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Here is your Group Discussion Guide using the new template, based on your sermon Anchored in Jesus – Keep Him First! from Colossians 1:13–20. Communion elements and closing benedictions have been omitted as requested.

Anchored in Jesus – Keep Him First!

Colossians 1:15–20

Preacher: Alex Hogendoorn – Sept 28, 2025

Tagline

When Jesus is first, everything finds its place.

Sermon Summary

This message draws us into the cosmic beauty and personal power of Colossians 1:15–20, a Christ-centered hymn that reveals Jesus as both the origin and goal of all creation. Alex described how Paul’s words declare Jesus to be the “firstborn of all creation” and the “firstborn from the dead”—not in chronology, but in authority and inheritance. Every throne, dominion, and power exists through and for him. Even when the world seems chaotic or dark, we can rest in the order and meaning that come from keeping Jesus first. He is not just the image of God; he is the one in whom all things hold together.

The sermon called us to personal and communal response: to marvel at the supremacy of Christ, to repent of the narcissism and self-importance that infect our culture, and to rediscover our purpose as his church. Jesus makes peace through the blood of his cross, reconciling heaven and earth. He now manifests himself through his body—the Church. We are the living proof of his resurrection, a people set apart to glorify him. The call is clear and simple: keep Jesus first. In your mornings, in your chaos, in your decisions, and in your worship.

Group Discussion Guide

Icebreaker Question (pick one)

  • First things first: What is one thing you must get in place before anything else, or it won't fit in your life?
  • What’s something in your life that tends to crowd out Jesus from first place—and how do you usually recognize it?

Opening Prayer

Ask the Spirit to speak through the word and to lead your time together.

Scripture Reading

Read Colossians 1:13–20 aloud as a group.

Main Discussion Questions

1. God Revealed

This passage overflows with profound truth about Jesus, the Son of God. Take time to reflect on this hymn declaring him the Firstborn over all creation and the Firstborn from the dead. What stands out to you about who he is—and what does that reveal about God?

2. Humanity Mirrored

This message challenged the self-centeredness of our age. In what ways do you see our generation (and yourself) trying to make life about us rather than Christ? What helps you recognize this in your daily life?

3. Gospel-Centered Vision

The cross is central to Jesus’ supremacy and reconciliation. How does the cross of Jesus shape our expectations for the world to come, the church today, and our own personal peace?

4. Transformed Living

When Jesus is first, our lives find order, hope, and purpose. How does keeping Jesus first change how you see your work, relationships, and even your pain?

5. Sharing and Witness

Paul says Jesus now makes himself known through us, the church. What does it mean to be the “body of the firstborn”? Who in your life might need to see Jesus through your words or actions this week?

For Further Study

Explore these ten passages (ESV) that expand on the themes of Christ’s supremacy, creation, resurrection, and our identity in him:

  1. John 1:1–3 – Jesus is the eternal Word through whom all things were made.
  2. Hebrews 1:1–4 – The Son radiates God’s glory and sustains all things.
  3. Philippians 2:5–11 – Christ’s humility leads to his exaltation over all.
  4. Ephesians 1:7–10 – God’s plan is to unite all things in Christ.
  5. Romans 8:29–30 – Believers are predestined to be conformed to the image of the firstborn.
  6. 1 Corinthians 15:20–28 – Christ as firstfruits of the resurrection and ruler over all.
  7. Revelation 1:5–6 – Jesus is the firstborn from the dead and ruler of kings on earth.
  8. Genesis 1:26–28 – Humanity made in God’s image with a call to rule and reflect him.
  9. Psalm 89:26–27 – David called God’s firstborn, a prophetic picture fulfilled in Christ.
  10. 2 Corinthians 4:6–7 – God’s glory in the face of Christ shines through jars of clay—us.
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