Why Should Jesus Be the Center?
A close look at Colossians 1 and eight compelling reasons Jesus deserves the throne of your heart.

Paul Durbin • Lead Pastor
May 31, 2026

5 Minute Read
OVERVIEW 👀

In this message from Colossians 1:15-23, Pastor Paul Durbin walks us through what many scholars call the most Christ-centered passage in the New Testament. Paul unpacks eight powerful reasons Jesus insists on being the center of our lives—not a welcome guest, not an add-on, but the absolute nucleus around which everything else revolves. From Jesus being the visible image of the invisible God, to the Creator who holds all things together, to the One who reconciles us back to the Father through the cross, this teaching invites us to ask an honest question: Is Jesus truly at the center of my life?

165 | Why Should Jesus Be the Center?

In this message from Colossians 1:15-23, Pastor Paul Durbin walks us through what many scholars call the most Christ-centered passage in the New Testament. Paul unpacks eight powerful reasons Jesus insists on being the center of our lives—not a welcome guest, not an add-on, but the absolute nucleus around which everything else revolves. From Jesus being the visible image of the invisible God, to the Creator who holds all things together, to the One who reconciles us back to the Father through the cross, this teaching invites us to ask an honest question: Is Jesus truly at the center of my life?

Paul Durbin • Last Sunday
TIPS 📌
  • For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you.
  • You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season.
  • Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage.
ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊
What's a weird life hack you've learned that nobody else seems to know about (like the South African super glue and baking soda trick)?
BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖

Colossians 1:15-23 (NIV)

OBSERVATION 🔎
  1. What does Paul say specifically about Jesus' relationship to creation in verses 15-17?
  2. In verses 21-22, what words does Paul use to describe our past condition versus our present condition in Christ?
  3. Verse 18 says Jesus is "the head of the body, the church" so that "in everything he might have the supremacy." What does this language suggest about Jesus' role and authority?
APPLICATION 👋
  1. Pastor Paul said Jesus isn't a "welcome guest" but the nucleus your life revolves around. What's the difference between treating Jesus as a guest versus the center?
  2. Take a moment to think honestly—what currently competes with Jesus for the center of your life? This isn't about shame; it's about clarity on where our hearts actually orbit.
  3. Paul warned about following political leaders, entertainers, or ideologies with cult-like intensity. Where do you see this happening in your own life or circles? Sometimes the things we follow most passionately reveal what we've actually centered our lives around.
  4. Pastor Paul shared that Jesus' fingerprint is literally on you because He created you. How does seeing yourself as God's artwork change the way you treat yourself and others?
  5. If "Jesus holds everything together," what's an area of your life right now that feels like it's falling apart and could use His sustaining grip? Naming it is often the first step to surrendering it.
  6. The "if you continue" language in verse 23 creates some tension—our reconciliation is by grace, yet we're called to keep walking in faith. How do you live in that tension without falling into either laziness or legalism?
  7. Pastor Paul shared about the long alienation and eventual reconciliation with his sister. Is there a relationship in your life where you could take the first step toward reconciliation, the way God took the first step toward you?
LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️
  1. Write down the eight reasons Jesus deserves the center and post them somewhere you'll see daily this week—on the bathroom mirror, your dashboard, or the fridge.
  2. Take a "centering inventory" this week. Each evening, ask yourself: where did Jesus actually sit on the throne of my heart today, and where did something else?
  3. Reach out to someone you've been alienated from. Send the text, make the call, suggest the coffee. Be the one who moves first, like Jesus did toward us.
  4. Invite a fellow Belay'er into a conversation about what it practically looks like to keep Jesus at the center in their work, family, or schoolweek.
  5. Bless someone this week who doesn't yet know the One who holds all things together—offer a meal, a listening ear, a prayer, or a simple word of encouragement.
PRAYER 🙏
  • Thank Jesus for being the image of the invisible God and ask Him to make Himself more visible in your daily life.
  • Pray for the grace to dethrone whatever currently sits where Jesus belongs.
  • Ask the Holy Spirit for endurance—the kind Paul talked about—to keep continuing in your faith.
  • Pray for a relationship in your life that needs reconciliation, asking God to give you courage to take the first step.
  • Pray for Belay, that we would be a community where Jesus is unmistakably at the center.
WORSHIP 🙌


OUTLINE 📝

Main Idea: Jesus insists on being the absolute center of your life, and Colossians 1 gives us eight powerful reasons why.

