The need to be first

After the resurrection, Simon Peter runs to the tomb, eager to see if Jesus is truly risen—but he’s not the first to arrive. The writer of the gospel of John specifically mentions another disciple getting there faster. A subtle sneer at Simon Peter's competitive streak?

Simon Peter wants to be first—first to speak, first to act, first to prove his loyalty. The need to prove himself runs deep. And we can relate, can’t we? In Luke 9, the disciples argue about who’s the greatest. It’s not hard to imagine Simon Peter leading the charge. He’s driven—by love, yes, but also by comparison. Sometimes our passion for God gets tangled up with pride.

In The Chosen, Simon Peter’s competitive spirit often puts him at odds with others—especially when he feels threatened. Whether it’s Matthew’s inclusion or John’s insight, Simon Peter bristles. He longs to stand out. But Jesus doesn’t shame him for this desire; He redirects it. When the disciples argue about greatness, Jesus points to a child—dependent, humble, unnoticed—and says, “Be like this.”

That’s the twist. Jesus doesn’t condemn the longing to matter; He just redefines how we do. It’s not about being first to the tomb or loudest in the group. It’s about trust, humility, and love. Simon Peter didn’t win the race that day—but he still met the risen Jesus. He was still called, still loved, still sent.

So what about you? Are you running to prove yourself? Are you measuring your worth by being the fastest, the smartest, the most spiritual? It’s exhausting, isn’t it? And Jesus knows that. He invites you to a different kind of greatness—one not built on rivalry, but surrender. Not on standing out, but kneeling low. Can you lay down your race today?

Even if you feel like you’re always arriving second—or last—Jesus still meets you there. The empty tomb wasn’t a prize for the first one in. It was the beginning of a whole new story. Simon Peter’s transformation didn’t start with victory. It started with being seen, loved, and re-commissioned. And that same invitation is open to you, right now.

P.S. Are you enjoying this journey with Simon Peter? Your own character might even resemble his. Care to find out? Take our The Chosen 'Test of Character' and journey for a while with the character you have the most in common with.