Question:
I’m not sure if any of you have watched “The Chosen” or heard about it, but it’s a show about Jesus’ life which is great. There has been however some speculation that what is in the show is not entirely accurate whether it’s what the characters say or do. As you know there are not a lot of shows or movies that revolve around Jesus or the word of God. I just wondered if any of you have watched the show in any capacity and would like to know if it’s “okay” to watch. I appreciate all that y’all do. Thanks!
Answer:
Great to hear from you and thanks for listening, it’s a blessing to hear that our podcast has been of help.
Regarding The Chosen, I have seen a few episodes and Pastor Strobel has seen a few, my wife has seen them all, not sure about Pastor Steve or Pastor Matt. Whether it’s something like the Chosen, a Commentary, a live production, preaching/teaching online or in person, I try to filter everything through the Bible. An old expression I heard once that I think is applicable for this is, “Eat The Meat and Spit Out The Bones “, meaning take from it what you can use that matches up with the Bible and recognize the rest for what it is. Of course the more familiar you are with the Bible ( with the Holy Spirit’s help) the easier this is.
John 5:39 KJV
[39] Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.
Acts 17:11 KJV
[11] These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
It is certainly possible to enjoy productions like the Chosen realizing they are not scripture. The actor playing Jesus is an actor, presenting Matthew as Autistic, is not from the Bible, things like the many interactions between Peter and his wife that are portrayed are not in scripture, the emphasis on Mary is not in the Bible, and many other things. These are easily recognized as things added when you have a working knowledge of the scriptures. Bottom line, I think you can still enjoy the Chosen but just recognize that it is not Bible but based on the Bible with some changes, recognize it as entertainment (free of swearing, sex, etc) and enjoy it for what it is.
Pastor Strobel would just add again, “filter everything through the Bible”.
Hope this was helpful,
Yours In Christ,
Eric Sutton