the Chosen
What's The Chosen?
The Chosen is 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.
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 Chosen is 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 Chosen stays 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 at St. Leo’s Church believe that as you encounter of the characters in
The Chosen each 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.
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 be brought 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 our church encounters the characters in The Chosen, we are able to relate to the them, leading us in a closer relationship with Jesus, our Lord and Savior.
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.
We hope the discussion guide and additional nuggets and more reflection questions will prove useful for you. It can be used in a small group setting, a Bible study setting, for personal journaling or as a family discussion guide! If any of this awesome event, series or reflections have been beneficial, please consider sharing it on share it on social media, you never know who you may lead to encounter our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. #StLeosTheChosen
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 Chosen is 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 Chosen stays 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 at St. Leo’s Church believe that as you encounter of the characters in
The Chosen each 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.
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 be brought 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 our church encounters the characters in The Chosen, we are able to relate to the them, leading us in a closer relationship with Jesus, our Lord and Savior.
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.
We hope the discussion guide and additional nuggets and more reflection questions will prove useful for you. It can be used in a small group setting, a Bible study setting, for personal journaling or as a family discussion guide! If any of this awesome event, series or reflections have been beneficial, please consider sharing it on share it on social media, you never know who you may lead to encounter our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. #StLeosTheChosen
The button below will take you to the Reflection guide and a link to download if wanted
To further the experience we've added some more reflections, nuggets of information and cultural tidbits to help DEEPEN the experience.
Whether its your first time watching the series or 40th, we believe this section will definitely enhance your encounter.
Whether its your first time watching the series or 40th, we believe this section will definitely enhance your encounter.
~~Know that you are not expected nor is it needed that you answer, reflect or discuss
ALL of the reflection questions offered, they are here to help enhance not meant as
something that has to be completed.
ALL of the reflection questions offered, they are here to help enhance not meant as
something that has to be completed.
Episode One
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
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).
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?
~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.
~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?
~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.
EpiSode two
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
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?
~ 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?
~ 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?
~ 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?
Episode Three
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
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.
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?
~ 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?
Episode Four
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 the miracle of the fish the 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
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 the miracle of the fish the 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?
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?
Episode Five
Quick Summary
In this beautiful, happy episode, we first see Jesus in a definitive moment of His
childhood, which provides us important clues to His career ahead. Fast-forward to
adulthood: He has begun to call followers, but at first they're confused. Yes, they
believe; what do they do next?
Nicodemus interrogates John the Baptizer while Jesus and his students make their
way to a wedding celebration in Cana. During the ceremony, Jesus‘ mother Mary makes a special request.
1 Kings 19:19-21 Proverbs 30:4
John 2:1-12 Luke 2:41-52
In this beautiful, happy episode, we first see Jesus in a definitive moment of His
childhood, which provides us important clues to His career ahead. Fast-forward to
adulthood: He has begun to call followers, but at first they're confused. Yes, they
believe; what do they do next?
Nicodemus interrogates John the Baptizer while Jesus and his students make their
way to a wedding celebration in Cana. During the ceremony, Jesus‘ mother Mary makes a special request.
1 Kings 19:19-21 Proverbs 30:4
John 2:1-12 Luke 2:41-52
Cultural tidbit
“Blessed are You O Lord, our God, King of the Universe,
who creates the fruit of the vine” is a traditional Jewish blessing.
The chuppah is a canopy beneath the Jewish marriage ceremonies are conducted.
The four openings symbolize hospitality to one’s guests and the new home of the couple
“Blessed are You O Lord, our God, King of the Universe,
who creates the fruit of the vine” is a traditional Jewish blessing.
The chuppah is a canopy beneath the Jewish marriage ceremonies are conducted.
The four openings symbolize hospitality to one’s guests and the new home of the couple
Dive deeper...
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~What did it feel like to witness Jesus as you would be witness friends or normal people socializing and enjoying each others company?
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~During the wedding feast, the writers help us imagine what the disciples might have discussed about Jesus. In the scene Peter states, “I do not know why he picked me,” and dismisses himself as unqualified to follow Jesus. How have you been like Peter in this scene?
~ Have you ever felt like Simon Peter or Andrew when they said the following?
If comfortable please share about it.
~ Have you ever felt like Simon Peter or Andrew when they said the following?
If comfortable please share about it.
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Simon says to Andrew, on their way with Jesus and other disciples to the wedding of Jesus’s childhood friend in Cana: “I don’t want to let Him down." Andrew responds, “I don’t want to do it wrong.”
~How have you reacted when someone has told you they encountered Jesus? |
Episode six
In this episode of the greatest adventure in history, Jesus' followers are asking questions, learning about their charismatic rabbi, slowly gaining faith, and witnessing some very incredible things! Their excitement is growing; people are paying attention. Jesus heals and urges people to remember to be vigilant with their faith, remembering that no one person is greater than any other.
