A Catholic Reflection Guide For The Chosen - Catholic-Link (2023)

What’s The Chosen?

The Chosenis the first multi-season television series about the life of Christ, as witnessed through the eyes of those He impacted. Directed by Dallas Jenkins (The Resurrection of Gavin Stone) and distributed by VidAngel Studios, The Chosen has grown to become the largest crowdfunded TV series of all time.

The Chosen | Official Trailer

No matter where you are at in your journey with Jesus Christ, this TV show is for you!

Imagine you could see the life of Jesus through the eyes of the people that walked on Earth with him – the disciples, Mary his mother, the Pharisees, the children, those He healed.

What would that look like? Now you can experience it!


The Chosenis the first-ever multi-season TV show about the life of Jesus. Created outside of the Hollywood system, The Chosen allows us to see Him through the eyes of those who knew him.

The Chosenstays faithful to the Gospels and at the same time tells us a story that is in between the lines of scripture. This T.V. series brings to life those people that are mentioned in the Bible, using the historical context of life at the time of Jesus. The series does not contradict scripture, but instead puts life around it so that we as viewers can imagine, “What was life like with Jesus.” It really could have been this way.

We believe that as you encounter the characters in The Choseneach week for the next eight weeks, you will build a new curiosity about the life of Jesus and those that followed him when he walked the earth.

How To Use This Reflection

This series, along with these reflection sheets and the Dive Deeper, has the potential to give you a better understanding of Jesus as God and man.

The accompanying short Bible verses on each reflection sheet will help you set the foundation. If you choose, read them first. Then, as you watch the episode, what was happening ‘in-between-the-lines” may bebrought to life in a deeper,entertaining and powerful way.

After watching each episode, allow the reflection questions to help you digest what you watched.

Our hope is that as you encounter the characters inThe Chosen, you are able to relate to them, leading you in a closer relationship withJesus, ourLordandSavior.

(Video) A catholic priest responds to Mary in The Chosen

The Chosen is a fresh look at the Gospels for those who have been reading the stories for years or for those who are just curious about who Jesus is and was.

To further the experience we’ve added some MORE reflections, nuggets of information and cultural tidbitsto help DEEPEN your experience.Whether it’s your first time watching this series or the 40th, we believe this section will definitely enhance your encounter.

The Chosen | Episode 1

Quick Summary:
In Episode One, we are introduced to Mary Magdalene, who we know very little from the Bible. We know she was cured of seven demons and not much else. However, she was there at Jesus’ crucifixion and his resurrection, so we can imagine she was a dedicated disciple.
Mary of Magdala may not be a Bible character you have personally empathized with before. You may also not have imagined what the normal life was like for Jesus’ disciples: their daily work, troubles, family.
That will all change after watching this episode!

Isaiah 43:1 John 3:1 Luke 8:1-3 Mark 16: 9


Cultural Tidbit

Jewish tax collectors were despised by Jewish people because they were seen as traitors to the Jewish people.

Mary was cured of “evil spirits” by Jesus (Luke 8:1-3). While the attempted exorcism from Nicodemus is a fictional story, there is evidence of Jewish exorcisms during this time. There is very little in the Old Testament about Jewish exorcisms, however King Saul suffered from an “evil spirit” and David was sent to play his harp to help Saul
​(1 Samuel 16:14-23).

Dive Deeper…

~It’s interesting to see how the religious and political environment looked in Jesus’ day. What kind of people did Jesus spend the least and most time with?

~Redeemed, called by name. How can we remind ourselves of this truth and live it out practically?

~Which characters stood out to you most? Which were most interesting? Most moving?

(Video) Evangelical and a Catholic walk into a basilica…

~Who was the more identifiable character for you: Nicodemus/Mary Magdalene?
OR was it Matthew Simon or Andrew? Why?

~How are the portrayals of Matthew and Peter’s characters different from your idea of their lives?

~ Did Simon Peter’s marriage surprise you? Why?

~ What did you think about the timing of the appearance of Jesus?
What were the filmmakers saying about Jesus’ intentionality and timing?

~ In what ways can you identify with Lilith/Mary Magdalene?

~What do you think an encounter with Jesus looks like? How can an encounter with Jesus change you?

~ What has Jesus delivered you from and for?

~ Who is someone in your life who needs to “come and see” Jesus?
Pray for that person, then go make the introduction.
​Trust Jesus to do the convincing.

The Chosen | Episode 2

Quick Summary:
How did Jesus worship God as a young adult Jewish man? Find out in this episode as we see Nicodemus pursue the woman who was miraculously healed after his failure. All of the Jews observe the weekly Shabbat dinner, which features a surprise visitor to Mary’s house!

