Jesus is the Main Character of the Story (Colossians 1:15-20)
In Colossians 1:15–20, the Apostle Paul gives us one of the most sweeping and beautiful descriptions of who Jesus is in all of Scripture. Written in response to false teaching that questioned Jesus’ importance, this passage reminds us that Jesus is not a side character in God’s story—he is the center of it.
Paul likely includes (or adapts) an early Christian hymn to make his point. The language is poetic and grand, inviting us not to overanalyze every phrase but to step back and behold the whole. Jesus is described as the image of the invisible God, the creator of all things, the one who holds everything together. Creation exists through him and for him. The church exists under his leadership. Salvation flows from his victory over death and his reconciling work on the cross.
Yet while Jesus is central, we often resist that reality. Like Jonah—who wanted comfort, control, and moral superiority—we’re tempted to place ourselves at the center of our own stories. We prioritize ease over calling, scarcity over generosity, and blame over confession. But Scripture shows us that this way of living is not freedom—it’s exhaustion.
The good news is that Jesus’ centrality is not self-centeredness; it’s love. Only someone truly worthy can bear the weight of being the main character. When Jesus takes center stage, he becomes our sustainer, our reconciler, and our peace. Like Mary, who responded to God’s call with open-handed trust, we’re invited to decenter ourselves and rediscover the beauty of his story—especially in this Advent season.
Jesus makes himself the main character so that we don’t have to be. And that is very good news.
Reflection Questions
Where do you notice yourself wanting to be the “main character” in your own life right now?
How does seeing Jesus as central to creation, the church, and salvation reshape the way you view your everyday decisions?
Which resistance do you relate to most—comfort over purpose, scarcity over generosity, or blame over confession?
What might it look like this season to intentionally recenter your life around the beauty of Jesus rather than your own control?
