerous times in the OT which means Jesus is not God because Jesus first
appearance was in the NT. Or God has never been seen which also means Jesus is not God.
Jesus the firstborn of all creation
Based on all, except six figurative passages, of the 132 ESV OT examples (which is where we first go to draw
any biblical definition) and the Jewish understanding of firstborn, it refers to birth order and has the same
definition as in the OT: First in time and a new birth. Created into existence by another being. Having an origin, a
beginning, and therefore a point before it happened.
The eternal God and Father caused Jesus' spiritual birth, created his son. One spiritual being was created by
another spiritual being before creation. This is the point Jesus began to exist, his beginning. (See my section 2:
Jesus, Born and Created by God before Creation. See also my section 02C: The Son of God Before Creation.)
Firstborn means Jesus was created, had a beginning, an origin, a point he came into being; before that he was not
born, not alive, did not exist. God however is not created, without beginning, has no origin, has always been, was
never born, was always alive, always existed.
The rights of the firstborn, or birthright, first belonged to Jesus at this point or shortly afterwards (the origin of
OT rights). This was when all authority was given to Jesus. (See section 15: Jesus is under the Authority of God.)
The rights and the authority given to Jesus, by God, are the same thing. Before that point Jesus did not have
them, nor could he have. Just as in the OT examples, the Father could have removed the rights if he had wanted
to.
Jesus is the firstborn "of all" creation
As far as I understand, this is the most literal way of writing this passage. Jesus is the first born of" all creation,
before any other life. Here, of all includes Jesus. How can Jesus be firstborn of all creation and not be
created? The word "of" means that Jesus is in the class that it is "of." The firstborn is therefore a part of the
creation just like the "firstborn of the house of Pharaoh" belongs to the house of Pharaoh.
Firstborn "over" all creation.
Here we look at those from group B above which include NIV and HCSB.
Colossians 1:15
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.
The word "of" or "over" is not in the original Greek text it is added by the translators. As stated earlier, the correct
translation should be "firstborn of," there are no biblical examples of "firstborn over." The rest of the argument
from group A above applies also to this translation.
Firstborn of every "creature."
Here we look at those from group C above .
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KJV Colossians 1:15

Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
Hos esti ekon
aoratos theos
prototokos
pas ktisis
An interesting difference in the KJV and other pre 20th century translations shows that Jesus is the firstborn of
every creature. Did translators move away from this translation because they thought creation was a better
translation, or because it didn't fit with their pre-conceived ideas on the identity of Christ?
This translation puts Jesus as being born before all creatures. To say firstborn is a metaphor and have Jesus as a
creature creates more difficulties in understanding for those who think Jesus is God.
Ktisis/G2937 ESV Word count 19: Creation 16, creature 2, institution 1.
Each of the two times ktisis is translated creature it could have been translated creation and the sentence would
still have made sense. However, if you are a KJV supporter, then Jesus is a creature and not God who is not.
The Hebrews Writer
NIV Hebrews 1:6
For to which of the angels did God ever say, You are my Son; today I have become your Father? Or
again, I will be his Father, and he will be my Son?
6 And again, when God brings his firstborn (G4416 KJV: begotten) into the world, he says, Let all Gods
angels worship him.
This passage is better analyzed in full, vs1-14, as there are other important statements and also difficult quotes.
Vs5 The middle part of this verse is quoting Psalm 2:7
Vs5 The writer is pointing out that God did not say "you are my son" or "today I am your Father" to angels,
because there was a specialness that applied to Jesus and not the angels.
Vs5 "Today I have become" and "I will be" and "he will be" are all statements that indicate a point when it was
not. This being the case clearly opposes the idea of an eternal son.
Vs6 The second part of the sentence is quoting Deuteronomy 32:43 only in Dead Sea Scrolls Septuagint and NLT
The writer continues in the same vein expressing the beginning of the Father-Son relationship.
Vs6 The literal possibilities that apply to Colossians 1:15 also apply to Hebrews 1:6. this refers to Jesus'
beginning his origin.
The breakdown of the two verses confirm Jesus is not God before getting to firstborn
1/ You are my Son: "You" indicates a second being
2/
"my" indicates the first being is an owner
3/
"son" indicates an origin
4/ today I have become your Father: "Today" indicates a time before it happened
5/
"I have" indicates the first being doing something
6/
"have become" indicates a time before it happened
7
"your" indicates the second being
8/
"Father" indicates an originator
9/ I will be his Father: "I" indicates the first being
10/
"will be" indicates a time when he was not
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11/
"his" indicates the second being
12/
"Father" indicates the originator
13/ he will be my son: "he" indicates the first being
14/
"will be" indicates a time when he was not
15/
"my" indicates an owner
16/
"son" indicates an origin
17/ Again, when God brings his firstborn: "Again" indicates a repeat of what he just said in vs5
18/
"God brings" indicates a bringer and the brought
19/
"his" indicates an owner
20/ Finally
"firstborn," a first in time and a new birth.
The supporting evidence was presented between 1-19, the writer explained to us everything we need to know
about the beginning of Jesus life. This entire passage states a you and an I, a Father and a Son, a have and a have
not, an owner and an owned, a bringer and a brought, an originator and an originated, a will be and a before, a
today and a yesterday. Again means a repetition, vs6 is a repeat or confirmation of vs5. In context, firstborn is a
continuation of the statements in the previous passage.
How much evidence is needed, how many words do we need to make a statement? This is the beginning of Jesus
life, explained in clear detail as concisely and precisely as could possibly be written.
How can God bring his firstborn, specifically bring, specifically his, if firstborn is not referring to Jesus having
a beginning, being brought by another, and being owned by another? None of these apply to God.
God brought his spiritually firstborn son from heaven to be Marys physical firstborn son on the earth. Firstborn
means a beginning of life; therefore, Jesus has a beginning and an origin. Some say that because God says, let all
Gods angels worship him, that Jesus is God. This is not the case. (See my section 37F: Who Do We Worship?)
Firstborn means there was a second born, was it Adam?
Jesus was the firstborn before creation, this was before Adam who is also a son of God. Because I am unsure if
others were born after Jesus, spiritual beings, and before creation I will assume Adam is the next son.
Luke 3:37 The son of Methuselah, the son of Enoch, the son of Jared, the son of Mahalaleel, the son of
Cainan,
38 the son of Enos, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God.
Adam was born the son of God, yet is not Gods firstborn. Either Jesus or Adam has to be the firstborn by birth
order. One might say Jesus was the firstborn spiritually and because Adam was born first physically he is firstborn
by birth order, there is no biblical indication that Adam is firstborn. We know that God is the father of both Jesus
and Adam (see my sections 01C and 01D The OT and NT Father;) therefore, any rights that go with being
firstborn will always go to Jesus as he came into being before Adam. Thus when we read the scriptures that refer
to Jesus being given authority by God, they tie in with Jesus' rights of firstborn. Because of this, although Adam
was born first physically, he is not Gods firstborn.
In Job 38:4-9 scripture says that the sons of God were there when God laid the foundation of the earth, which
seems to indicate that there were heavenly beings that were sons who we could assume were also born. Some of
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the problems with Job 38 are that the entire book is full of figurative statements, "sons of God" could fall into that
category. See section 02C The Son of God Before Creation which looks at this more closely in part 4.
Summary
Firstborn means exactly as it did in the OT.
The crux of this entire study has been stated and proven right here: Jesus is the firstborn son, son born first, of
God before creation, as a spiritual being; According to the customary meaning of firstborn, it indicates that
Jesus is the eldest in Jehovahs family of sons. Jesus was born, created, and had an origin, and therefore is not
God who was not born or created nor does he have an origin.
Based on these factual truths, any teaching that says Jesus is God is false, unbiblical and untrue.
Something in all creation had to be first, and what could be more appropriate than the Fathers very first creation
being called his Firstborn Son?
Part 1B: Rights of the First Born