1) Jesus Is God

  • The icon of the invisible God
  • Not Caesar, not a political leader, not an entertainer

2) Jesus Created Everything

  • All things made through Him and for Him
  • His fingerprint is literally on you

3) Jesus Holds Everything Together

  • The supernatural glue of the universe
  • If He holds galaxies, He can hold your life

4) Jesus Has Been Put in Charge

  • Head of the body, the church
  • Life goes better when He calls the shots

5) Jesus Is the Essence of Life

  • "I am the resurrection and the life"
  • Resurrection didn't happen to Jesus—He (the resurrection and life) happened to death

6) Jesus Gave His Life for Us

  • Sin requires blood; God provided His own
  • Atonement received, not earned

7) Jesus Reconciles Us to God

  • We were enemies; now we're holy and free
  • God made the move toward us

8) Jesus Sustains Us

  • "If you continue" is held up by His Spirit's power
  • We don't walk this road alone

Takeaway: Jesus has moved toward you—why not move back toward Him and let Him take His rightful place at the center?

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May 31, 2026 • 5 Minute Read
Why Should Jesus Be the Center?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this message from Colossians 1:15-23, Pastor Paul Durbin walks us through what many scholars call the most Christ-centered passage in the New Testament. Paul unpacks eight powerful reasons Jesus insists on being the center of our lives—not a welcome guest, not an add-on, but the absolute nucleus around which everything else revolves. From Jesus being the visible image of the invisible God, to the Creator who holds all things together, to the One who reconciles us back to the Father through the cross, this teaching invites us to ask an honest question: Is Jesus truly at the center of my life?Jesus at the Center TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 What's a weird life hack you've learned that nobody else seems to know about (like the South African super glue and baking soda trick)? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 1:15-23 (NIV) OBSERVATION 🔎 What does Paul say specifically about Jesus' relationship to creation in verses 15-17? In verses 21-22, what words does Paul use to describe our past condition versus our present condition in Christ? Verse 18 says Jesus is "the head of the body, the church" so that "in everything he might have the supremacy." What does this language suggest about Jesus' role and authority? APPLICATION 👋 Pastor Paul said Jesus isn't a "welcome guest" but the nucleus your life revolves around. What's the difference between treating Jesus as a guest versus the center? Take a moment to think honestly—what currently competes with Jesus for the center of your life? This isn't about shame; it's about clarity on where our hearts actually orbit. Paul warned about following political leaders, entertainers, or ideologies with cult-like intensity. Where do you see this happening in your own life or circles? Sometimes the things we follow most passionately reveal what we've actually centered our lives around. Pastor Paul shared that Jesus' fingerprint is literally on you because He created you. How does seeing yourself as God's artwork change the way you treat yourself and others? If "Jesus holds everything together," what's an area of your life right now that feels like it's falling apart and could use His sustaining grip? Naming it is often the first step to surrendering it. The "if you continue" language in verse 23 creates some tension—our reconciliation is by grace, yet we're called to keep walking in faith. How do you live in that tension without falling into either laziness or legalism? Pastor Paul shared about the long alienation and eventual reconciliation with his sister. Is there a relationship in your life where you could take the first step toward reconciliation, the way God took the first step toward you? LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Write down the eight reasons Jesus deserves the center and post them somewhere you'll see daily this week—on the bathroom mirror, your dashboard, or the fridge. Take a "centering inventory" this week. Each evening, ask yourself: where did Jesus actually sit on the throne of my heart today, and where did something else? Reach out to someone you've been alienated from. Send the text, make the call, suggest the coffee. Be the one who moves first, like Jesus did toward us. Invite a fellow Belay'er into a conversation about what it practically looks like to keep Jesus at the center in their work, family, or schoolweek. Bless someone this week who doesn't yet know the One who holds all things together—offer a meal, a listening ear, a prayer, or a simple word of encouragement. PRAYER 🙏 Thank Jesus for being the image of the invisible God and ask Him to make Himself more visible in your daily life. Pray for the grace to dethrone whatever currently sits where Jesus belongs. Ask the Holy Spirit for endurance—the kind Paul talked about—to keep continuing in your faith. Pray for a relationship in your life that needs reconciliation, asking God to give you courage to take the first step. Pray for Belay, that we would be a community where Jesus is unmistakably at the center. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: Jesus insists on being the absolute center of your life, and Colossians 1 gives us eight powerful reasons why. 1) Jesus Is God The icon of the invisible God Not Caesar, not a political leader, not an entertainer 2) Jesus Created Everything All things made through Him and for Him His fingerprint is literally on you 3) Jesus Holds Everything Together The supernatural glue of the universe If He holds galaxies, He can hold your life 4) Jesus Has Been Put in Charge Head of the body, the church Life goes better when He calls the shots 5) Jesus Is the Essence of Life "I am the resurrection and the life" Resurrection didn't happen to Jesus—He (the resurrection and life) happened to death 6) Jesus Gave His Life for Us Sin requires blood; God provided His own Atonement received, not earned 7) Jesus Reconciles Us to God We were enemies; now we're holy and free God made the move toward us 8) Jesus Sustains Us "If you continue" is held up by His Spirit's power We don't walk this road alone Takeaway: Jesus has moved toward you—why not move back toward Him and let Him take His rightful place at the center?