Genesis 2:1-3 Deuteronomy 5:12-15 Proverbs 31:10-31
​Mark 3:16-18 John 1:46 Revelation 3:20

Dive Deeper...

~When a miracle happens, are you one to question every detail, or just enjoy and celebrate it?

~ We are to rest and honor family, our people and God on the Sabbath, to refresh our souls. Rest is a restorative gift. How or are you utilizing it? Could you be utilizing it more, if so how?

~Simon Peter and Andrew were in a tough position, what do you think about how they handled it?

~ How has your understanding of the role (and hatred toward) tax collectors been enhanced?

(Video) What the Chosen Gets WRONG (part 2)

~ Matthew said that his father said he has no son. How did this impact your view of him?

~Why do you think Jesus chose to go to the Shabbat he went to? Why didn’t he choose the Shabbat Nicodemus was at? What does this say about Jesus’ ministry?

~ Jesus invited Himself into Mary’s Shabbat observance. How does that resonate with you?

~ Who is the last person you invited into your home/life for the purpose of telling them about what God has done in your life?

The Chosen | Episode 3

QUICK SUMMARY
Begging the question- do you embrace a childlike faith? This beautiful episode of The Chosen introduces us to some children, who demonstrate for us how to listen to Jesus. The bold and simple faith of childhood is on display. They are naturally entranced by His kindness and gentleness with them; and they learn a great deal from His simple message of love and grace.

Deuteronomy 6:4-5 Isaiah 61:1-2,
Luke 4:18-19, Luke 18: 15-17 Mark 10:14 ​Matthew 6:9-15, Matthew 18:3-5

Cultural Tidbit

In this episode, Jesus is seen washing his feet before entering his bed. As a faithful Jewish man, Jesus followed the Jewish tradition of washing one’s feet before entering a home. Foot washing is found throughout the Old Testament and was a sign of hospitality, service and purification.

Dive Deeper…

~ Jesus’ responses to some of the children’s questions seemed evasive or incomplete. Why do you think that is? And how does this relate to His responses to our questions?

~ Jesus’ gift reminded Abigail that He did not come only for the wealthy.
How does that make you feel about Jesus?
What does that mean about how we as His disciples treat people?

~ Why do you think Jesus welcomed these children?
What does this say about how much He desires to welcome YOU?

~“Adults need the faith of children.”
​How can we intentionally make space for this in our faith and life?

(Video) Our Bible consultants discuss our most controversial moment

The Chosen | Episode 4

Quick Summary
When a man is trying to provide for his family, desperate times call for desperate measures. Simon Peter reaches his lowest and most desperate point before Jesus intrudes in the best way possible. After watching this episode, you will never see of themiracle of the fishthe same way.

Matthew 13:47-52, Matthew 4:18-22, Matthew 3:1-7, Luke 8:10, Luke 5:1-11, John 1:29-34

Dive Deeper…

~Sometimes we forget how intense the teachings of Jesus were. His parables and teachings were not sanitized, feel-good messages. What do you think the impact of this miracle would have meant in the context of Jesus’ time?

~ How did the weaving of Peter’s backstory (all creative license) make you feel about the development of Peter’s character?

~ The night of the Sea of Galilee amplified the encounter with Jesus in the morning. Have you ever experienced Jesus coming to you after a “dark night” in your life? Share if you feel comfortable doing so.

~ Andrew met Jesus through John the Baptist and is confident He’s the Messiah. What do you think about his longing for Simon Peter to know Jesus?
Who is your “Peter?”

~ What was the role of John the Baptist? (Luke 1:8-17, Luke 3:1-9)
How is this also our role as the church?

~ Jesus told the fisher brothers that they would become fishers of men. What did that mean for them? Is that our mission as well? Why or why not?

Find More Dive Deeper Questions For Season One HERE.

Catholic-Link would like to thank Jodi Stauffer and the E-Team at St. Leo‘s (Grand Island, Nebraska) for allowing us to publish and share this guide to The Chosen series. They were inspired by the work of Northstar Church and Down The Hobbit Hole Blog to create a Catholic guide for the show. We look forward to what they have in store for Season Two!

Check Out Catholic-Link’s Interview With Jonathon Roumie!