There is no NT passage that refers specifically to the rights, or birthright of the firstborn I have included a
relevant passage to show they are still in place in the NT and as in the OT. The son inherits everything from his
father.
Luke 15:31 And he said to him, Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.
The father expresses to the son born first in the parable of the lost son that he will, or does, own everything that
the father owns, just as in the OT. This was the birthright, or rights, of the firstborn. Jesus' position is similar in
that he was given all authority by God. (See my section 15: Jesus is under the Authority of God.)
As in the OT Firstborn study in Part 4C the birthright transferred from the son born first to a different son for
different reasons. The amount of years between birth and those transfers were 13, 19, 26 and 120 approximately.
This brings up the question if the father was able to do that in human life, can God the Father do it to Jesus?
If the Father cannot do this then the Father is not God, but we know that the Father is God.
If the Father can do this then Jesus is not God.
What do you say?
If you are in agreement so far, go to Part 2 Jesus the Firstborn of Mary at Bethlehem.
If you have opposing viewpoints, overall views are addressed here in 1C-D and specifically in the appendix.
Part 1C: Is Jesus the Firstborn Son of God with Regard to Rights Only?
There are some that say firstborn refers to rights only, here I address that theory.
Wayne Grudhem (Theologian) quoted on Matt Neal.Wordpress.com
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Colossians 1:15, which calls Christ the first-born of all creation, is better understood to mean that Christ
has the rights or privileges of the first-born that is, according to biblical usage and custom, the right
of leadership or authority in the family for ones generation. . . . So Colossians 1:15 means that Christ has
the privileges of authority and rule, the privileges belonging to the first-born, but with respect to the
whole creation. The NIV translates it helpfully, the firstborn over all creation.
This definition is fairly accurate regarding that of the birthright that belonged to the one born first, but this
passages does not say birthright it says firstborn. The OT definition of firstborn is always, except six figurative
passages, with regards to birth order.
Of the OT passages that do refer to rights/birthright being associated with the firstborn, it is always with regards
to a transfer from one brother to another, from the actual firstborn to the one receiving the birthright. Even after
the transfer of the birthright, the one who was born first remains the one who was born first. The rights/birthright
only exist because a son was born first.
The fact that Jesus would need to be given anything including the birthright confirm that he is not God, who does
not need to be given anything by anyone. In the OT the rights were always given to someone who had a
beginning, to say God needs to be given a birthright/rights is very difficult to comprehend.
Lastly, Paul knew the term birthright as he used it in Heb 12:16. If he wanted to discuss Jesus' birthright/rights or
his authority over the creation he would have used a different term.
Therefore, for these four reasons, the theory that firstborn here refers to birthright/rights is incorrect.
Part 1D: Is Jesus the Firstborn Son of God of All Creation Figuratively
In order for Jesus to be God without beginning, passages in Colossians 1:15 and Hebrews 1:5-6 either have to be
referring to the "rights" only or they have to be figurative/metaphors. There is no alternative, but would that be
reasonable to conclude? To say firstborn is figurative here, based on the OT definitions, has the following
problems:
1/ All of the 132 OT examples, except six figurative passages, which are the ones Paul would have used, refer to
birth order. This means firstborn in a figurative way is unlikely, but still possible.
2/ There was always a point, or a time, before the term firstborn in the OT 100% of the times. This means that to
say firstborn here is figurative and refers to a being who some say is eternal, has no OT parallel or basis.
3/ When words are used figuratively the original definition is still in place. A figurative usage is never based on
another figurative usage. Even so, there is no OT figurative scripture example for Colossians 1:15 or Hebrews
1:6. The closest possibility is Psalm 89, because it applied to a human being, which I address in Part 1G.
If firstborn is figurative, it is not based on OT examples or understanding but on a new definition which is
possible but unlikely. In order to say firstborn is figurative here in the NT, we need a new definition; this brings
with it the additional following problems, that all need addressing:
1/ There is no other figurative/metaphorical NT example from which to draw.
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2/ Why use firstborn if it does not mean born first?

3/ Why use firstborn, if it doesnt mean a first in time?
4/ Why use firstborn, which means birth and beginning if Jesus is God and eternal without birth or beginning?
5/ God has no other names in the bible that contradict who he is.
6/ It makes no sense to say that God is the firstborn of all creation.
7/ Why use firstborn which is related to the giving of rights when God doesnt need to be given anything?
8/ Who then is the son born first to God who owned the rights of the firstborn from God?
9/ How did the rights transfer to Jesus? From who? When?
10/ Do the rights of Gods firstborn still belong to Jesus if this is a figurative passage and Jesus is not really the
firstborn?
11/ When according to those who say Jesus is God, was Jesus first the firstborn?
Re Colossians 1:15: if words convey ideas we know that,
1/ the image is not the actual thing,
2/ invisible God is still invisible
3/ firstborn means born first,
4/ of all creation, means part of creation.
Are we really to say that none of it means what it says? Can it really be interpreted to say
1/ the image is the actual being it is an image of,
2/ the invisible God is visible,
3/Jesus is not the firstborn
4/ "of all" creation is not "of all" creation.
There are several descriptive words which, when taken in context literally mean what they literally say.
Re Hebrews 1:5-6:
The entire list of 20 descriptions from vs5-6 would have to be completely re worded. All of the following words
will have to be redefined.
you, my, son, today, I, become, your, Father, will, his, again, when, brings, his and firstborn.
Go back and look at Hebrews 1:5-6 and tell me this is not the case.
Summary:
This extensive list of problems make the likelihood of Colossians and Hebrews being taken
figuratively/metaphorically impossible.
Because of the extensive list of arguments against a literal definition of Colossians 1:15 I have addressed many of
them in the appendixes which will show that they cannot match with the biblical definition of firstborn. Each time
I refute them I will be using the previously proven definition while they will be insisting on redefined words and
meanings.
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Some say that a literal interpretation of Colossians 1:15 cannot be true because it would not be in harmony with
the following verses 16-17, this is addressed in appendix F. There is an entire overview of 1:12-20 in appendix G.
Part 2: Jesus the Firstborn Son of Mary at Bethlehem

When Jesus was born a second time of Mary he was born of God the Father and of humans. We are born of God
and of humans at birth, however both at the same time.
Here we examine Jesus as the firstborn son, son born first, of Mary at Bethlehem. Jesus was created into existence
and had an earthly beginning.
Matthew 1:25 (KJV)
And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn (Prototokos/G4416) son: and he called his name
Jesus
Matthew 1:25 (NIV)
But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.
Matthew 1:25 (ESV)
but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus.
Joseph did not have intercourse with Mary until after she had delivered her first child, Jesus. This earthly birth is
the point the son of God became the son of man, Jesus second birth. There does not have to be a union between a
man and a woman to create a born human being: (Luke 3:38) Adam, Genesis 2:22 Eve. God is the father of both
Adam and Eve in terms of genealogy. (See my section 01C: The OT Father.)
Luke 2:7 (NIV)
and she gave birth to her firstborn (Prototokos/G4416), a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him
in a manger,
Mary gave birth to her first child. Jesus was the son born first to Mary, a physically created being. Gods spiritual
firstborn now several millions of years later becomes Marys firstborn.
It says Marys firstborn not Gods firstborn for a reason, because in those times women were not seen as
important and this passage is to stress the point of the virgin birth.
Matthew 1:18 (ESV)
Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph,
before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.
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Mary was made pregnant by the Holy Spirit; therefore God is Jesus Father. (Which person do Trinitarians say is
the father of Jesus, the Holy Spirit or the Father?) God caused Jesus to exist in a human body without a male
human parent. All other human beings have a human father and God as their father.
Jesus is the Firstborn of Mary and a Son of God
Gods firstborn son from Colossians 1:15 and Hebrews 1:6 becomes Marys firstborn. God did not become Jesus
father at this point, as he was already Jesus father from Colossians 1:15. Jesus had already received the rights
of the firstborn from his father from Colossians 1:15.
Figurative possibilities
Q1/ Is it possible that Matthew 1:18 is figurative in terms of birth order from God? No because we know
Jesus physical birth through Mary was fathered by the Gods Holy Spirit.
Q2/ Is it possible that the birth through Mary is the point Jesus became Gods firstborn? That cannot be the
case because Adam is Gods son already.
Q3/ Is it possible that Jesus is the firstborn son of Mary regarding genealogies and the figurative firstborn
son of God? If yes, then who is the firstborn son of God regarding genealogies? If one says Adam,
then why is Jesus called firstborn in Colossians 1 and Hebrews 1 and in Genesis Adam is not called
firstborn?
Can Someone be Born Twice?
John 3:3 Jesus answered him, Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the
kingdom of God.
6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
7 Do not marvel that I said to you, You must be born again.
8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or
where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.
13 No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man.
Vs3 There is a second time when people are born
Vs6 Born of flesh and born of spirit, one is one and one is the other.
Vs7 Jesus said not to marvel that you must be born again. Jesus was born again of Mary, we need not marvel
Vs8 We dont understand where someone who is born of the spirit comes from or where they go.
The people of the time didnt understand where Jesus comes from or where he goes
He was born of spirit before creation, born of flesh at Bethlehem, and later born again as spirit returned to heaven
It is a different order for people who are born of the flesh first, then of the spirit before going to heaven.
Vs13 Jesus was born in heaven and descended to the earth to be born a second time, and now he explains that
people have to be born a second time.
Summary
The first two NT firstborn scriptures, Mathew 1:25 and Luke 2:7, carry on where the OT left off, referring to life
beginnings as a first in time and a new birth. This is the identification of Jesus being the firstborn son, son born
first, of Mary, the only time in the NT that firstborn is in relation to a mother. Jesus was a created earthly being
like all human beings. We also know from Matthew 1:18 that the Holy Spirit caused Jesus to have a physical
birth, and therefore, for the second time, God is the father and creator of Jesus. For the second time Jesus is Gods
firstborn regarding genealogy. God does not have a father or a creator.
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We know that all things were created by God through Jesus (Hebrews 1:1-2.) To argue that Jesus was Gods
firstborn, son born first, after he left Marys womb, would mean he was not the firstborn over all creation until
that time. This is not possible because it would contradict Hebrews 1:1-2. (See my section 3: Creation was Made
by God through Jesus.)
Part 3A: Jesus the Firstborn from among the Dead

