Pope Benedict XVI On Christ as Head Over All

Even more important is to see that only in these two letters is confirmed the title “head,” kefalé, given to Jesus Christ. And this title is used on two levels. In the first sense, Christ is understood as the head of the Church (cf. Colossians 2:18-19 and Ephesians 4:15-16). This means two things: above all, that he is the governor, the director, the one in charge who guides the Christian community as its leader and lord (cf. Colossians 1:18: “He is the head of the body, the church.”) And the other meaning is that it is as the head that he raises and vivifies all the members of the body of which he is head. (In fact, according to Colossians 2:19, it is necessary to “stay united to the head, from which the entire body, through ligaments and joints, receives nutrition and cohesion.”) That is, he is not just one who directs, but one who is organically connected to us, from whom comes also the strength to act in an upright way.

In both cases, the Church considers itself submitted to Christ, both to follow his superior leading — the commandments — and to welcome all of the vital flow that come from him. His commandments are not just words, mandates, but are vital forces that come from him and help us.

Read it all.

print

Posted in * Religion News & Commentary, Christology, Other Churches, Pope Benedict XVI, Roman Catholic, Theology

3 comments on “Pope Benedict XVI On Christ as Head Over All

  1. azusa says:

    What, nothing about ‘kefale = source’? Sounds a bit hierarchical to me …

  2. A Floridian says:

    Jesus is Lord and Author of Life, nothing was made without Him, He sustains everything with His powerful Word. (Hebrews 1:3)

  3. A Floridian says:

    Speaking of Life, from a reminder at Stand Firm – this Sunday is Sanctity of Life Sunday. January is Sanctity of Life month.

    Anglicans for Life:
    http://www.anglicansforlife.org/index/
    With the incoming administration’s position on abortion, they will need much help.