When we come to the New Testament,[8] we find that the emphasis is placed not on the idea of birth but instead upon the first part of the word—protos, the “first.” The word stresses superiority and priority rather than origin or birth.[9] In Romans 8:29, the Lord Christ is described as “the firstborn among many brethren.” These brethren are the glorified Christians. Here the Lord’s superiority and sovereignty over “the brethren” is acknowledged, as well as His leadership in their salvation.