The idea of Jesus being the firstborn from among the dead, again has literal meaning.
NIV Colossians 1:18
And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn (G4416) from among the
dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy (G4409 Proteuo, to be first, hold the first place).
Jesus is the firstborn from the dead, how is this so if others were raised from the dead before Jesus? The others
were brought back to earthly life and later died again, as opposed to Jesus, who was born into a new heavenly life.
Therefore firstborn in this verse is literal, not figurative, because after dying Jesus was the first to be born into a
heavenly life by God.
Quote: Before Christ, no other person had been raised in the resurrection. No other had been given
immortality and no other had been given a spiritual body. (1Cor. 15:44-45) It is therefore significant that a
first-in-time understanding of Colossians 1:18 is confirmed elsewhere. With such a confirmation, the fact
that there is a parallelism between verses 15 and 18 proves to be extremely significant, for such would
confirm a first-in-time sense for verse 15.
NIV Revelation 1:4-6
4
John, To the seven churches in the province of Asia: Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who
was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne,
5
and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness (G3144), the firstborn (G4416) from the dead, and the
ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood,
6
and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Fatherto him be glory and power
forever and ever! Amen.
Vs4 From John to the churches
Vs4 From God, from the seven spirits
Vs5 AND from Jesus Christ, in addition to God. Not from Christ who is God.
Vs5 G3144 martyrs Witness: A person who has been deprived of his life as a result of bearing witness to his
beliefs.
God is not the faithful witness, how could God be a witness to God? He is not.
God is not the firstborn from among the dead, as he is eternal and without end therefore cannot die.
Jesus is the son born first from a dead earthly body into a new heavenly body.
Vs6 We will serve the God of Jesus, not Jesus who is God. God does not have a God.
See section 02N Jesus has a God, Jesus and God.
Summary
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So far, we have:
Part1. The use of firstborn in Colossians 1:15 and Hebrews 1:6 refers to Jesus' initial spiritual heavenly
beginning.
Part 2. We then progressed to firstborn in Matthew 1:25 and Luke 2:7, and Jesus' earthly physical
beginning.
Part 3. And now we have Colossians 1:18 and Revelation 1:5 Jesus the firstborn from among the dead in
the sense that Jesus is Gods son born first into a new heavenly body.
An interesting thought is the three firstborn births of Jesus:
1/ the first of his father before creation.
2/ the second of his mother Mary on earth.
3/ and thirdly after he was the firstborn from among the dead into a heavenly body.
Jesus' three births have now set the tone for would-be disciples to follow a similar pattern:
1/ We also are born from our fathers.
2/ We are born again as disciples.
3/ We will be born again into a new life when we are raised on Judgment Day.
We are born, then born again Christians, just like Jesus was born, then born again as explained earlier.
Quote: That is, being firstborn of all creation is equated with and added to being firstborn from the
dead (or first of the final creation - the ones who will receive eternal life). When these two firstborns
(the first and the last) are added together the sum is one who is first [proteuo] in everything - Col. 1:18
Part 3B Is Firstborn in Colossians 1:18 Figurative?

There are some that say that Colossians 1:18 is figurative, here we address that theory.
Christianity.com
In referring to Jesus as the firstborn of the dead, John is drawing words and imagery from Psalms 89:1
which celebrates the kingship of David and his line with phrases like the firstborn, the highest of the
kings of the earth, and the idea that the Messiahs throne will be a faithful witness in the sky. Calling
Jesus firstborn portrays him as the heir of David, exalted and lifted up as the representative of his people.
This assessment is in error because David was not the firstborn of the dead, he was made firstborn in the middle
of his life. We know that Jesus was a descendant of David and also a King as was David, however this is not what
Colossians 1:18 is saying.
Part 4A: Jesus the Firstborn of Many Brothers

Jesus is shown to be the firstborn, or brother born first, among many brothers. We, are the brothers.
Romans 8:29
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For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be
the firstborn (G4416) among many brothers.
Conform: Comply with rules, standards, or conventions or be similar in form or type.
Jesus has now established a pattern for us to follow outlined at the conclusion of Part 3: Jesus the son born first is
our brother both in terms of birth order and then our relationship with God. Disciples have to conform to, to
change and be in, the likeness of Christ; then they will be Christs brothers and Gods sons. We have to be in, and
complete the process of being a son of God or a brother of Christ. Christ is the firstborn, son born first, of all
brothers, before Adam. We are the other sons of God and brothers of Christ. (It is likely that once Christ was
made perfect, this passage became true, Adam fully became his brother.)
That Jesus is firstborn among brothers means Jesus is among us and is one of us. Jesus is not God because God
is not our brother.
Summary
We have already established that Jesus regarding the term firstborn is:
Part 1. The son born first, of God before creation, as a spiritual being.
Part 2. The son born first from a heavenly body to a physical earthly body from his mother Mary.
Part 3. The son born first from an earthly body into a heavenly body.
Now we have:
Part 4. The son born first among many brothers regarding birth order and spiritual relationship to God.
We were born of our earthly fathers, born again at baptism, and are awaiting our heavenly body on judgment day.
We are brothers of Christ regarding genealogy and spirituality. Jesus and all men are Gods sons regarding
genealogy. Jesus is our first brother in regards genealogy and our relationship with God. Therefore, it is
impossible for Jesus to be God.
Note
When in time did Jesus become the firstborn of many brothers?
Option 1/ Jesus was the firstborn among many brothers before creation in order that Adam could be his brother.
Otherwise, Jesus and Adam were both Gods sons, but not fully brothers until after either Bethlehem or the cross
thousands of years later.
Option 2/ Jesus became the firstborn among many brothers during his time on earth.
Option 3/ Jesus became the firstborn among many brothers after he had completed the process of being born of
his Father spiritually in heaven before creation, being born of Mary, dying and raising from the dead and being
born into a new heavenly body.
A/ Jesus was always Gods son but not our brother until he completed the process of being made perfect on earth.
A1/ Now we are in the process of becoming fully Jesus' brothers.
B/ People who died before 33AD have exemption, covered by Christs blood retrospectively.
C/ For those who lived after Christ this had to happen in order for us to be able to follow the same pattern.
C1/ We all complete our process and fully become his brother and Gods sons at Judgment day.
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Choice:
Option 3 is my favorite for the reasons stated; however, there seem to be problems with all three options,
especially partial brothers!
Part 4B: Is Jesus the Firstborn of Many Brothers Figuratively?