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

May 28, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Discovery Bible Study
What is it? DBS is a simple guide for group Bible study. In a DBS, we read a Bible story together, discover what it says, and then are challenged to live out what we’ve learned and share it with someone else. Connect 💬 What are you thankful for? What's a challenge you or others are facing? How can this group help with those challenges? How did your “I will” statement go recently? Who did you share with? Discover 🔍 Read the passage, then someone retell it in their own words. What stands out to you? (keep it short) What do we learn about God/Jesus? What do we learn about people/us? Go 👣 Ask the Holy Spirit two questions: “How do you want me to respond to what I learned today?” (Share an “I will...” statement with the group as your response). “Who do you want me to share this with?” (Share their name with the group). Set a time to meet again — to share how the week went and open another passage together. 10 Stories of Hope Party at Levi’s Mark 2:1-17 (NIV) Jesus Teaches Nicodemus John 3:1-17 (NIV) A Transformed Life Mark 5:1-20 (NIV) A Memorable Act Luke 7:37-50 (NIV) The Lost Son Returns Luke 15:11-32 (NIV) Thank You Luke 17:11-19 (NIV) What God Sees Luke 18:9-14 (NIV) Coming to Your House Luke 19:1-10 (NIV) Hungry for God John 4:1-54 (NIV) Hearing God Mark 4:1-20 (NIV) For more information and additional lists, visit https://novo.org/dbs

