Why Does Jesus Deserve the Preeminence

The theme to the Book of Colossians is found in the first chapter at the end of verse 18.  There Paul states that he is writing to the Colossians to declare the preeminence of Jesus Christ.  This brings up the question.  Why does Jesus deserve to be preeminent?  Many religions want to set their leaders on par with Jesus but is that legitimate?  Not according to Paul; and he gives some very good reasons why.