Figurative Possibilities
Q1/ If firstborn is figurative in Romans 8:29, that would mean we are figurative brothers of God the son.
How can that be, as we are already literal sons of God the Father regarding genealogy?
Q2/ If firstborn is figurative and Jesus is God are we both sons of God the father literally and brothers of
Jesus/God figuratively at the same time? No
Q3/ If Adam is the firstborn literally regarding genealogy are we Adams brothers regarding birth order and
relationship with God, but Jesus brother figuratively? No
Q4/ If the term firstborn is figurative for Jesus does that mean the terms son, and father all apply
figuratively to Jesus and God? This does not add up with disciples being literal sons of God their
literal father regarding genealogy.
Q5/ Are the terms firstborn and son for Jesus figurative? No
Is the term Father for God figurative? No
Are the terms son and brother for disciples figurative? No
Figurative for Romans 8:29 is not a logical or biblical option in any way.
Part 5A: The Church of the Firstborn

The final scripture that I will analyze, refers to the Church of the firstborn. .
Hebrews 12:23
To the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all
men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect
To the Church of the firstborn, meaning to the people of Christ, we belong to Christ.
Church is referring to the people.
Firstborn is referring to Christ.
Righteous men are also made perfect just as Jesus had to be made perfect.
Firstborn (or Christ) here means all of the following concerning Jesus.
1A. Born first regarding genealogy to God before creation;
1B. the rights that go with the position of the firstborn;
2. Born first regarding a spiritual heavenly being becoming a physical human being at Bethlehem;
3. Born first regarding rising from the dead into a heavenly body after his death on the cross;
4. Born first regarding brotherly relationships with human beings.
Now we have:
5. The Church of the firstborn or the Church of Christ (Rom 16:16) the name of our current Church.
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Christ is the firstborn in regards to Parts 1-4, and because of that, we have his church. Each time the word
firstborn is in terms of a first in time and a beginning. This verse is also explaining that we are following in Jesus
path to heaven.
Summary
Church of the firstborn is referring to the group of Christs disciples. Firstborn is referring to each of the times
Jesus was born into a new life, collectively. All eight times the term firstborn refers to Christ, it is in a sense of
first in time and beginning or birth.
Part 5B: Is The Church of the Firstborn Figurative?

Figurative Possibilities
Because of the foundation of meanings in each of the previous parts, it is not possible for firstborn to be figurative
in this passage.
If it is your opinion that firstborn in this verse is figurative, then what does it mean to you?
If you are of the opinion that firstborn is figurative in Colossians 1:15 and Hebrews 1:6 in Part 1, but your
opinion is that firstborn is referring to a first in time and a birth in Parts 2-4, what do you think that the term
firstborn in Hebrews 12:23 is referring to?
Do you think that Hebrews 12:23 is referring to Jesus being a figurative and literal firstborn at the same time?
Do you think that Hebrews 12:23 is referring to a figurative firstborn Jesus from Colossians 1:1 5 and Hebrews
1:6 but not a literal firstborn Jesus from Matthew 1:25, Luke 2:7, Colossians 1:18, Revelation 1:5, Romans 8:29?
How?
Part 6: Moses and the Firstborn

The only time in the NT that firstborn is not relating to Christ:
ESV Hebrews 11:28
By faith he kept the Passover and sprinkled the blood, so that the Destroyer of the firstborn (G4416
Prototokos) might not touch them.
This is referring to the days of Moses and his faith in God, in this case, the daubing of blood on the doors of the
homes to prevent the angel of death killing the firstborn sons, the sons born first.
Part 07 Summaries Restated, and Final Conclusion.

Part 0 Definitions: The cornerstone of a study on the term "firstborn" is the OT definition of that word. As proven
it means: First in time and a new birth. Created into existence by another being. Having an origin, a beginning,
and therefore a point before it happened.
There is no NT evidence to show that the OT definition changed, the evidence confirms it is still the same.
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Part one, the crux of this study was stated and proven. Jesus is the firstborn son, son born first, of God before
creation, as a spiritual being; Jesus was created and had a beginning, and therefore is not God. Based on this
factual truth, any teaching that says Jesus is God is false, unbiblical and untrue.
In parts 1C-K, I addressed other interpretations of Colossians 1:15 and Hebrews 1:6 and they were refuted.
In part two, I showed that for the second time, God is again Jesus' Father and creator by the Holy Spirit. Jesus is
Gods firstborn son and the firstborn son of Mary at Bethlehem.
Part three showed that after he died on the Cross, Jesus became the firstborn from among the dead in the sense
that Jesus is the first to be born into a new heavenly body.
Part four explained that Jesus is the first son of many brothers by genealogy. He is also the first to have a spiritual
relationship to God. We were born of our earthly fathers, born again at baptism, and are awaiting our heavenly
body on Judgment Day. Jesus is our first brother in regards to genealogy and our relationship with God.
Therefore, it is impossible for Jesus to be God.
Part five discusses the Church of the firstborn and is referring to Christs disciples. Firstborn is referring to each
of the times Jesus was born into a new life.
Final Conclusion:
We have Mathew, Luke, Paul and John, along with the writer of Hebrews, all in agreement with each other when
using the word firstborn in reference to Jesus. Each of the eight (nine KJV) times the word firstborn/prototokos
is written in the NT, the writers meant exactly the same thing as it did in the OT referring to birth order,
There is no figurative firstborn in the NT.
Firstborn refers to the son born first and is always referring to a beginning of life as in the genealogies of the OT,
there is always an origin. Additionally, the birthright or, the rights of the firstborn apply to Jesus, just as in the
OT, as he was given all authority from God before and over all creation.
As Jesus is the firstborn, or begotten of God as the KJV sometimes translates, and therefore has a beginning, we
can rightly know that there was a point when Jesus had not been born, and so did not exist. Because he did not
exist, he is not God who always existed, and therefore the Trinity theory cannot be true.
As mentioned at the onset of this analysis, most Bible scholars agree that in biblical understanding, unless the
context presents some overriding factor, a literal application of the term should be anticipated. Each specific part
has been proven to have a literal meaning; no NT firstborn scripture is referring to rights only and not NT
firstborn scripture is figurative in any way.
To try to prove that Jesus is God will contradict the scriptures that refer to Jesus as the firstborn. To say that Jesus
is the firstborn figuratively has no basis, no scriptural support and does not add up or make any logical sense. In
order for Jesus to be a firstborn without the stated definition, firstly this current definition has to be disproved
Page 20 of 38
when applying to Jesus and secondly a new unique definition provided and proven using biblical support. If you
think Jesus is God, you have to be able to do this.
Based on this analysis, according to the Bible, Jesus is not God!
Final Note: I have left my personal citations in the document to signify I have supporting evidence elsewhere to
support this study. I have given citations to nineteen other papers I have written on various topics referenced and
related to this study. Specifically available is my OT Firstborn study, which shows the Jewish understanding
and definition of the word firstborn which is the foundation for all NT authors.
Appendix List:
Appendix H: Adam, David and Jesus

List of All Scriptures Used in This Analysis
P
Genesis 3:20 Eve the mother of all the living
P2
Matthew 1:18 Mary was with child from the Holy Spirit
P2
KJV Mathew 1:25 knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son:
P2
Luke 2:7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son
P1
Luke 3:38-39 Adam the son of God
P1A Luke 15:31 Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.
P2
John 3:3 You have to be born again
P1B Romans 8:28 All things work together
P4
Romans 8:29 likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.
P1B Romans 8:32 graciously give us all things
P1B 1 Corinthians 15:27 God has put all things under his feet
P1
Colossians 1:15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.
P1
KJV Colossians 1:15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
P1
ESV Colossians 1:15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation
P1B Colossians 1:16-17 For by him all things were created
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P3
P1
P6
P5
P3
Colossians 1:18 the firstborn from among the dead

Hebrews 1:6 And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world, he says,
Hebrews 11:28 lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them
Hebrews 12:23 to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven
Revelation 1:1-6 the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.
Appendix B: Other Proto Words

