The Greatest Love Story
“Have you heard about a TV show called The Chosen?”
I feel like this question has become my go-to conversation starter over the last few months. Several months ago, I had a few ministry colleagues briefly mention the show to me, and I had seen a few ads on social media about it (#bingeJesus was actually trending). So I decided to check it out for myself, and in short, the show completely changed my prayer life and my relationship with Jesus.
VidAngel Studios, the production company for the show, points out that The Chosen is the first ever multi-season TV show about the life of Jesus. Viewers get a chance to learn more about Jesus through the eyes of those who encountered him, who knew him, who followed him, who lived with him, and who loved him. And I must say, as many times as I’ve read and heard the Gospel stories throughout my life, there is just something about this show that brings the greatest love story of all time to life in a new and beautiful way. While the production company provides the disclaimer that backstories, characters, and dialogue have been added, they share that “all biblical and historical context and any artistic imagination are designed to support the truth and intention of the Scriptures.” They also encourage all viewers to read the Gospels themselves, hoping that the show catalyzes the desire to learn more!
Whenever I recommend the show to someone, I encourage them to enter into it as if it is a prayer experience. Don’t just watch this show as you would watch any other show! For one, make sure you watch it with full, undivided attention. Sometimes when I binge something on Netflix, I’m also simultaneously looking at something on my phone or my computer (or sometimes both!). I encourage you to put away all of the distractions so you can really enter in and get the most out of the show. What do you see? What do you hear? What do you notice about how certain characters interact with each other? Do you see yourself as one of the characters? Have you ever heard Jesus say to you what he’s saying to others? What might God be trying to communicate to YOU through this episode? Allow each episode to initiate a one on one conversation with our Lord.
Over the next few weeks, I’ll be writing some reflections and discussion questions for each episode. I hope you’ll join me for this spiritual journey and pray that you’ll be open to hear what God might be wanting to communicate to you through this show! :)
#bingeJesus
To watch all eight episodes of season one for free, download The Chosen app on Apple or Android mobile devices.
If you end up loving the show and want to “pay it forward” to help fund season two, you can either make a donation in the app and/or purchase the season one DVD set for yourself or friends/family.