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

May 24, 2026 • 6 Minute Read
How Does God Keep Growing You After You Believe?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this opening message of a six-week series through Colossians, Pastor Paul Durbin walks us through the first 14 verses of Paul's letter and asks a simple but powerful question: how does God's work keep growing in us after we've believed? Drawing from Paul's prayer for the Colossian church, Paul highlights five growth areas the Holy Spirit wants to develop in every follower of Jesus—clarity, strength, gratitude, awareness, and prayerfulness. With warmth, humor, and practical insight, Paul reminds us that spiritual maturity isn't about hard things going away; it's about being rooted deeply enough in Christ to bear more and more fruit, no matter the season.Sermon TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 If you had to compete in curling, pickleball, or ultimate frisbee for a championship, which would you pick and why? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 1:1–14 (NIV) 1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2 To God’s holy people in Colossae, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ: Grace and peace to you from God our Father. 3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people—5 the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven and about which you have already heard in the true message of the gospel 6 that has come to you. In the same way, the gospel is bearing fruit and growing throughout the whole world—just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood God’s grace. 7 You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, 8 and who also told us of your love in the Spirit. 9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, 12 and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. OBSERVATION 🔎 What does Paul specifically thank God for when he prays for the Colossians, and what does that reveal about what mattered most to him? In verses 9-12, what are the specific things Paul asks God to do in the lives of these believers? According to verses 13-14, what has God already done for those who are in Christ? List as many actions as you can find. APPLICATION 👋 Where in your life right now are you most needing clarity from God? Paul prays that we'd be "filled with the knowledge of His will." Think about a decision, relationship, or season where you're unsure of what God wants—what would it look like to actively seek His will rather than passively wait? What's a hard thing from a few years ago that doesn't level you the way it used to? Spiritual maturity doesn't mean hard things stop hurting—it means they stop having the same power to destroy us. Consider how God has already grown your strength and endurance. When you scan your conversations from the past week, which won out—gratitude or complaining? Our culture trains us to complain and call it feedback. Be honest with yourself about the tone of your everyday talk. What's one specific thing Jesus has "buried" in your life that you sometimes still try to dig back up?Brokenness, unforgiveness, shame, idolatry—Paul says these things go into the grave with Christ. Sometimes we keep revisiting what God has already put to rest. Do you tend to think of yourself more as a sinner or as a saint? Paul never addresses believers as sinners—he calls them saints with growing to do. Our self-identity shapes how we live. Who are you currently praying for regularly, and who might God be nudging you to add to that list? Paul models growth in prayerfulness by simply praying these very things for people he had never even met. What's one practice you could put in place this week to grow in one of these five areas (clarity, strength, gratitude, awareness, prayerfulness)? Growth isn't passive. Pick one and get specific. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Start a simple gratitude rhythm this week—text one person each day something specific you're thankful for about them. Pick three people (a neighbor, a co-worker, a Belay'er) and pray Colossians 1:9-12 over them by name every day this week. Catch yourself mid-complaint at least once and turn it into a thank-you out loud, even if it feels awkward. Take a 20-minute walk with no phone and ask God for clarity on one specific decision you're facing. Reach out to someone who is in a hard season and remind them that what once leveled them won't level them forever—offer to pray with them. PRAYER 🙏 Lord, fill me with the knowledge of Your will—give me clarity for the decisions in front of me. Father, strengthen me with Your power so I can endure with patience whatever this week brings. Jesus, replace my complaining heart with a grateful one—catch me when I drift. Holy Spirit, help me see clearly what's been buried at the cross and what's been raised to new life in me. Lord, grow me in prayerfulness for the people around me, especially those who don't yet know You. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: God's work in us doesn't stop at belief—He keeps growing us in five key areas. 1) Growing in Clarity Knowing God's will for our life Asking, reading, yielding 2) Growing in Strength, Power, and Endurance Hard things still happen—but they don't destroy us the same way Spiritual maturity carries weight that used to crush us 3) Growing in Gratitude A complaining tongue reveals an ungrateful heart Contentment in every circumstance through Christ's strength 4) Growing in Awareness What's been buried with Christ: brokenness, unforgiveness, sin's reign, idolatry, shame, deception What's been raised in Christ: relationship, inheritance, sainthood, embarking on mission 5) Growing in Prayerfulness Paul models it by praying these very things for people he'd never met Mature faith prays these growth areas over others Takeaway: Keep growing—by God's grace, in His power, for His glory.