A Catholic Reflection Guide For The Chosen - Catholic-Link (1)
(Video) Jonathan Roumie on Being a Born Again Catholic

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FAQs

What is the Catholic commentary on The Chosen? ›

Catholic Commentary on The Chosen aims to help Catholics actively engage with the immensely popular TV series depicting the life of Christ. In this episode, Dr. Michael Barber and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger sit down to discuss "The Messengers," the special Christmas episode from The Chosen.

Is The Chosen series biblically accurate? ›

The Chosen stays true to the details that are in the text of the New Testament. Each episode takes artistic license to fill in the many blanks where the text does not go into detail, but this artistic license is all feasible considering the details that are provided.

Is Jonathan Roumie Catholic? ›

His father is Egyptian, his paternal grandfather was born in Syria, and his mother is Irish. Roumie is a practicing Catholic; while he was baptized in the Greek Orthodox Church, Roumie converted to Catholicism after moving from New York to its suburbs. He holds a degree in film from the School of Visual Arts.

Is The Chosen approved by the Church? ›

“The Chosen” is not endorsed by or affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but many members of the Church are embracing its messages.

What is the main message in The Chosen? ›

The main theme in the novel is Danny's conflict between his desire for secular knowledge and his obligations to his father, Rabbi Saunders, and his father's followers. Reuven Malter is the son of Modern Orthodox Jew and teacher David Malter.

What do the fish represent in The Chosen? ›

Taken straight from the iconic opening sequence of The Chosen, the design shows 13 teal-colored fish swimming in the opposite direction of a school of gray fish. This of course represents Jesus and the twelve disciples moving against the cultural norms, just as we're called to do.

What religion is The Chosen affiliated with? ›

“As I've said, many, many times, the content of the show has zero influence or input from any formal faith tradition or church. None.” However, Latter-day Saints are involved with the show. “The Chosen” is distributed by Angel Studios, which was co-founded by Latter-day Saint brothers Neal and Jeffrey Harmon.

What denomination is behind The Chosen? ›

“The Chosen” is distributed by partner Angel Studios, a streaming video company that was co-founded by brothers Neal and Jeffrey Harmon, who are Latter-day Saints.

Is The Chosen close to the Bible? ›

Although The Chosen draws directly from the New Testament, it's become a global phenomenon largely because it doesn't treat the Gospels as, uh, gospel.

Is Michael McConaughey a Catholic? ›

A Christian, McConaughey often speaks publicly about his faith. He attends a non-denominational church.

Is VidAngel a Mormon company? ›

Then of course, VidAngel's owned by 8,000 Americans of all different faiths. But the two founders, we are faithful members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Is Denzel a Catholic? ›

He is Pentecostal Evangelical Christian and a member of the West Angeles Church of God in Christ (Church of God in Christ), located in Los Angeles. He has considered becoming a preacher. He stated in 1999, "A part of me still says, 'Maybe, Denzel, you're supposed to preach.

Does The Chosen show the crucifixion? ›

Roumie says the scene is crucial in setting the tone for "The Chosen," which will screen its season 3 finale in 2,000 theaters Feb. 2 and 3. Season 6 will feature Jesus' crucifixion after Pontius Pilate washes his hands of capital punishment to appease the crowds, despite his wife's pleas.

Why did The Chosen leave Utah? ›

“We had pretty much decided on Malta, Bulgaria, or Utah, and we found out Utah was a no, and that was because of COVID,” Eves said. At that point, Dallas Jenkins, the writer and director, went back to the farm where he'd filmed the short that inspired The Chosen and prayed they'd be able to keep going.

Do Mormons believe Jesus is God? ›

Like most Christians, Mormons believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Creator of the World.

Why was Mary called Lilith in The Chosen? ›

The Twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; This is why we first hear Mary Magdalene called Lilith—to characterize that she was possessed of evil spirits.

What is the main conflict in The Chosen? ›

major conflict Danny's struggle between his family and religious obligations, and his desire to become a psychologist is the novel's central conflict. Reuven experiences this conflict indirectly—as he helps Danny struggle through it, he struggles to understand it himself.

Why is the The Chosen called that? ›

The novel's title refers to the idea that the Jews are God's chosen people and therefore hold special privileges and responsibilities. Both Danny and Reuven fulfill their duty by studying Jewish liturgy, and they derive great pleasure from Jewish traditions.

What is the red quarter in The Chosen? ›

The Red Quarter is a place for prostitutes and illicit activities, though the actions of others there is never described. Jesus, however, heals Mary of her demons and openly welcomes Mary, as well as the woman who protected her and others from that area, into his fellowship.