We are all God’s beloved creation.
While the following of Jesus is growing, His enemies are also growing in number.
Matthew 8:1-4, Matthew 5:14-6 Luke 12: 36-48, Luke 18:1-14 Mark 2:1-12
We are all God’s beloved creation.
While the following of Jesus is growing, His enemies are also growing in number.
Matthew 8:1-4, Matthew 5:14-6 Luke 12: 36-48, Luke 18:1-14 Mark 2:1-12
Dive Deeper...
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~ In order to take such extreme measures, what must the four men, who carried their friend, have believed about Jesus?
~ Let’s talk about Leprosy. Leprosy is one of the major diseases in the time of Jesus. It was the sickness that renders a person no longer worthy of dignity, love or community. Are there any “like” situations in our society today that would cause a person to no longer have dignity? How do you think Jesus would treat them? |
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Episode Seven
Quick Summary
“Invitations,” is quite possibly the most beloved episode of the series, which includes the portrayal of the most famous chapter in the Bible, John 3, the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus.
This episode starts with a 1300 year flashback to a little known story of Moses and the Israelites during the exodus.
Jesus continues to call His followers, forging a core group of people He will prepare for fantastic works ahead. These disciples have various backgrounds, and many personal issues; but they are prepared to follow their kind, brilliant, miracle-working rabbi anywhere He goes.
Jesus talks to Nicodemus.
#GetUsedToDifferent
Psalm 2:11-12 Numbers 21:4-9
Matthew 9:9-13 John 3:1-21
“Invitations,” is quite possibly the most beloved episode of the series, which includes the portrayal of the most famous chapter in the Bible, John 3, the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus.
This episode starts with a 1300 year flashback to a little known story of Moses and the Israelites during the exodus.
Jesus continues to call His followers, forging a core group of people He will prepare for fantastic works ahead. These disciples have various backgrounds, and many personal issues; but they are prepared to follow their kind, brilliant, miracle-working rabbi anywhere He goes.
Jesus talks to Nicodemus.
#GetUsedToDifferent
Psalm 2:11-12 Numbers 21:4-9
Matthew 9:9-13 John 3:1-21
Dive Deeper...
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~ Nicodemus had some struggles within this episode, how do you relate to Nicodemus. If you feel compelled to share please do so.
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~ Simon Peter was questioning Jesus' choice in picking Matthew,
Simon says to Jesus, “Whoa, do You have any idea what this guy has done? I don’t get it.” Jesus answers, “You didn’t get it when I chose you, either.” Simon: “But this is different.” Jesus: “Get used to different.” Have you ever had a similar conversation with God? |
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~ If you feel like sharing- what is your story of encountering Jesus/God/the Holy Spirit? Do you feel you have a relationship with anyone in the Trinity?
Episode Eight
Quick Summary
This finale episode from Season 1 also begins with a flashback, this time to Jacob's Well.
Fast forward to Simon's house for a miraculous visit.
Then Jesus and his students leave Capernaum while under pressure from religious and Roman authorities. The apostles drawing together, still confused, yet anxious for the Kingdom to come. Jesus makes a surprise stop at Jacob's Well for an important encounter. And with this encounter, His "career" finally becomes public.
Genesis 33:18-20, Genesis 16 Hosea 6:6 Daniel 7:13-14
Matthew 9:9-13, 8:14-15 Mark 2:13-17 Luke 4:38-39 John 4:1-42
This finale episode from Season 1 also begins with a flashback, this time to Jacob's Well.
Fast forward to Simon's house for a miraculous visit.
Then Jesus and his students leave Capernaum while under pressure from religious and Roman authorities. The apostles drawing together, still confused, yet anxious for the Kingdom to come. Jesus makes a surprise stop at Jacob's Well for an important encounter. And with this encounter, His "career" finally becomes public.
Genesis 33:18-20, Genesis 16 Hosea 6:6 Daniel 7:13-14
Matthew 9:9-13, 8:14-15 Mark 2:13-17 Luke 4:38-39 John 4:1-42
Cultural Tidbit
Samaritan women were regarded by Jews as ritually impure, and therefore Jews were forbidden to drink from any vessel they had handled.
Samaritan women were regarded by Jews as ritually impure, and therefore Jews were forbidden to drink from any vessel they had handled.
Dive Deeper...
~ Who were the first that were told about Jesus’ birth?
Who did He first tell about His ministry?
What were their social status’?
Who did He first tell about His ministry?
What were their social status’?
🎵“Throw Me like a stone in the water; watch the mud rise up.
Dress Me like a Lamb for the slaughter, pour Me in Your Cup.
Should have known we’d bring trouble—trouble gonna find you here.
Trouble, trouble, trouble.”🎵
Dress Me like a Lamb for the slaughter, pour Me in Your Cup.
Should have known we’d bring trouble—trouble gonna find you here.
Trouble, trouble, trouble.”🎵
