Dr. Jordan B. Peterson Explores Biblical Narratives and the Power of Personal Sacrifice at the President’s Speaker Series

On Monday, April 7, 2025, Pepperdine president Jim Gash (JD ’93) welcomed best-selling author, clinical psychologist, and Professor Emeritus at the University of Toronto Dr. Jordan B. Peterson to discuss his latest book, We Who Wrestle with God, and his reflections on the transcendent power of biblical stories as part of the President's Speaker Series. A prominent public figure and host of the popular podcast The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast, Dr. Peterson’s discussion, which drew 2,600 attendees to Firestone Fieldhouse on the Malibu campus, examined biblical narratives and explored how these stories have shaped human behavior, influence society, and deepen our understanding of ourselves.

Dr. Jordan B. Peterson

“At Pepperdine, we believe in the value of reading good books—the power of immersing ourselves in great stories,” said President Gash. “Our belief in the value of great stories is part of the reason I am so pleased to welcome our guest today—a guest who, for years, has been helping millions of people around the globe find purpose and meaning in their lives through unlocking the transformative power of some of the greatest stories ever written.”

President Gash welcomed Dr. Peterson to the stage to enthusiastic applause before Dr. Peterson launched into a discussion exploring how biblical narratives reflect life’s journey. He began by referencing the story of Jacob and Esau as an example of “what happens if you found your life on the desire for power.” Outlining the narrative of brotherly betrayal, Dr. Peterson emphasized the importance of keeping one’s word and the consequences of selfish ambition. He also commented on the story of Abraham, who was called to operate outside his comfort zone in “a pattern of faithful and courageous adventure.”

“We learn on the edge of challenge,” Dr. Peterson said. “You want to be on the edge that transforms you, and that’s the edge of adventure.”

President Jim Gash and Dr. Peterson

Dr. Peterson then explored the human longing for respect, influence, and fulfillment and emphasized that sacrifice plays a central role in achieving those goals. He spoke about personal transformation as a kind of "upward" movement in life—a path that often begins by recognizing that much of our suffering may stem from our own mistakes and poor choices. This recognition, he explained, is the first step toward change—by accepting responsibility, we open the door to growth and the possibility of rising out of our personal hells. Choosing to change, according to Dr. Peterson, means letting go of the destructive behaviors that led to our downfall.

“The foundational principle that is stabilizing the world, and maybe the cosmos itself, is the principle of upward striving and voluntary self-sacrifice,” he stated. “It’s a moral and spiritual act—a commitment to aim upward, toward improvement, redemption, and ultimately, toward God, who represents the infinite ideal at the peak of that ascent.”

President Gash then joined Dr. Peterson on stage for a question-and-answer session, which began with a brief discussion of Dr. Peterson’s latest book, We Who Wrestle With God. Dr. Peterson shared he was inspired by his early fascination with malevolence and death, particularly in totalitarian regimes, which sparked a lifelong quest to understand its roots. Initially drawn to politics and law, Dr. Peterson shifted his focus to psychology upon realizing that societal horrors stemmed not just from political systems but from moral failings. Pulling from his study of biblical narratives, he emphasized the importance of voluntarily facing suffering and truth, believing that even a few courageous individuals can uphold society's moral fabric.

Students at the President's Speaker Series

President Gash then shared testimonials submitted by Pepperdine students who reflected on the positive impact Dr. Peterson’s lectures and teachings have had on their personal growth. 

One student wrote, “Dr. Peterson was my gateway to Christianity during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, I was feeling emotionally drawn to religion but was still intellectually resistant. I stumbled upon Dr. Peterson's YouTube lectures and it helped me understand the psychological value of getting my life in order and accepting personal responsibility. I discovered that taking up the cross was the most sound advice for living a fulfilled life.”

Additionally, President Gash expressed that students want to know how to begin their journey toward personal and spiritual growth, and asked Dr. Peterson what he recommends they do to begin. According to Dr. Peterson, the journey should start small—getting your immediate environment in order will inspire a manageable beginning. He believes the act of taking responsibility can initiate a powerful upward transformation and by confronting challenges willingly, you can access deeper strength and transformation.

“To learn means to move forward adventurously, to become more resilient and more skilled,” Dr. Peterson explained. “No matter what opposes you, the strength and force that abides within you by facing and tackling obstacles will help you to withstand any challenge.”

Dr. Peterson receives 2025 President’s Award for Excellence in Freedom 

President Gash closed the event by presenting Dr. Peterson with the 2025 President’s Award for Excellence in Freedom, followed by a standing ovation.

Inspired by his profound insights, Seaver College student Whitney Powell remarked on Dr. Peterson’s powerful impact on the crowd and left the event with deep admiration for his wisdom and commanding presence.  

“During the event, President Gash shared messages from students who were led to accept Christ after discovering Dr. Peterson’s teachings,” shared Powell. “It’s inspiring to see how his work is impacting people. He has a unique way of connecting with people while challenging them to think outside of the box. You can tell he has a heart to help others, and I think that’s why so many are drawn to him.”

For full broadcasts of President Gash and Dr. Peterson’s conversation and previous events in the series, visit PeppLearn—Pepperdine’s newest resource providing users with live and on-demand content.