Where is Lilith in the Bible? ›

The Bible mentions the Lilith only once, as a dweller in waste places (Isaiah 34:14), but the characterization of the Lilith or the lili (in the singular or plural) as a seducer or slayer of children has a long pre-history in ancient Babylonian religion.

What is the name of the Jesus fish? ›

The Ichthys symbol (or "Jesus fish") is a sign typically used to proclaim an affiliation with or affinity for Christianity. The fish was originally adopted by early Christians as a secret symbol, but the many variations known today first appeared in the 1980s.

Is The Chosen endorsed by the LDS church? ›

Pastors' note: We are not endorsing or promoting The Chosen, but we aren't discouraging it either. Since many of you are watching it and enjoying it, we are encouraging you to do that with discernment.

Is The Chosen made by BYU? ›

"We want 'The Chosen' to get into as many homes as possible, and BYUtv does that as well as anyone," said Dallas Jenkins, creator of "The Chosen." "When I first made a short Nativity film at my friend's farm in Illinois, I had no idea it would lead to 'The Chosen' and its global response.

Who is God's chosen nation? ›

When you hear the phrase, “God's chosen nation,” what comes to mind? If you've read the story of the Hebrew Bible (or Old Testament, you know that it tells the story of God's interaction with one particular nation, Israel. The Hebrew Scriptures are full of language about Israel's special status as God's chosen nation.

Is there a Bible study that goes with The Chosen? ›

The Chosen: An Interactive Bible Study is the official companion to season 1 of The Chosen, the groundbreaking television series. It parallels each episode, connecting readers to the Bible in a brand new way.

What Gospel is The Chosen based on? ›

The life of Jesus

Why is The Chosen so good? ›

To cut straight to the point: The Chosen is far and away the best on-screen depiction of the life of Christ-either mini-series or movie. The writing and character development are exceptional. It's as captivating as The Passion, yet in so many ways more human and relatable.

What does the bridle mean in The Chosen? ›

Joseph explains the bridle is a reminder of how God delivered their ancestors from Egypt (it was the only possession they brought with them) and a token of God's future deliverance. Jesus brings the bridle with him and so it's possible that he will use it on the donkey he rides into Jerusalem on the way to the cross.

Is Jim Carrey Roman Catholic? ›

Carrey was born in the Toronto suburb of Newmarket, Ontario, Canada, to Kathleen (née Oram), a homemaker, and Percy Carrey, a musician and accountant. He was raised a Roman Catholic and has three older siblings, John, Patricia, and Rita.

Is Kim Kardashian Catholic? ›

Religion. Kim Kardashian is a Christian and has described herself as "really religious". She was educated in Christian schools of both the Presbyterian and Roman Catholic traditions.

Is Sylvester Stallone a Catholic? ›

He was baptized Catholic.

Why did Disney sue VidAngel? ›

Disney, Twentieth Century Fox and other movie studios sued VidAngel for copyright infringement and violating DMCA section 1201 for VidAngel's service, which decrypts DVDs and filters “objectionable” content from movies and TV shows, and streams the programs to its customers.

What company does the Mormon Church own? ›

The Deseret Management Corporation (DMC) (/ˌdɛzəˈrɛt/ ( listen)) is a global operating company, managing for-profit entities affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church).

What media does Mormon Church own? ›

Bonneville International Corporation is a media and broadcasting company, wholly owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) through its for-profit arm, Deseret Management Corporation. It began as a radio and TV network in the Triad Center Broadcast House in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Is Ray Liotta a Catholic? ›

Liotta grew up in a Roman Catholic household in Union, New Jersey, although his family was not especially religious. They attended church and he received first communion and was confirmed, but the family did not pray much.

Is Bruce Willis a Catholic? ›

Religious views

Willis was a Lutheran, but no longer practices. In a July 1998 interview with George magazine, he stated: "Organized religions in general, in my opinion, are dying forms.

Is Miley Cyrus Catholic? ›

Raised as a Christian she was baptized in a Southern Baptist church before moving to Hollywood in 2005.

Is the Judas in The Chosen Iscariot? ›

The Chosen (TV Series 2017– ) - Luke Dimyan as Judas Iscariot, Judus Iscariot - IMDb.

Who is Jesus in The Chosen? ›

The Chosen

Why is Eden sad in The Chosen? ›

Peter and Eden are both struggling with depression, anger and doubt because of the miscarriage.

Why is The Chosen moving to Texas? ›

The Chosen originally looked into Texas because two producers of the show were from the area, and the physical terrain, welcoming environment and costs fit what the show was looking for, Eves said. “I think it's the perfect fit for us here.

