Welcome back, Beautiful People! 

During the break, my sister and I revisited the first season of The Chosen. It was a captivating experience, particularly the subtle biblical truths I had overlooked in my initial viewing of the dramatic portrayal of Christ and His chosen 12. The character development of Nicodemus and Peter was particularly fascinating. Nicodemus, a respected teacher, is trapped in a world of traditional beliefs that limit the grandeur of God's plan for salvation. He is increasingly frustrated by the narrow-mindedness in his culture and among his peers. He is on a quest for truth. Peter's story revolves around his self-reliance and attempts to keep God away from his heart and problems. He is in denial. Christ's miracles attract the inquisitive pharisee and the wayward fishermen as the season unfolds. God's grace is accessible to the learned and the uneducated. What is intriguing is their response to Christ's call to discipleship. When Peter is called, he reacts, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man" (Luke 5:8, NIV)! 

Peter is acutely aware of his spiritual state, and his self-reliance is tested. Before his calling, Christ's instruction to cast his net on the other side challenges Peter to place his faith in someone other than himself. Christ beckons Peter to trust in His provision and forgiveness. In contrast, Nicodemus is not granted a personal miracle but is taught about God's incredible love and offered a chance at a new life. Christ invites Nicodemus to have faith in the new life that springs from God's love. 

Both men are called to exercise faith in Christ as a precursor to truth and life. Jesus is making a way for these men, and Jesus is making a way for you, too. Tim Keller once said, "It is not the strength of your faith but the object of your faith that actually saves you. Strong faith in a weak branch is fatally inferior to weak faith in a strong branch." Searching for truth without committing to it leads to disappointment and, ultimately, a misalignment with reality. A lack of self-denial hardens our hearts towards repentance and renewal. We can learn something from both Nicodemus and Peter. Jesus is truth, and if He calls us to repent, that call leads us to newness in life. To know Christ is to know truth and freedom. His truth will expand your "God box" and bring clarity to the disposition of your soul. Unlike Peter, don't ask Him to leave. Jesus is not afraid of your sin. Lean into His love and live in His truth as you continually depend on His goodness and grace.