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

May 17, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
How Do We Stay on the Path of Purity?
OVERVIEW 👀 Paul Durbin teaches from Psalm 119 and asks the same question David asked thousands of years ago: how can a person stay on the path of purity? Purity is not just about avoiding obvious sin; it is a life of honesty, integrity, holiness, and character, where we have nothing to hide and our lives honor God and people. Paul walks through six practical ways to stay on that path: prioritize the Word of God, unreservedly seek God, restrict your freedom, internalize Scripture, turn and keep turning, and ultimately yield to the lordship of Jesus. The message reminds us that we cannot walk this path in our own strength, but Jesus cleanses us, forgives us, and gives us resurrection life so we can live differently.How Do We Stay on the Path of Purity? TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don’t need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 If your life had a “no Bible, no browsing” rule, what app would complain the loudest? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Psalm 119:9-11 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. With my whole heart, I have sought you. Don’t let me wander from your commandments. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Psalm 24:3-6 Who may ascend to Yahweh’s hill? Who may stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart; who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood, and has not sworn deceitfully. He shall receive a blessing from Yahweh, righteousness from the God of his salvation. This is the generation of those who seek Him, who seek your face, even Jacob. Psalm 119:32 I run in the path of your commandments, for you have set my heart free. Psalm 119:36-37 Turn my heart toward your statutes, not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from looking at worthless things. Revive me in your ways. Acts 20:21 Testifying both to Jews and to Greeks repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus. 2 Corinthians 5:21 For him who knew no sin he made to be sin on our behalf; so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. OBSERVATION 🔎 In Psalm 119:9-11, what specific actions does the writer connect to staying on the path of purity? In Psalm 24:3-6, what kind of person is able to “stand in his holy place,” and what does that person receive from the Lord? In Psalm 119:36-37, what does David ask God to turn his heart and eyes away from, and what does he ask God to turn him toward? APPLICATION 👋 Where do you most need to prioritize the Word of God in your daily life right now? Paul talked about how easily distractions take over if we do not make a purposeful decision. Think honestly about what gets your first attention, your best energy, and your most consistent habits. What would “no Bible, no browsing” look like in your real life? This does not have to become a legalistic rule, but it may reveal something important about what is shaping your heart before God’s Word gets a chance to. What does it mean for you to seek God with your whole heart in this season? Paul described God as one who invites us to seek Him, call to Him, and look for Him. Consider what rhythms, prayers, or choices would help you move toward Him more intentionally. Where might you need to restrict your freedom so you can actually live more freely? The playground fence illustration reminds us that guardrails are not always punishment; sometimes they create the space where we can run with confidence. What “covenant with your eyes” or similar decision do you need to make before the moment of temptation arrives? Job made a decision ahead of time about what kind of person he wanted to be. Think about the choices you can make now so you are not deciding under pressure later. What Scripture do you need to internalize, not just read? Paul shared how memorized Scripture shaped his faith, his love for Jesus, and his love for people. Consider one passage you could meditate on, memorize, pray through, or revisit until it starts shaping you from the inside out. Is repentance becoming a regular habit in your life? Paul said we turn from sin and turn toward Jesus, then keep turning for the rest of our lives. Think about whether you respond quickly when the Holy Spirit shows you something, or whether you tend to ignore, defend, or delay. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Invite someone into a simple Scripture rhythm with you this week. Ask a friend, your spouse, your kids, or someone in your Belay community to read Psalm 119:9-11 with you each day and share one thing God is highlighting. Create one practical guardrail that helps you walk the path of purity. It might be a phone boundary, a content boundary, a relationship boundary, a spending boundary, or a time boundary. Then tell someone you trust so they can encourage you. Encourage a graduate, student, young adult, or someone in transition. Send them a note, take them to coffee, or pray over them. Remind them that the path of purity is worth it, and they do not have to walk it alone. Practice quick repentance this week. When the Spirit nudges you about an attitude, action, word, or thought, pause and turn toward Jesus right away. Do not spiral into shame; turn and keep turning. Be a blessing through integrity. Choose one place where honesty, humility, or holiness could bless someone else this week, maybe at work, home, school, or in a friendship. Let your life make Jesus look good. PRAYER 🙏 Jesus, help me walk the path of purity with honesty, integrity, and a heart that honors You. Father, teach me to prioritize Your Word above the distractions that compete for my attention. Holy Spirit, show me where I need wise guardrails, and give me the humility to receive them. Lord, turn my heart away from selfish gain and my eyes away from worthless things. Jesus, I yield to Your lordship again today. Cleanse me, lead me, and help me keep turning toward You. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: We stay on the path of purity by building our lives around God’s Word, seeking God fully, setting wise guardrails, turning from sin, and yielding to Jesus. 1) The question David asks How can a person stay on the path of purity? Purity as integrity, honesty, holiness, and character A life with nothing to hide 2) Why the path of purity matters Clean hands and a pure heart Blessing from the Lord Vindication from God our Savior 3) Prioritize the Word of God Living according to God’s Word Distraction is always available No Bible, no browsing 4) Unreservedly seek God Seek Him with all your heart God invites us to call and look for Him Those who seek Him will not be disappointed 5) Restrict your freedom Do not let me stray from Your commands Guardrails help us run freely Decide before you decide 6) Internalize the Word of God Hide God’s Word in your heart Scripture shapes desire and direction God’s Word transforms from the inside out 7) Turn and keep turning Turn from sin Turn toward Jesus Make repentance a lifelong habit 8) Yield to the lordship of Jesus We cannot stay pure in our own strength Jesus was tempted but did not sin In Him we become the righteousness of God Takeaway: Walk the path of purity by surrendering fully to Jesus and letting His Word, His Spirit, and His lordship shape your life.