Part 0B Other Greek Words Beginning with Proto (First)
Below is a list showing all Greek words beginning with proto or first. These are here as reference for those
who make claims that when the Greek term prototokos was written it did not mean its own literal definition, but
rather had a definition of another similar sounding Greek word.
4409. prtu, prote-yoo-o; from 4413; to be first (in rank or influence):have the
preeminence.
4410. prtkathdria, pro-tok-ath-ed-ree-ah; from 4413 and 2515; a sitting first (in the
front row), i.e. preeminence in council:chief (highest, uppermost) seat.
4411. prtklisia, pro-tok-lis-ee-ah; from 4413 and 2828; a reclining first (in the place of
honor) at the dinner-bed, i.e. preeminence at meals:chief (highest, uppermost) room.
4412. prtn, pro-ton; neut. of 4413 as adv. (with or without 3588); firstly (in time, place, order,
or importance):before, at the beginning, chiefly, (at, at the) first (of all).
4413. prts, pro-tos; contr.superl. of 4253; foremost (in time, place, order or importance):
before, beginning, best, chief (-est), first (of all), former.
4414. prtstats, pro-tos-tat-ace; from 4413 and 2476; one standing first in the ranks, i.e.
a captain (champion):ringleader.
4415. prttkia, pro-tot-ok-ee-ah; from 4416; primogeniture (as a privilege):birthright.
4416. prttks, pro-tot-ok-os; from 4413 and the alt. of 5088; first-born (usually as
noun, lit. or fig.):firstbegotten (-born).
ESV:
G4409: Word count 1: Paul in Colossians 1:18
G4410: Word count 4: Mathew 1, Mark 1, Luke 2
G4411: Word count 5: Mathew 1, Mark 1, Luke 3
G4412: Word count 58: Mathew 9, Mark 7, Luke 10, John 5, Acts 5, Paul 18 inc Hebrews 1, other 4
G4413: Word count 98: Mathew 16, Mark 10, Luke 10, John 9, Acts 12, Paul 21 inc Hebrews 9, other 20
G4414: Word count 1: Acts 24:5
G4415: Word count 1: Paul Hebrews 12;16
G4416: Word count 8: Luke 1, Paul 6, Revelation 1
Summary:
Paul, the main user of the word Prototokos/G4416/Firstborn, can be seen from this information to know other
words beginning with "proto". He used five of the eight words beginning with proto that were used in the NT,
including G4409, G4412, G4413, G4415 and G4416. There is little doubt he knew and understood the meaning of
all the words that began this way and could have and would have used any of them as needed.
The definitions are from Strong's and may or may not be correct.
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Appendix C: Definitions From Other Sources

Strong's, Zondervan and Louw Nida
Strongs
The firstborn:
a) of man or beast
b) of Christ, the first born of all creation.
Strongs definition says according to birth order that Jesus was born first. This opinion supports the theory that
Jesus was born before creation and therefore not eternal and therefore not God.
Zondervan
Firstborn (human or animal). In biblical culture, the firstborn had higher status and received a greater
share of the inheritance. Jesus Christ, as the firstborn of God, is of supreme status and inherits all things.
KJV word count: Total 9, firstborn 7, first begotten 2 (Hebrews & Revelation).
Zondervans definition has human or animal in brackets and therefore must imply birth order. It then describes
firstborn in terms of rights and status. Regarding Jesus Christ it is unclear as to whether they also mean birth
order as well as rights. Because this definition says of Christ that he inherits all things, then there was a point
before he inherited and is therefore not God.
Louw Nida Greek Lexicon
Louw Nida have four slightly different definitions, there reference codes 10:43, 10:44, 13:79 and 87:47. They
give expanded definitions of those given by Strongs and Zondervan.
10.43 a, :
Pertaining to being a firstborn child (normally in contexts speaking of people but also used in reference to
domestic animals)firstborn. she gave birth to her firstborn
son Lk 2:7.
In Jewish society, the rights and responsibilities of being a firstborn son resulted in considerable prestige
and status. The firstborn son, for example, received twice as much in inheritance as any other offspring.
The use of firstborn does not imply in Greek that other children were also born to a woman,
though in a number of languages one would never use firstborn unless other children followed. Such an
individual would be spoken of merely as the only child. It is also frequently necessary to employ an
appropriate qualifier for firstborn in order to mark clearly the fact that it is a firstborn son rather than a
firstborn daughter.
The figurative meaning of in the messianic title firstborn of all
creation (Colossians 1:15) may be interpreted as existing before all creation (see 13.79) or existing
superior to all creation (see 87.47).
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This Louw Nida definition supports the idea that Colossians 1:15 is figurative and does not mean born first;
therefore, it is in contrast to Strongs definition.
LN 10:44 , n: rights associated with being the firstbornbirthright, rights of being the
firstborn. , Esau, who for the sake of a
single meal sold his rights as the firstborn He 12:16.
LN 13.79 b, : pertaining to existing prior to something elseexisting first, existing before.
existing before all creation or existing before anything was created
Colossians 1:15. It is possible to understand in Colossians 1:15 as superior in status (see
87.47). See also discussion at 10.43.
Here Louw Nida only applies this definition to Colossians 1:15 and not Colossians 1:18 or Revelation 1:5,
which uses the same Greek word. When referring to Col 1:15, LNs opinion is that Jesus always existed as
opposed to being born first. They have jumped from a definition to an interpretation.
LN 87.47 c, : pertaining to existing superior to all else of the same or related classsuperior
to, above all. existing superior to all creation Colossians 1:15. For another
interpretation of in Colossians 1:15, see 13.79; see also discussion at 10.43.
Here Louw Nida applies this definition to Colossians 1:15 and Rev 1:5. LNs definition seems at odds with their
definition LN 13:79.
Summary of Viewpoints
According to Strongs and Zondervans concordances, the definition of firstborn remains somewhat the same as
in the OT; however, my view is that they both lack clarity.
According to Louw Nida, the definition of firstborn is still the same, but it also includes additional meanings.
They include a figurative meaning for Christs superior status in Colossians 1. This is a poor definition, has no
OT basis and is a preconceived idea without support.
The definitions of Strong, Zondervan and Louw Nida are here as information only; they are opinions and
definitions by people who may or may not be correct. To agree or disagree with certain points is most likely
decided on our pre-conceived idea of whether Jesus is or is not God. One side will agree with one point; the other
side with another point. My opinion varies from point to point: some I agree with, some I do not.

Table 1.( LN = Lou Nida Greek Lexicon)
Matthew 1:25
1 Prototokon
Luke 2:7
1 Prototokon
Romans 8:29
1 Prototokon
KJV
LN 10.43
LN 10.43
Accusative
Accusative
?
Object
Object
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Colossians 1:15
Colossians 1:18
Hebrews 1:6
Hebrews 11:28
Hebrews 12:23
Revelation 1:5
Nominative:
Genetive:
Accusative:
Dative:
Used for the subject of a verb.

Indicating possession or close association.
That expresses the object of an action or the goal of a motion.
Indirect object
Mat 1:15
Luke 2:7
Rom 8:29
Col 1:15
Jesus)
Col 1:18
Jesus)
Heb 1:6
Heb 11:28
Heb 12:23
Rev 1:5
Christ)
Object
Object
Ob
Subject
Subject
2
2
1
3
4
2
Prototokos
Prototokos
Prototokon
Prototoka
Prototokon
Prototokos
LN 13.79, LN 87.47
LN 10.43
LN 10.43
LN 10.43
LN 10.43
LN 10.43, LN 87.47
Nominative
Nominative
Accusative
Dative
Genetive
Nominative
Subject
Subject
Object
Indirect object
Possession
Subject
till she had brought forth her firstborn son:

(Mary's)
and she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him
(Mary's)
that he might be the firstborn among many brothers
?
he is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. (he,
He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead
(He,
Object
when he brings his firstborn into the world,
(God's)
Indirect Object the Destroyer of the firstborn might not touch them
(Moses)
Possession
to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven
(Assembly)
Subject
from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead,
(Jesus

