Tag: disciples

If I’m being completely honest, this is not my favorite episode. It actually is my least favorite episode in the entire Chosen series. Although that is a strong statement, every episode of The Chosen is so good! This one is just a little too slow for me. I’m not sure if you noticed, but it also is the shortest episode in The Chosen series clocking in at just over 20 minutes.

But here’s the thing: even though it doesn’t push the main storyline forward, it does something quietly beautiful. It gives us a peek into the everyday life of Jesus. The episode is titled “Jesus Loves All the Little Children,” and that’s exactly what you get—a simple, tender look at Jesus living a humble, ordinary life and making time for the children.

Watching it made me pause and think about just how humbling Jesus’ earthly life really was. The Son of God could have arrived with royal fanfare, dripping in gold, adored by crowds from day one. Instead, He chose a manger. He chose poverty. He chose to walk among the outcasts, the forgotten, the ones no one else wanted. This episode captures that heart so well. You see Him doing chores, working with His hands, cracking jokes, listening to kids, and being wonderfully, beautifully relatable. He stepped into our world and lived our struggles—and still loved people deeply and intentionally.

So yes, this episode may not be packed with plot twists or high‑stakes drama, but it shines in a different way. It highlights the gentleness, humility, and warmth of Jesus. And honestly, that’s worth slowing down for.

Let’s dig deeper into what Scripture says about Jesus’ life, His work, and His interactions with children. Grab the free study attached and let’s explore it together.

This episode is all about Shabbat and observing the sabbath. It is an interesting episode because we get to see a couple of Shabbat dinners in action! And The Chosen doesn’t just tell us about it; it lets us peek into several Shabbat dinners happening all at once.

Mary is healed and ready to host her very own Shabbat dinner for the first time ever and little does she know, but she will have the most important dinner guest there is. She has undergone a drastic change and is no longer is tormented by demons. She is happy, enjoying life and ready to observe her Jewish traditions and host Shabbat.

Meanwhile, Nicodemus hears rumors that Mary is healed and immediately goes into detective mode. He has to see it with his own eyes. When he finds her, he’s stunned—not just by her transformation, but by the fact that she credits her healing to a mysterious man who didn’t even give his name. Nicodemus can’t wrap his mind around someone performing a miracle and not wanting the spotlight. Little does he know… this is going to be a recurring theme with Jesus.

Two of our other main characters, Matthew and Simon both don’t get to celebrate Shabbat. They have very different reasons, but both situations provide insight into their lives. Matthew as a tax collector is rejected by the Jewish people and has no where to celebrate Shabbat. He goes to someone’s home, but doesn’t have the courage to knock on the door and attend the dinner. He is used to rejection and assumes the same will happen this Shabbat.

Simon has gotten himself into a pickle where he needs to deliver the merchant fishermen who are fishing on the Sabbath or he will be in big trouble with the Roman officers. He attempts to butter up the fishermen at the bar to understand who is fishing on the Sabbath and then ends up having to leave the Shabbat dinner to catch the fisherman in the act. Andrew and Eden are both upset with Simon and it ruins their Shabbat dinner as well.

As Christians, we don’t celebrate Shabbat with a traditional Friday‑night dinner, but we are called to honor the Sabbath and rest (Exodus 20:8–11). Watching this episode raises a pretty convicting question: how are we actually spending our Sundays? Are we resting the way God designed us to? Are we slowing down, reconnecting with family, and making space for Him?

It’s worth pausing to take inventory. Not out of guilt, but out of invitation. God built rest into creation long before He ever commanded it. Maybe it’s time to reclaim it.

If you want to dig deeper into the scriptures behind this episode, download the Bible study I’ve attached. Test everything against the Word. Let the show inspire you—but let Scripture shape you.

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.

It’s here—the final episode—and wow, does it deliver! After seven episodes walking through the Last Supper, this one opens with the final song sung at the table. I wasn’t sure if we’d revisit the Supper again, but instead, we’re swept straight into the Garden with Jesus. And honestly? That shift felt right. The tone changes, the tension builds, and things get real.

Jesus heads out with Peter, James, and John, asking them to keep watch while he prays. Simple enough, right? Except… they fall asleep. Repeatedly. Three times, Jesus comes back to find them snoozing. Peter even gets called “Simon,” which stings—like a gentle but pointed reminder of his old self. You can almost hear Jesus thinking, Come on, guys. Just one hour.

Meanwhile, the show gives us a peek into other corners of Jerusalem. Atticus and Pilate are deep in conversation—Pilate wants peace, Atticus wants Rome to look good. Claudia’s still haunted by dreams she can’t shake. And the religious leaders? They’re in full-on debate mode. Caiaphas pushes for Jesus’ arrest, but not everyone’s on board. Then, in walks Nicodemus with a dramatic entrance, trying to defend Jesus. It’s bold, it’s heartfelt… and it’s just too late. Judas has already made his move.