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

May 10, 2026 • 6 Minute Read
Is There a Standard for Giving?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this message, Pastor Paul Durbin walks us through 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 and uncovers six surprisingly practical standards for giving. Drawing from Paul's words to a self-absorbed Corinthian church, he shows how generosity pulls us out of ourselves and into God's mission. With honesty, humor, and stories from his own life, Paul invites Belay'ers to see giving not as a burden, but as a beautiful habit that breaks money's grip and shapes us into people who live "on belay."View Media TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 If someone handed you a "silver dollar," would you actually check to see if it was real silver, or just toss it in a drawer and forget about it? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 1 Corinthians 16:1-2, Now about the collection for the Lord's people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8, Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. OBSERVATION 🔎 Who is the offering in 1 Corinthians 16 intended for, and what does that tell us about Paul's vision for the Corinthian believers? Paul instructs giving to happen "on the first day of every week." What specific details does he give about how and when this should be done? In 2 Corinthians 9, what kind of giver does God love, and what promise follows that kind of giving? APPLICATION 👋 Paul redirected the Corinthians from their own problems to a need 1,000 miles away. Where in your own life have you been so self-focused that you've lost sight of the needs of others? It's easy for our prayers, our energy, and our money to circle around our own world. Pastor Paul shared the story of giving away his guitar money so his friend could buy a bass. When was the last time giving cost you something you actually wanted? Sometimes the most formative giving moments aren't the easy ones. If giving is a normal practice for followers of Jesus, why do you think it's the one church practice people push back on most? Jesus warned that we can't serve both God and money—so our resistance often reveals something deeper about who has our heart. Paul says to give on the first day of the week, before we know what's coming. How does your current giving rhythm compare to that? Many of us wait until the end of the month to see what's "left over," which often means little or nothing is left. Have you ever sat down and made an actual plan for your generosity—a budget for giving? Without a plan, giving tends to be reactive instead of intentional, and we miss the joy of being ready when needs arise. Pastor Paul described how he and Patty consider 20% of their income as "not theirs"—designated for God, for others, and for blessing kids. What percentage feels honest for where you are right now, and what would it look like to grow from there? This isn't about hitting a number—it's about training your heart. What would it look like for you to have "margin" in your finances so you could give freely when the Spirit prompts you? Margin is what turns generosity from a struggle into a joy. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Set up a zero-based budget this week (using an app or just a notebook) and give every dollar a job—including a line item for generosity. Identify one missional need outside your immediate circle—a missionary, a ministry, a neighbor in another country—and give toward it this month. Make giving the first line in your budget instead of the last. Try it for 30 days and see what shifts in your heart. Surprise someone with a gift this week—a meal, a tank of gas, a coffee, an unexpected check—and don't tell anyone you did it. Talk with your spouse, a roommate, or a trusted Belay'er about your giving plan. Generosity grows best in community. PRAYER 🙏 Ask God to show you any way money has become your master instead of your servant. Pray for a missional vision—eyes that see needs beyond your own household and scope. Ask the Spirit to help you trust Him with the first of your income, not just the leftovers. Pray for joy in giving, that it would become a habit you look forward to instead of one you avoid. Pray that Belay would continue to be a church marked by generosity, margin, and missional giving. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: God's Word gives followers of Jesus a clear standard for generosity—six simple practices found in just two verses. Text: 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 1) Giving is missional a. A vision for needs beyond our own scope b. Paul points Corinth toward Jerusalem, a thousand miles away 2) Giving is normal a. It's simply what the church does, like prayer and worship b. Resistance to giving reveals who our true master is (Luke 16) 3) Giving happens first a. Give before you know what the week holds b. Abel's firstborn vs. Cain's "in the course of time" 4) Giving is habitual a. Not when we feel like it, but a regular rhythm b. Like exercise, food, and sleep—built into our lives 5) Giving is proportionate a. "In keeping with your income"—no set price tag b. Examples from Jacob (a tenth) to the early church (everything) 6) Giving creates margin a. A plan creates freedom to give when needs arise b. True for individuals and for Belay as a church Takeaway: Build a plan for generosity, and let God shape you into a cheerful, missional giver.