Part 1E Does Firstborn Figuratively Mean Preeminent or Supreme?
There are some who say that on some occasions preeminence is a substitute for firstborn, they say that it is the
meaning of firstborn in Colossians 1:15. Here we address that possibility.
OT Restated.
As identified in the OT Firstborn study where I looked at the definitions of preeminence and preeminent, there
are no grounds for using them as direct substitutes for the term firstborn. Although they are in some way related
they have clear differences in their definitions. The term birthright could certainly contain as part of its
definition the word preeminence or superiority, however neither of these could be considered as direct
replacements for the term birthright and certainly not firstborn.
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To use part of a definition of "birthright/rights" because it is associated with firstborn would be similar to using
part of the definition of milk because firstborns are given it. It would not be correct to say firstborn means white.
NT Preeminent.
Preeminent is in the ESV NT on one occasion in Colossians 1:18 and interestingly it is in the same passage as our
key word Firstborn/prototokos.
Colossians 1:18 (ESV): the firstborn (Prototokos/G4416) from among the dead, that in everything he
might be preeminent (Proteuo/G4409)
Strong's: Proteuo/G4409: To be the first in rank, to have the preeminence.
TDNT: The reference is to rank. The clause sums up, intensifies and rounds off what was said in Col 1:15
Paul uses the term prototokos/firstborn and then wants to make an addition to it and so used proteuo/preeminent.
In fact Paul had used prototokos/firstborn three verses earlier as well in vs15. As someone who knew how to
write clearly and express meaning the likelihood of him saying the preeminent/prototokos from among the dead,
so that in everything he might be preeminent/proteuo is not a possibility. He wrote prototokos/firstborn because
he wanted to make that point, and then wrote proteuo/preeminent because he wanted to make an additional
different point.
ESV Genesis 49:3 Reuben, you are my firstborn, my might, and the first fruits of my strength, preeminent
in dignity and preeminent in power.
This is an example from the OT where firstborn is followed by the word preeminent. They are from two very
different Hebrew words bekor and yeter. The OT Firstborn study defines both of those words.
ESV Colossians 1:15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.
To say that firstborn here means preeminent of all creation has no OT or NT basis at all. To invent a meaning and
insist it correct for no reason other than because someone says so is not interpretation it is conjecture, an opinion
or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information. In order for this new definition to even be
considered, the original OT definition has to be shown to be wrong, and a new definition proven to be true.
Whatever firstborn means here, because the following words say of all, it means he is part of that creation.
If it said he is leader of all creation then he would not necessarily have to be a part of creation. If it said he is
biggest of all creation then he would have to be a part of creation. If he is preeminent then he is a part of it
because of the definition of preeminence. If he is a part of it then he is not God.
NIV Colossians 1:15 he is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation
Here we have an ambiguous translation of the word over in the NIV along with an incorrect interpretation for
those who say it means preeminence.
Summary:
Page 26 of 38
In the OT preeminent is not a part of the definition of firstborn. It could be said to be a part of the definition of
birthright. It has its own Hebrew word yeter that it is translated from. All these things considered there is no
OT basis for firstborn to be defined as preeminence.
In the NT preeminent has its own Greek word "proteuo" and only shows up once meaning "to be the first in
rank." There are no grounds for replacing a word that has one definition with another word that has a different
definition even though they both begin with "pro." The Greek word Prototokos means first born, the Greek word
Proteuo means first in rank
This being said, the claim that firstborn figuratively means preeminent in any NT passage has to be false.
Exactly the same argument exists for those who say that firstborn means superior, superiority, supreme,
supremacy, greatest etc.
Part 1D Does Firstborn Figuratively Mean The Heir?

Another figurative viewpoint is that firstborn of all creation means principal heir of all creation. Here we
assess that viewpoint.
This idea has major problems:
1/ Paul used the word heir, Greek Kleronomos/G2818 in Romans 4:13, Galatians 4:1 and 4:7. He knew how to
use heir and he knew how to use firstborn if he had wanted to write heir he could have and would have
done so. He wrote firstborn because that is the word he wanted to write and the description he wanted to give.
2/ Because Jesus is the heir then there is a point Jesus inherited, a point before he inherited, and therefore isnt
God who has always owned all things and doesnt need to inherit anything.
Hebrews 1:2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through
whom also he created the world. For an in depth analysis of this topic see section 02M Jesus the Heir of God.
Summary:
Firstborn of all creation does not mean "principal heir of all creation"
Jesus was certainly appointed heir however this is not what this passages states.

Another figurative viewpoint is that firstborn of all creation is similar to that of Psalm89. Here we asses that
possibility.
JugglingMonkeys.com
In Ps. 89:27 I will make Him my firstborn means to invest Him with royal dignity, and clothe Him with
preeminent splendor, so as to make Him exalted in majesty above all the kings of the earth. This is the
sense in which Christ is called the firstborn. The term refers to His position, rank, rights and special
privileges.
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My thoughts related to David and Jesus is Psalm 89:

Firstly and most importantly, figurative passages are always related to the original definitions. The orginal
definition is always still in place. There is no example of a figurative passage in the bible being based on another
figurative passage. This idea is conjuring up a usage that is clutching at straws.
Despite what I have just written, I will address this idea
1/ Jesus is the spiritual son born first to God before creation, are the rights transferred from Jesus to David? No
2/ When David is appointed Firstborn God is giving him rights similar to an earthly son. The rights did not
transfer from someone else, in this case they were created for David perhaps in Jesus stead.
3/ David was perhaps the stand in firstborn temporarily in place of Jesus until the real firstborn Jesus came.
4/ Certain earthly Firstborn rights were given to David while he was on the earth, the rights ended after David
died. Jesus remained the son born first and owner of all the heavenly rights that came with that position.
5/ Jehovah God may have given up certain things when he appointed Jesus and gave him all authority, it wasnt a
problem for God. Additionally, it wasnt a problem for Jesus to give up certain rights (if they were given up rather
than additionally created) for a while to David.
6/ David became a Firstborn regarding rights in a way or perhaps figuratively for a while. Jesus was always the
literal Firstborn and owner of those rights as per the NT.
Prophecy: If we consider Psalm 89 a prophecy of Jesus Christ there are several points that indicate Jesus cannot
be God. 1/ There was a time or a point before it happened and therefore a time or a point it did not apply.
2/ Vs26 He has a Father and a God. 3/ Vs27 He was appointed by another 4/ Vs28 He has a covenant with God.
In this figurative example when God gives the rights of the firstborn to David, it was a temporary period of time,
given at adulthood. This is not a figurative example for Jesus because he had the rights before creation and if he
was given them, there was a point before he had them. God is not given anything.
See Section 02A2 The OT Firstborn for Psalm 89 breakdown
Summary:
I would need to hear more from someone who considers Col 1:15 to have its meaning based on Psalm 89 as I
dont understand what point they would be basing their argument on.

There are other ways I have heard or read that firstborn becomes figurative or a metaphor.
Primogeniture:
His right of primogeniture made him preeminent in his family.
Primogeniture: the state of being the firstborn child. the right of succession belonging to the firstborn
child, especially the feudal rule by which the whole real estate of an intestate passed to the eldest son.
The definition of primogeniture agrees that it is with regards to the child born first which in itself means Jesus is
not God. Additionally its definition does not include preeminence, although that may be true.
Jesus is Above All
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Bible.ca: Jesus is "the first-born of all creation" it means that He is above all creation; that He is God's
beloved
To say that "firstborn of " means "He is above" has no OT example and absolutely no basis at all. This is the
invention of a meaning that is not written in the context. Each of the words proposed "he," "is," and "above" all
have their own Hebrew and Greek words which have their own definitions.
To say that "firstborn of all creation" means "he is God's beloved" again has no OT example and no basis at all.
Again it is the invention of a meaning that is not written in the context. Each of the proposed words "he," "is,"
"God's," and "beloved" have their own Hebrew and Greek words which have their own definitions.
Jesus has Supremacy
ComeReason.org
What is stated is Christ's supremacy over creation as its mediator."
MattNeal.Wordpress.com
http://nealmatt.wordpress.com/2012/04/21/colossians-115-firstborn-of-all-creation/
Jesus is supreme over all creation.
Jesus is supreme among all creation.
The term supremacy is written in Colossians 1:18 in the NIV and is from the Greek word proteuo.
The same argument that is written in 1E for Preeminence applies to supremacy.
If Paul wanted to use the term proteuo/supreme in vs15 instead of prototokos/firstborn he would have used it, but
he didnt. He also knew how to use the term mediator as he did in Galatians, 1 Timothy and Hebrews. It could be
argued that "supreme" is a part of the OT rights of the term firstborn, however the birthright/rights has a different
definition from firstborn that does not include supreme.
Firstborn is an Adjective
GodAndScience.org
The Greek word, prototokos, translated "firstborn" is not a noun, but an adjective
Noun: a word (other than a pronoun) used to identify any of a class of people, places, or things common
noun, or to name a particular one of these proper noun
Adjective: a word or phrase naming an attribute, added to or grammatically related to a noun to modify or
describe it
There is no OT or NT basis for this idea.
First in Rank
ProofDirectory.org
Others believe that, in Colossians, Paul is referring to the resurrection (Acts 13:33). So, the best
explanation, therefore, is to regard prototokos as a figurative expression describing Jesus Christ as first in
Page 29 of 38
rank, the figure being drawn from the dignity and office held by the first-born in a human family, or, more
precisely, the first-born in a royal family.
"First in rank" is the definition of the Greek word proteuo as discussed earlier, not firstborn.
Jesus Role
It is Jesus' role in creation that makes him the "firstborn of all creation
This has not OT support and no NT support, it has no basis and no truth to it.
Dignity and Precedence
JugglingMonkeys.com
Thus, the secondary and derived meaning of firstborn a designation of dignity and precedence,
implied
by priority (e.g., Israels election in Ex. 4:22; Jer. 31:9; Rom. 8:29; Heb. 1:6; 12:23) must be
Pauls meaning
As per the OT definition of firstborn this understanding is incorrect
The Church Fathers Say So
Arguments from the so called Church Fathers support a non literal understanding.
This is obvious because they killed most who opposed their viewpoint and burned their writings.
First Parent
He is the "first Parent", or bringer forth of every creature into being, as the word will bear to be rendered
Firstborn does not mean first parent, the only part that is true is the word first.
Summary:
I have analyzed numerous possibilities of a figurative firstborn and shown them to all be unrealistic. I do however
agree that each of the six OT figurative firstborn passages had to be doing something for the first time and so
theoretically there are numerous ways they could be a comparable passage, however the OT figurative meaning
is not the definition of the word, the literal passages are. As stated earlier figurative passages are based on literal
definitions not other figurative passages.
I also agree that a NT passage does not need an OT example in order to be figurative, however it does need some
support from somewhere. If you have another possibility that I have overlooked please let me know.
In order for Jesus to be God, firstborn in Colossians 1:15 has to be viewed figuratively in some way. So however
much proof I provide to the contrary if someone still has that belief they will have to stick to that view. If that is
your viewpoint then perhaps the rest of this paper will persuade you otherwise.

