Matthew's Journey: 'Accepted as You Are' (Part 1)নমুনা

Unconditional Love

Matthew’s transformation wasn’t just about finding a place among the disciples—it was about experiencing the deep, unconditional love of Jesus. During season 2 of The Chosen, we see how Matthew begins to flourish within the group. The shift happens because he experiences love—first from Jesus, and then from his fellow disciples, like Phillip.

Jesus teaches us the essence of love: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13). Romans 5:8 reminds us that Jesus loved us even while we were still sinners. We don’t have to prove ourselves to Him—His love comes freely, without condition. And because we are loved in this way, we are called to love others the same way.

But let’s be honest—loving others isn’t always easy. We struggle with misunderstandings, past wounds, and differences that make true connection oftentimes difficult. Matthew likely felt the weight of rejection for years, and perhaps some of the disciples still wrestled with their own judgments about him. Yet, Jesus’ love broke through those barriers and gave all of them a safe space to practice love and forgiveness. What would it look like for us to love like that? To offer kindness before it is earned, to choose grace over judgment, and to see people for who they can be rather than who they were?

God’s love is not just an idea—it is meant to be experienced, carried out and shared. When we allow His love to transform us, it changes the way we see ourselves and those around us. Just as Matthew found belonging through the love of Jesus, we are invited into a love that redefines our identity. The more we embrace this truth, the more we can become vessels of that same love in the world.

Have you ever experienced a love that didn’t have to be earned? What would it mean to know that God loves you this way—freely and unconditionally? And how might that kind of love change the way you see yourself and others?