The expression "first-born" does not in clude Christ in the realm of the creatures, but ex cludes him from that realm. Being the firstborn and only begotten Son and Logos, and the adequate image of God, he from eternity sustained a very unique relation to the Father. And although as Mediator Christ is represented as dependent upon and subordinate to the Father; so that he is the servant sent to complete the Father's work, obedient unto death, and delivering his kingdom unto the Father; in essence and being he remains, nevertheless, co-equal with the Father. Accordingly, when in John 14:28 Jesus says that his going to the Father is for the disciples and occasion for rejoicing, "for the Father is greater than I," he does not mean that the Father is greater in power - for John 10:28-30 teaches differently - but he refers to himself in his humiliation . The Father in his glory is greater than the Son in his humiliation. But when Jesus goes to the Father this infer...