Here I assess various arguments in brief
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Heavily Supported Opposition:

Some might say that the idea that Jesus is God is so heavily supported that this is the reason that we
should understand firstborn to mean something other than its literal meaning.
I say the truth that Jesus is not God is so heavily supported that this, is the reason we should understand firstborn
to be taken at its literal meaning. If we look at a study on born, or begotten, or son, or father when looked at
overall or as related to God and Christ they come to the same conclusion as do all studies on all topics when in
relation to God and Christ.
Created cannot be the Creator
If Jesus created all things he cannot be the creator.
Who is to say that God cannot create a being that cannot be involved in the creation process? We are created and
we create, in fact most of creation re-creates. In section 2 I identify that God is the source and origin of creation,
creating it through his son Jesus.
A Poem or a Hymn:
JesusWalk.com This passage seems to be a hymn or poem inserted into Paul's letter to the Colossians.
Whether it is of his own composition or a hymn of anonymous authorship circulating among the churches
of the first century we don't know -- nor does it matter. The passage is "skillfully worded and rhythmically
balanced, deserving to be called a poem."Col 1:15 is a hymn
There is no proof for this argument, someone was clutching at straws because they had done no research.
Why not First Created?
Some might argue if Jesus was created, why does this scripture not say the "first-created" (Gk Protoktizo)
over all creation?
We as humans are born of man, scripture does not have to go into detail about us being created because we know
that already as it is part of the definition of being born. The same applies to Jesus where we don't need a restating
of a definition each time a word is used. Scripture is making a point that Jesus was a living being, not something
else. Paul wanted to make the specific point
If it did say first-created of all creation firstly all would agree that he is a part of creation and secondly no one
would be arguing that it should say over etc. Because both of these points are true, then the same applies as Jesus
as the firstborn of all creation. So this is the very reason why we should also take that same viewpoint now.
We know that protoktistos was never used by any inspired NT scripture writer. It should certainly be no surprise
therefore, to learn that it isnt used at Col. 1:15, 18. Furthermore, the Bible frequently uses the word for born in
place of made or created as would be expected from the common Bible idiom of Father as creator or
source. So not only was protoktistos not used in the NT at all, it was completely unnecessary because first-born
could be used with the very same meaning!
Did Creation Parent Jesus?
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If taken literally then Jesus is the first born of creation therefore creation must be Jesus parent. In the
same way as the firstborn of Pharoah is parented by Pharoah.
This argument could be aimed at the first animals or Adam. In a way we do sometimes refer to mother earth.
Jesus can't be of the Same Substance
Because Jesus is the creator he cannot be of the same substance as his creation.
God was the creator or originator and made all things through or by of for Jesus.
The universe is made up of thousands of substances, who are we to say what substance God did and didnt use in
the beginning? Who are we to think we know what substance angels or demons are made of?
A Comparative Superlative
Some say that the words are a comparative superlative, or a predicate, or other
God wants all people to be saved, arguing whether a word is a predicate, or comparative superlative or not, is too
difficult for the ordinary person. Scripture is for the common man and usually to be taken easily at face value.
This type of argument is for the minority academic, not for the average persons like myself who has little
understanding of the intricate terms of literacy.
Whose Womb
Whose womb was opened so Jesus could be firstborn over creation?
Whose womb was opened so Jesus would be the firstborn from the dead?
God is the Father of his son Adam and his daughter eve, there was no need for a womb or a mother. God is able to
be a Father and creator of people without a womb. It was God who devised the womb and put it into the woman.
Who says you need a womb to be born, we are born again Christians and didnt need a womb to be so.
Experts and Scholars Viewpoints
Many well known and admired authors have written viewpoints in concordances, lexicons, commentaries,
bible dictionaries, and so forth to support the viewpoint that Jesus is God.
These are the viewpoints of human beings. Calling on expert opinion to support the word of God is riddled
with problems, mainly that they all have a pre assumed viewpoint regarding the very subject they are writing
about. Most are not always objective, most are not evaluating possibilities, most have grown up around other like
minded people and therefore have been indoctrinated with certain beliefs. So even though these scholars are
respected in their field, and have a certain amount of authority they are still only human beings. These writers are
not the authors of the word of God.
I personally quote expert opinion in order to use their viewpoints to support my findings, and so may also be
guilty of this problem
Not First Birth
BiblicallyShaped.com
As biblical believers, we should understand the use of the term "firstborn" in its original language and in
its proper context. The Greek term for "firstborn" used here in Colossians 1:15 is prototokos. I'll start with
what it does not mean. First, in context, it does not mean "first-birth". We know that the "first-birth", the
first human to be born from the womb of a woman, would be Cain (Gen. 4:1)
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Literally, according to all the OT scriptures, it does mean first born. First-birth could be applied to the mother of
the firstborn, or possibly the actual firstborn. It is not for us to say that God needs a mother in order for his son to
be born.
What Does Creation Mean?

1/ The creation in Genesis
2/ The creation of new disciples in the risen Christ. Eph 2:10, 2 Cor 5:17,
3/ The new creation in Revelation
My understanding is that Colossians 1:15 is referring to the creation in Genesis.
I am not including the other viewpoints in this study
Firstborns Extreme Meanings
Some might wonder why firstborn means the start of the universe and then firstborn means the start of the
eternal life all in the same passage.
There are scriptures that say the alpha and the omega, the beginning and the end which are also two very different
points but written in the same passage.
Appendix F:
Part 1K: Colossians 1:16-17 All Things Dilemma

