The Chosen has become more than a national phenomenon—it’s a global wave of excitement that’s pulling people straight into the world of the gospels. There’s something powerful about watching Scripture unfold on screen. Suddenly, the stories you’ve read for years take on color, movement, and emotion. Once you’ve seen these moments play out, you’ll never read your Bible the same way again. I’m thrilled you’re stepping into The Chosen journey. It’s one ride you won’t regret.
One of the best parts of this series is how intentionally the creators stay close to Scripture. Sure, they fill in some narrative gaps, but the backbone of the show is firmly rooted in the biblical text. Episode one drops us right into the life of Mary Magdalene. At first glance, she seems like any other woman in Capernaum—until we discover she’s tormented by seven demons. No one can help her. Not the townspeople. Not the religious leaders. Not even Nicodemus, the respected Pharisee and teacher of teachers. But then Jesus steps onto the scene, and everything changes. With a word, He frees her. It’s a stunning moment and a bold choice for the show’s opening miracle. Jesus for the win!
Some theologians point out that Jesus’ first public miracle was turning water into wine. But Scripture doesn’t give us a timeline for Mary’s healing. Luke simply tells us that seven demons had come out of her. (Luke 8:2) Whether this moment happened early or later, The Chosen uses it to introduce one of the most compelling characters of the entire series.
While Mary takes center stage in this episode, we also meet Simon and Andrew. Scripture tells us they were fishermen, but The Chosen adds some extra layers—showing them as scrappy, street-smart, and occasionally in over their heads. Is every detail biblical? Not exactly. But considering Simon’s fiery personality, he did cut off the high priest’s servant’s ear who tried to mess with Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane. (John 18:10), it’s not hard to imagine he had a bit of an edge.
We’re also introduced to Nicodemus and Matthew. Nicodemus is portrayed as a respected Pharisee wrestling with questions he can’t quite shake. Matthew is the meticulous, socially awkward tax collector who will eventually become one of Jesus’ closest followers. The Bible doesn’t say Nicodemus ever attempted to cast out Mary’s demons, but the show uses that moment to spark his curiosity about Jesus. It’s a creative choice that sets up some of the most meaningful scenes in later episodes.
The first episode is really an introduction to the characters. As the show continues more of the story will take place and many more characters will be introduced. The fun is just beginning!
To help you follow along, I’ve created a Bible study you can complete after each episode. It’s short—about 10–15 minutes—and totally free to download. Each lesson includes a “While You Watch” section to help you track characters and key moments, plus reflection questions to help you dig deeper. With so many characters entering the story this season, subtitles can be your best friend. They’ll help you catch every name, every line, and every detail.
My prayer is that watching The Chosen stirs something in you—a hunger to open your Bible and read the gospels for yourself. Now that you’ve seen the creators’ interpretation, go back to the source. Nothing replaces Scripture. No show, no matter how well done, can match the depth and beauty of the written Word. Read the stories they included, the ones they didn’t, and the ones they rearranged. Compare, reflect, and let God speak to you through His Word.
And if you want even more, The Chosen offers its own Bible study as well. It’s excellent—just a bit longer and different in style from the one I’ve created. Both can be great tools as you walk through the series.
The journey has just begun. Let’s dive in.
Biblical Rewind 
Leave a comment