Back in the Garden, Jesus begins to pray—and this is where the episode takes a powerful turn. He has three visions. The visions come from scripture, but creatively imagined for the screen as we don’t know for sure that Jesus had these visions while he was in the garden:

1. Abraham and Isaac – Jesus watches Abraham prepare to sacrifice his son, only for God to provide a ram. The irony is thick: Jesus is about to be sacrificed, but no ram is coming for him.
2. Valley of Dry Bones – Straight out of Ezekiel 37, Jesus stands among lifeless bones as God promises to breathe life into them. Resurrection imagery? Absolutely. It’s a quiet nod to what’s coming in three days.
3. Joseph’s Comfort – Jesus is embraced by his earthly father. It’s tender, grounding, and deeply human.

Then comes the moment we’ve been dreading: Judas steps out from behind the Roman guards and kisses Jesus. That kiss—so simple, so loaded—is the signal. The betrayal is complete. The disciples are stunned. We’re stunned. And just like that, the season ends.

There’s a lot of scripture packed into this episode, and if you’re ready to dig deeper, the study guide has you covered. This is your last chance to dive into the Word alongside the season. I hope this journey has helped you grow—whether in your understanding of Jesus, your love for scripture, or your connection to God.

Want the full study guide with bonus material? Grab it through the link attached. It’s been a joy walking through this season with you.

https://www.lulu.com/shop/brittany-mcgaffin/the-chosen-season-5-bible-study/paperback/product-7k8k7g5.html?page=1&pageSize=4

Let’s address the elephant in the room: if you’re squeamish about feet, this episode probably made you squirm. We’re not talking pedicures—we’re talking dusty, calloused, road-weary disciple feet. And Jesus? He got right down and washed them. All of them. That includes Judas—the guy about to hand him over. If humility had a face, this was it.

The buildup to the Passover meal is full of intrigue. Jesus sends two disciples ahead with cryptic instructions involving a man with a water jar. Of course, it unfolds exactly as he says—because when doesn’t it? They find the house, and it’s ready for them, just as foretold. In a creative twist, the show introduces a boy named Mark who’s scrubbing graffiti off the walls: “Jesus Is Messiah.” Not exactly in scripture, but it’s a clever way to mark the spot—pun intended. Is this Mark the future gospel writer? Maybe. Maybe not. But the name drop doesn’t feel accidental.

Then the episode takes a turn—a memory lane detour. We see several disciples caught in flashbacks as they journey to the supper, stirring up backstories we didn’t get in Season 1 and 2. Little James and Thaddeus (in the next episode) finally get their origin moment, while Zee, Nathanael, Andrew, Thomas, and Matthew each get emotional highlights that bring depth and closure to their stories. It’s not pulled from scripture, but it definitely adds some flavor.

And then there’s Judas. His scene with his sister packs a punch. She tells him his name will be remembered forever—a prophecy of pride dressed up as praise. Of course, history took that sentiment and ran with it in the darkest direction possible. Caiaphas says Judas is the last of his line, destined to be forgotten. How wrong they both were. Judas would become one of the most infamous names in human history, etched into scripture—not as a hero, but as the betrayer.

Ready to geek out a little? Dive into the study guide and explore the scripture that anchors this episode. You’ll spot the overlaps, catch the creative detours, and flex that spiritual discernment like a pro.

The entire bible study is available for purchase at Lulu.com. See the Shop icon on the homepage or click the link below to purchase your own copy. https://www.lulu.com/shop/brittany-mcgaffin/the-chosen-season-5-bible-study/paperback/product-7k8k7g5.html?q=brittany+mcgaffin&page=1&pageSize=4

If you thought the last episode packed a punch, this one throws the knockout. Picking up right where we left off, two major storylines unfold—and neither goes the way you’d expect.

First surprise: Nicodemus is back! Could he rescue Jesus from the Romans? Convince the Jewish leaders He’s the real deal and save Him from death? Not quite. Turns out, Nicodemus isn’t the hero of this episode—or this story. His moment with Mary is a letdown. When she needs someone to speak up for Jesus, Nicodemus shrinks back. If you were rooting for a redemption arc, it’s going to have to wait.

Second surprise: Judas meets with Caiaphas. His reasoning? If he betrays Jesus, maybe that’ll force Him to finally claim David’s throne. But as the conversation deepens, cracks appear. Judas isn’t just scheming—he’s struggling. By the end, those doubts win out, and he makes the trade: 30 pieces of silver for the whereabouts of his Master.

Then comes the heart of the episode—the Last Supper. Communion, as we know it, begins right here. Seeing Jesus explain the bread as His body and the wine as His blood brings an entirely new weight to the ritual. Next time you’re in church, you might just picture that table more vividly than ever.