Where is The Chosen moving to in Texas? ›

During the height of the pandemic, The Chosen forged a partnership with The Salvation Army's Camp Hoblitzelle, a 1,200 – acre camp and meeting facility located in Midlothian, TX. The Chosen signed a multi-year lease with Camp Hoblitzelle on 900 acres of the property.

Are Mormons Christians? ›

Mormons consider themselves Christians, but many Christians don't recognize Mormonism as an official denomination. Mormons believe in the crucifixion, resurrection and divinity of Jesus Christ. Followers claim that God sent more prophets after Jesus's death.

Who do Mormons say Jesus was? ›

We believe Jesus is the Son of God, the Only Begotten Son in the flesh (John 3:16). We accept the prophetic declarations in the Old Testament that refer directly and powerfully to the coming of the Messiah, the Savior of all humankind. We believe that Jesus of Nazareth was and is the fulfillment of those prophecies.

What religion is most similar to Mormonism? ›

Islam and Mormonism have been compared to one another since the earliest origins of the latter in the nineteenth century, sometimes by detractors of one or both religions, but also at least once by Joseph Smith, founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, himself.

Why can't Mormons drink coffee? ›

The Word of Wisdom is a section of the Doctrine and Covenants, one of the church's four volumes of scripture. Mormons believe God revealed in 1833 the foods and substances that are good and bad for people to consume. Liquor, tobacco, tea and coffee were prohibited.

What religious group is behind The Chosen? ›

“The Chosen” is distributed by partner Angel Studios, a streaming video company that was co-founded by brothers Neal and Jeffrey Harmon, who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Angel Studios raised millions through crowdfunding to fund the multi-season series about the life of Jesus Christ.

What religion are the cast of The Chosen? ›

What are the religions of The Chosen cast? Individuals working on the show come from various faith backgrounds, Eves said. There are Catholics, Presbyterians, Evangelicals, Baptists, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and even non-believers involved in the show.

Who is the Roman following Simon in The Chosen? ›

In The Chosen, Atticus Aemilius Pulcher is introduced in Season 2, Episode 4 as a Roman investigator attempting to combat extremist Jewish zealots. After tracking down Simon the Zealot, he takes interest in the disciples of Jesus and begins to follow them.

What the Bible says about The Chosen? ›

“For you [Israel] are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession” (Deuteronomy 7:6).

Why is The Chosen called The Chosen? ›

The novel's title refers to the idea that the Jews are God's chosen people and therefore hold special privileges and responsibilities. Both Danny and Reuven fulfill their duty by studying Jewish liturgy, and they derive great pleasure from Jewish traditions.

Do Mormons believe Jesus is the Son of God? ›

Latter-day Saints are Christians on the basis of our doctrine, our defined relationship to Christ, our patterns of worship and our way of life. What Do We Believe About Christ? We believe Jesus is the Son of God, the Only Begotten Son in the flesh (John 3:16).

Who from The Chosen is Catholic? ›

Jonathan Roumie is a devout Catholic actor best known for his role playing Jesus in the hit series “The Chosen.” The 48-year-old's popularity has spread like wildfire as the show has more than 450 million views worldwide.

What nationalities are the cast of The Chosen? ›

His followers include a mix of ethnicities: Tamar, an Ethiopian woman (Amber Shana Williams); the quasi-autistic disciple Matthew, played by Paras Patel, a South Asian, and Israeli-born actor Shahar Isaac, who plays the disciple Peter.

What does it mean to be called chosen? ›

: selected or marked for favor or special privilege.

Why were we chosen by God? ›

In the Bible days, God Almighty made a choice among all the people He created and set them apart to execute the important purposes of His providence. That they were chosen to this high destiny was not on account of their extraordinary merits, but because God wanted to illustrate His glory to all mankind through them.

What does it mean to be called the chosen one? ›

Noun. the chosen one (uncountable) (authorship, informal) A character in a narrative work who is predestined to save the world or do some other grand and heroic accomplishment; one who is predestined to become the one quotations ▼

Videos

1. I'm Not Watching The Chosen
(Brian Holdsworth)
2. The Chosen Video Study Guide, Season 1, Episode 1
(cfallsnaz)
3. What the Chosen Gets Right (Part 1)
(Breaking In The Habit)
4. Catholic Priests React to "The Chosen"
(Upon Friar Review)
5. Catholic Commentary on The Chosen | Season 1 Episode 1
(Augustine Institute - Catholic Church Explained)
6. Jordan Peterson on Alcoholics Anonymous
(Theo Von Clips)

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