There are some that say that when taken in context vs16-17 contradicts the idea that Jesus can be the one born
first and also create all things through, in and for him. Here we will look at it in context, review other examples,
and see that is not the case.
Colossians 1:16-17 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible,
whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authoritiesall things were created through him and for him.
17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
All things were created through Jesus and for him and in him. (See Section 3 Creation was made by God
through Jesus.)
Would it be true to say that that, if vs15 means that the son is the first thing created Paul would be contradicting
himself in vs16-17? Would it be a contradiction for Paul to say the son is the first thing created and then say
for by him all things were created, through, for and in him?
Here are some other examples of when Paul writes all things
Romans 8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those
who are called according to his purpose.
All things here does not include Satan who is not working together for good.
Romans 8:32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him
graciously give us all things?
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All things here does not include lottery winnings, Ferraris, fourteen wives and so forth to all disciples.
Arguments could also be made from Romans 11:36, 1 Corinthians 2:15, 3:21, 4:13, 6:12, 8:6, 9:22, 10:23, 11:12,
13:7, Ephesians 3:9, Philippians 2:14 and so on, showing that all things doesnt precisely and exactly include
all things.
The answer for our dilemma is best found in the following passage, again written by Paul where he addresses the
idea that all things dont have to include God, or Christ or both of them.
1 Corinthians 15:27 For God has put all things in subjection under his feet. But when it says, all things
are put in subjection, it is plain that he is excepted who put all things in subjection under him.
28 When all things are subjected to him, then the Son himself will also be subjected to him who put all
things in subjection under him, that God may be all in all.
Vs27 God has put all things under Jesus Christ. all things, according to Paul, plainly dont include God.
Although Paul didnt say so, he would also be including Jesus himself who is not in subject to himself.
Perhaps Paul wrote this in anticipation of those who would argue the meaning of "all things" in his writings.
Vs28 Again all things are except God and Jesus Christ. Paul writes all things and has obvious exceptions.
There is clearly a hierarchy of the Son being subject to the Father, and all things doesnt include either of them.
See also Ephesians 1:22.
Genesis 3:20 Adam called his wife Eve because she was mother of all the living.
To understand this statement as absolute would require that Eve is the mother of herself and the mother of Adam.
The context excludes Adam and eve from being included in all the living.
Moses wrote it this way, however we might write it all others living.
The same applies to Jesus as the firstborn and his part in creation.
Jesus was the first created and then helped create all others.
Eve was the first woman created then became the mother of all others
The OT has several passages saying that God created everything, or all things, never for one moment do we think
that this cannot be true because it would be contradictory because that would include God. Do we really think that
the creator of all things has to keep saying he didnt create himself?
Summary:
When Paul writes all things in Vs16-17, as shown in these other passages, he is not including God or Jesus
Christ. When Paul wrote all things in all the other quoted passages he didnt feel the need to re-explain what
all things meant exactly as he did in 1 Corinthians 15:27. His explanation there, along with our common sense,
is enough to cover all other examples.
In vs17 he is before all things is written to support the point Jesus was the firstborn it is written to identify that it
was before the rest of creation.

Colossians 1:12-20 Overview
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Because of the difficulties some may have agreeing that firstborn has a literal meaning related to genealogy, I
have laid out the meaning of Colossians 1 from vs. 12-20.
Colossians 1:12-14
12
Giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the
kingdom of light.
13
For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he
loves,
14
in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Vs 12 Thank the Father who qualified you. The Son did not qualify us, there is no equality between Father and
Son.
John 14:28 You heard me say, 'I am going away and I am coming back to you.' If you loved me, you
would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I.
The Father is greater than the son. (See my sections 01C/D: The OT/NT Father. This includes the definition of
father, which is the same whether it is referring to the relationship of God and Jesus or God and people.)
Vs13 The Father has rescued us from darkness by sending a savior Jesus Christ.
Isaiah 19:20 It will be a sign and witness to the LORD Almighty in the land of Egypt. When they cry out
to the LORD because of their oppressors, he will send them a savior and defender, and he will rescue
them.
(See my section 37C: Who is the Savior?)
Vs13 The kingdom of Christ
Luke 4:43 But he said, "I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also,
because that is why I was sent."
The kingdom of God
Hebrews 12:28 Therefore since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken
We will receive it from God, just as Jesus received it from God (disciples kingdom Luke 6:20). (See my section
37: Whose Kingdom? See also my section 02M: The Heir. See also my section 22: God Put Things in Position for
Jesus.)
Vs14 We have forgiveness through Christ by God
Luke 23:34 Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."
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(See my section 37E: Who Forgives Sins?)

Colossians 1:15-17
15
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.
16
For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones
or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him.
17
He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
Vs15 The birth or beginning of Christ. Jesus is the one born first, he is the original firstborn. (See complete
outline in P1 above.)
Vs16 After Jesus came into being all other things were created.
Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. God created everything
John 1:10 though the world was made through him Jesus
Hebrews 2:10 it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists,
God and Jesus made creation together. Created from or out of God, by God and by Jesus, for God and for Jesus,
through God and through Jesus. (See my section 3: The World was Made From God through Jesus.) All this
happened after Jesus had been commanded and being given authority from God. (See my section 16: Jesus Does
what He is Commanded by God. See my section 15: Jesus is under the Authority of God.)
Vs17 The birth or beginning of Christ repeated, Jesus is before the rest of creation.
John 17:5 And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the
world existed.
Jesus was with God the Father before the rest of creation and the world began.
John 17:24 because you loved me before the foundation of the world.
Jesus was loved by God before the rest of creation
18
And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so
that in everything he might have the supremacy.
19
For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him,
20
and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by
making peace through his blood, shed on the cross
Vs18 he (Jesus) is the head of the body, the church. God put Jesus in place as the head of the Church.
1 Corinthians 11:3 Now I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the
woman is man, and the head of Christ is God.
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God is the head of Christ, just as Christ is the head of the Church. Jesus is the head of the Church because God
put Jesus in place as the head. God isn't put in place as the head of the Church.
Vs18 he is the beginning refers to either:
A. The dawn of creation with God;
B. The start of the church;
C. The first to be raised from the dead into a new heavenly body.
It is both B and C: All of Vs18 is about the start of the church due to Jesus raising into a new body.
Vs18 the firstborn from among the dead. The first to be born from among the dead into a new heavenly body as
per Part 3 above.
Vs19 The fullness of God in Christ, just as the fullness of God and Christ is in disciples.
Ephesians 3:10 so that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God,
Paul said disciples can have all the fullness of God.
Ephesians 4:13 Until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become
mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Disciples have the fullness of Christ who has the fullness of God.
Colossians 2:10 you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority.
Jesus has the fullness of God. Disciples have the fullness of God. Disciples have the fullness of Christ. Disciples
have the fullness of Christ who has the fullness of God. This is all in reference to God filling both Jesus Christ
and disciples with the Holy Spirit. Before the point of being filled, neither Jesus nor disciples were filled with the
Holy Spirit.
Vs20 Through Jesus we are reconciled with God through the death of Christ.
1 Peter 3:18 For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.
He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit.
(See my section 26: Jesus Dies on the Cross. See my section 31: Jesus Intercedes and Mediates. See my section
32: Saved by God through Jesus.)
Summary
The beginning of all things (except God). The words firstborn and creation are both directly associated to
birth or beginning, it makes logical sense that when used together, they would have the same meaning. When Paul
wrote this part of his letter, he was explaining how Christ had a beginning caused by God.
Appendix H: Adam, David and Jesus.

Adam, David, and Jesus
Adam is the first earthly born son of God although not the firstborn, son born first, of God.
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David is the first earthly born son given the earthly rights and appointed firstborn by God (Psalm 89:27). (There is
some conflict regarding Jesus already having the rights.)
Jesus is the firstborn both regarding genealogy and rights. Jesus is different from both Adam and David in that
Jesus was the son born first to God spiritually and Jesus has the rights of that son at that time from then on.
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02B Jesus the Firstborn of God Before Creation

An In Depth Examination of the Term Firstborn In the New Testament

Part 0A: Definitions

Other NT Definitions of Firstborn

Part 1A: Jesus the Firstborn Son of God before Creation

KJV Colossians 1:15

Part 1B: Rights of the First Born

2/ Why use firstborn if it does not mean born first?

Part 2: Jesus the Firstborn Son of Mary at Bethlehem

Part 3A: Jesus the Firstborn from among the Dead

Part 3B Is Firstborn in Colossians 1:18 Figurative?

Part 4A: Jesus the Firstborn of Many Brothers

Part 4B: Is Jesus the Firstborn of Many Brothers Figuratively?

Part 5A: The Church of the Firstborn

Part 5B: Is The Church of the Firstborn Figurative?

Part 6: Moses and the Firstborn

Part 07 Summaries Restated, and Final Conclusion.

Appendix A: List of Scriptures Used in this Analysis

Colossians 1:18 the firstborn from among the dead

Appendix B: Other Proto Words

Appendix C: Definitions From Other Sources

Appendix D: Case Graph and Firstborn Passage Identity

Used for the subject of a verb.

till she had brought forth her firstborn son:

Appendix E: Addressing Other Interpretations of Colossians 1:15

Part 1D Does Firstborn Figuratively Mean The Heir?

Part 1G: Is Firstborn a Figurative Example from Psalm 89?

My thoughts related to David and Jesus is Psalm 89:

Part 1H: Does Firstborn Figuratively Mean Other Terms?

Part 1J: Other Arguments Against a Literal Meaning

Heavily Supported Opposition:

What Does Creation Mean?

Part 1K: Colossians 1:16-17 All Things Dilemma

Appendix G: Colossians 1:12-20 Overview

(See my section 37E: Who Forgives Sins?)

Appendix H: Adam, David and Jesus.

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