We also meet a couple fresh faces. First, there’s the mysterious stalker who’s been lurking in the background for a while—he’s Matthias, Nicodemus’ spy. Turns out he’s been quietly documenting miracles and sermons for the Teacher of Teachers. Then there’s Barabbas, whom Simon the Zealot recognizes as a fellow rebel. They crossed paths seasons ago when Barabbas tried to take Simon out for choosing Jesus over the cause. Interestingly, scripture doesn’t identify Barabbas as a Zealot, but you’ll find notes on that in the study guide if you want to dig deeper.

And here’s the question that’s still bouncing around in my head: could Matthias be the same guy who replaces Judas as a disciple later on? Maybe. Maybe not. Only future seasons (and some creative storytelling) will tell.

Want to separate truth from adaptation? The attached study guide dives into the biblical backbone of this episode—so you can decide what’s scripture and what’s creative license.

We’re halfway through Season 5, and things are heating up faster than a Galilean summer. This episode is pure setup—but in the best way. The tension is rising, the foreshadowing is thick, and the creative liberties? Let’s just say they’re starting to take a few leaps.

First up: flashbacks to the Last Supper. Jesus drops the bombshell— He warns the disciples that someone is going to betray him, hmmm I wonder who that will be? He also warns that they will face trials and persecution after his crucifixion. Wait a minute, what? His crucifixion? The disciples are confused about that one.

Now the cursed fig tree makes its comeback—and spoiler alert—it doesn’t. Turns out, Jesus wasn’t bluffing. No fruit, no future. The tree withers away like yesterday’s leftovers. Moral of the story? Don’t be useless around Jesus.

Then we jump to Pilate’s household drama. His wife is freaking out—nightmares, ominous visions, the works. She wants out of Jerusalem, and she wants out now. But Pilate? Not thrilled. Letting her leave would make him look weak, and if there’s one thing Pilate cannot afford, it’s a dent in his fragile reputation. The creators are clearly setting the stage for something big here. Next season, anyone?

Now for a plot twist that isn’t in scripture—so buckle up. Mary’s approached by a stranger on the street who wants to take her somewhere… without telling her where. Red flags everywhere. She’s blindfolded and whisked off to an unknown location. When the blindfold comes off—bam—a familiar face from Season 1 reappears. Did you remember who it was? This reunion has zero biblical backing, but it’s juicy enough to make you wonder where they’re headed with it.

And we end on a high-stakes cliffhanger: Judas, cloak billowing, heading off to meet… someone. The scene mirrors Mary’s mysterious journey, except this time we get our answer. The final frame reveals Judas face to face with Caiaphas. Talk about dramatic timing. The credits roll, and we all sit there going, “Yikes.”

Next episode? Expect fallout. Betrayal is in the air, and Jesus’ warnings are inching closer to reality.

Want to dig deeper into the episode? Download the study guide I put together—it’s packed with scripture references and questions to help you reflect on the final days of Jesus’ life and this intense chapter of the season.

If I had naming rights, I’d slap a bold label on this episode: Frustration. That word practically hums beneath every scene. It’s in Judas’s furrowed brow, Caiaphas’s clenched jaw, and yes—even in the rustle of fig leaves that dare not bear fruit.

Let’s talk Judas. He’s watching Jesus take questions and twist them into truth, but it’s not the kind of truth Judas had in mind. That famous “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s” line? Not exactly the political thunder Judas wanted. Things aren’t lining up with his idea of success, and he lets it show—in a conversation with Peter that’s not in the Bible but feels entirely plausible. Then comes a bold pitch to Jesus himself. Judas offers up his strategy, trying to help Jesus—yes, help Jesus—be more effective. You can practically feel him leaning forward: “Let me handle the optics, Rabbi.” It’s not in scripture, but based on what we know of Judas, it’s not a stretch either.

And now… the fig tree. Jesus is hungry, the tree’s barren, and it’s about to become the most cursed plant in Judea. Is this a rare glimpse of frustration from Jesus? Maybe. But in true rabbinic style, there’s always a deeper meaning coming. Think of it as the parable before the parable.

Meanwhile, while some are scheming and others are sulking, we get a beautiful contrast: the Dayenu moment. The women gather around Jesus to share a Seder meal—not a scene pulled straight from scripture, but one crafted with thoughtful intention. If Jesus was in Bethany before Passover, wouldn’t he break bread with those closest to him? The Dayenu prayer, spoken during the Passover meal, is a cascade of gratitude: Even if You had only done this one thing… it would have been enough. That line hits different when you picture these women reflecting on how Jesus has walked with them, listened to them, and seen them.

This scene doesn’t just add warmth—it reframes the whole episode. While leaders plot and Judas fumes, the faithful respond with thanks. Frustration is part of the story, but gratitude, as always, gets the final word.

Now it’s your turn. Check out the Bible study guide for this episode, dig into the scripture references, and maybe—just maybe—craft a Dayenu of your own. What would have been enough for you?