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

May 3, 2026 • 9 Minute Read
Where Are You in the Story God Is Still Writing?
In this message, Kevan Ho walks us through a sweeping survey of the first half of the book of Acts, showing how the early church was born, shaped, and scattered—all in the rhythm of God's mission. From the confrontation of the gospel to a community marked by devotion, from facing real problems to being sent out by unnamed everyday people, Kevan invites us to find ourselves in this ongoing story. The book of Acts ends mid-sentence on purpose, because the story of Jesus at work through His people is still being written—and we're part of it.View Media TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 If you had to describe yourself as a "devoted fan" of something (a sport, a snack, a TV show, a hobby), what would it be and how embarrassing is the level of devotion? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Acts 1:8 — But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. Acts 2:1-4 — When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. Acts 2:36-38 — Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified. Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?" And Peter said to them, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." Acts 2:42-47 — And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. Acts 8:1-4 — And Saul approved of his execution. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. Devout men buried Stephen and made great lamentation over him. But Saul was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison. Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. Acts 11:19-21 — Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews. But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists also, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. Acts 28:30-31 — He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance. OBSERVATION 🔎 In Acts 1:8, what does Jesus connect the power of the Holy Spirit to? Notice the geographic progression—what does it suggest about the scope of God's mission? In Acts 2:42-47, what four things were the early believers devoted to, and what specific behaviors flowed out of that devotion? In Acts 8:1-4 and 11:19-21, who is actually doing the preaching as the gospel spreads? What do you notice about how God uses the scattering? APPLICATION 👋 Kevan said the Christian message is sometimes comforting and sometimes deeply confrontational. Where in your life right now do you sense God comforting you, and where might He be confronting you? This question helps us recognize that a healthy walk with Jesus includes both being held and being challenged. Kevan reminded us that confrontation isn't shaming—it's like a doctor honestly telling us the diagnosis so we can be healed. When the crowd was "cut to the heart," they asked, "What shall we do?" Is there an area of your life where the Spirit has cut you to the heart but you haven't yet responded with repentance or change? Repentance simply means turning around—stepping down as king of your own life so Jesus can take the throne. Kevan shared his own story of being fourteen and hearing the gospel for the first time as the song his heart had been humming all along. The early church was marked by devotion—to teaching, prayer, fellowship, and one another. What are you actually devoted to right now (be honest), and what would it look like to grow in devotion to Jesus and His people? Kevan pointed out that devoted people can spot casual fans a mile away. Devotion shows up in how we spend our time, our money, and our attention. Ananias and Sapphira's sin wasn't a lack of generosity—it was wanting to appear more than they were. Where do you feel the pull to "image manage" in your spiritual life? This is the gap between who we are and who we want to appear to be. Kevan said the church should be a safe place to bring our honest selves in search of grace. When you see problems in the church (any