Timestamps:
00:00:00 – 00:00:29 – Introduction
00:00:30 – 00:02:41 – The Chosen and its Controversies
00:02:42 – 00:05:51 – Exploring Jesus’ Humanity and Teachings
00:05:52 – 00:08:34 – The Balance of Humanity and Divinity in Jesus
00:08:35 – 00:11:32 – Artistic Representation and its Impact on Faith
00:11:33 – 00:14:30 – Understanding of The Chosen
00:14:31 – 00:17:19 – Navigating Personal Faith and Media Influence
00:17:20 – 00:20:10 – Reflections on Faith and Art
00:20:11 – 00:22:40 – Truth, Beauty and Goodness / Episode Conclusion
Episode Summary:
Is The Chosen leading us closer to Christ or further from the truth? In this episode, Stina and Padre offer a thoughtful Catholic reflection on the hit series The Chosen and respond to critiques like those of Leila Miller, who reject any portrayal of Jesus being taught or experiencing emotion. They explore how artistic expression can be a tool for evangelisation—if we place it in its proper context—and the importance of distinguishing between the real Jesus of the Gospels and the screen interpretation. This episode wrestles with the beauty, limitations, and potential risks of encountering Christ through media and reminds us that authentic intimacy with God cannot be replaced by art, but may be inspired by it.
Key Discussion Points:
- The Humanity of Jesus on Screen:
Some critics object to scenes like Jesus rehearsing his sermons or showing nervousness, but Padre notes that these actually express the fullness of Jesus’ humanity. As Catholics, we see Christ’s humanity as the sacrament of his divinity—a real and meaningful part of our faith. - A Tool, Not a Replacement:
Stina emphasizes that The Chosen is not Scripture, and it’s not meant to replace personal prayer or study. It’s a tool for evangelisation—beautifully crafted, but inevitably limited in its portrayal of the divine. - Heretical Content and Protestant Foundations:
As a Protestant production, it’s unsurprising that some theological errors exist. That doesn’t mean we discard the entire show. Padre reminds us that even imperfect works can contain glimpses of truth and goodness. - Inspiration vs. Idolatry:
Can falling in love with the Roumie Jesus (actor Jonathan Roumie) be dangerous? Only if we confuse the character with Christ himself. If, however, the show leads us into deeper prayer and dialogue with the real Jesus, it has served its purpose. - Personal Encounters Through Visuals:
SC shares how the show influenced her own meditative prayer—both enriching and, at times, limiting her imagination. The show left powerful impressions, similar to those from The Passion of the Christ, but eventually needed to be paused to maintain spiritual freedom. - Art’s Limitation in Depicting God:
No matter how beautifully produced, a show will never be able to fully capture the mystery of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. What it can do is stir the heart, if received rightly.
Reflective Questions:
- Do I take time to discern how faith-based media influences my relationship with Jesus?
- Am I engaging with artistic portrayals of Christ as a gateway to prayer—or am I relying on them as a substitute?
- What aspects of Jesus’ humanity challenge or inspire me?
- Have I set unrealistic expectations on media to “get it all right” in portraying sacred truth?
Practical Suggestions for Growth:
- Use Media for Prayer: Allow scenes from The Chosen or other artistic works to spark personal meditation, then return to Scripture and dialogue with the real Jesus.
- Discern the Fruit: If a show limits your ability to pray or visualize, take a break or shift to other resources.
- Stay Rooted in Truth: Regularly read the Gospels and participate in the sacramental life to remain grounded in authentic relationship with Christ.
- Practice Charitable Critique: When engaging with others who either love or dislike the show, respond with understanding and clarity—not fear or dismissal.
Truth, Beauty & Goodness
Padre – 7 Lies about Catholic History by Diane Moczar Amazon: Seven Lies about Catholic History: Infamous Myths about the Church’s Past and How to Answer Them : Moczar Dr, Diane: Amazon.com.au: Books
Stina – God-sons about to gain a new sibling each