church, including Belay), what's your default reaction—withdraw, complain quietly, or humbly bring it forward in a way that seeks solutions? The early church had real problems—neglect, deception, persecution—and they didn't pretend otherwise. Kevan highlighted that truthful, humble complaints brought to leadership actually moved the mission forward. Looking back at painful or disorienting seasons in your life, can you see places where God was writing a bigger story than the one you were feeling in the moment? Kevan reminded us that the scattering of the early church looked like loss but was actually the spread of the gospel. Our pain isn't wasted in the hands of a redeeming God. The gospel went to the Gentiles because of unnamed people from Cyprus and Cyrene who just started talking about Jesus. Who in your life right now might God be inviting you to simply have a conversation with? You don't need a title, a degree, or an official role to live on mission. Kevan shared how his family came to Colorado with one simple motto: "We're going to make friends for Jesus." LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Pick one person this week who doesn't know Jesus and pray for them daily by name. Then look for one natural opportunity to invite them into your life—coffee, a meal, a walk, a hike. Practice radical honesty with one trusted person this week. Share something real you've been hiding or managing, and let them speak grace and truth back to you. Identify one rhythm of devotion (Scripture, prayer, fellowship, generosity) that's been slipping, and rebuild it this week in a concrete way—even if it's small. Look for an "unnamed" act of kindness or witness you can offer someone this week. No platform, no spotlight—just a quiet conversation, a meal delivered, a need met. If you've been carrying a complaint or concern about something in the church, bring it forward humbly and truthfully to a leader or a Belay'er you trust, with a heart for solutions. PRAYER 🙏 Ask the Spirit to show you where you are in the Acts story right now—and to give you courage to name it honestly. Pray for someone in your life who needs to hear the gospel. Ask God to soften their heart and to give you the words and the moments. Pray for Belay to be a community marked by devotion, honesty, and joy—not image management or casual faith. If you're in a season of pain, loss, or disorientation, ask God to show you the bigger story He's writing, even when you can't see it. Pray for the unnamed Belay'ers quietly living on mission—at work, in neighborhoods, in schools, in homes. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE Kevan opens by setting up the strange ending of Acts—Luke stops mid-story on the word "unhindered." The Great Commission in Acts 1:8 becomes the table of contents for the whole book: Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, the ends of the earth. Pentecost in Acts 2: the Spirit comes communally and propels the disciples into mission. Peter's sermon confronts the crowd with both their sin and God's love—they are cut to the heart and respond with repentance and baptism. Kevan shares his own fourteen-year-old story of hearing the gospel for the first time. Acts 2:42-47: the early church is marked by deep devotion—to teaching, prayer, fellowship, generosity, and one another. Ananias and Sapphira: the sin of image management and deception, and the call to radical honesty in community. Acts 6: real problems of neglect in the church, and the model of truthful complaint, humble leadership, and faithful problem-solving. Acts 7-8: persecution, the scattering, and the bigger story God writes in the midst of pain and loss. Acts 11: unnamed men and women from Cyprus and Cyrene take the gospel to the Gentiles—shifting the center of gravity to Antioch. Kevan ties it back to his own family's move to Colorado and the everyday mission of making friends for Jesus. The book ends "unhindered" because the story keeps going—through us. Where are you in the arc?

Kevan Ho