“The Chosen” is a widely popular television series that dramatizes the life of Jesus Christ and His disciples. Created by Dallas Jenkins, the show has captivated millions worldwide with its powerful storytelling, compelling performances, and high production value. However, as with any creative interpretation of biblical events, there are concerns and warnings that viewers should consider when watching the series.
This article explores some of these concerns, addressing theological accuracy, spiritual discernment, and the implications of artistic liberties taken by the show’s creators.
Theological Concerns
One of the primary concerns raised by Christian scholars and theologians is the potential for theological inaccuracies. While “The Chosen” is rooted in the Bible, it incorporates fictionalized dialogue and events to flesh out the characters and their relationships. This creative liberty, though intended to enhance storytelling, could inadvertently lead viewers to adopt a version of biblical events that deviates from Scripture.
- Potential for Misinterpretation: Some viewers, especially those less familiar with the Bible, might assume that every detail portrayed in the show is biblically accurate. This misunderstanding could lead to confusion about the teachings and life of Jesus.
- Doctrinal Differences: The series attempts to appeal to a broad audience, including various Christian denominations. As a result, some interpretations might align more closely with certain traditions than others, potentially alienating viewers with differing beliefs.
Influence of Creative Liberties
Artistic interpretations are a double-edged sword. On one hand, they bring the characters to life, making the stories more relatable and engaging. On the other hand, these liberties can blur the line between fact and fiction.
- Fictional Backstories: To make the characters more relatable, “The Chosen” provides detailed backstories for figures like Mary Magdalene, Matthew, and Peter. While these additions are not inherently wrong, they are not found in Scripture and should be viewed as speculative rather than factual.
- Dialogue and Actions: Many of the conversations and actions of Jesus and His disciples are not recorded in the Bible. The creators have written these scenes to fit the narrative, but they should not be taken as scriptural truth.
Ecumenical Collaboration
“The Chosen” is notable for its ecumenical collaboration, involving input from various Christian traditions, including Protestant, Catholic, and even some Latter-day Saint (Mormon) perspectives. This collaboration, while aimed at fostering unity, has sparked concerns:
- LDS Influence: The involvement of individuals associated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has raised questions about the show’s doctrinal purity. While Dallas Jenkins has clarified that the series is not promoting LDS theology, some viewers remain cautious about potential subtle influences.
- Generalization of Jesus’ Message: In striving to appeal to a wide audience, there’s a risk of oversimplifying or diluting key theological principles to avoid offending different denominations.
Emotional Manipulation
The series excels at eliciting strong emotional responses, which is part of its appeal. However, there is a danger in relying too heavily on emotion when engaging with spiritual content.
- Emotional Overload: While the show’s portrayal of Jesus’ compassion and the disciples’ struggles can be moving, it may lead viewers to equate emotional experiences with spiritual truth.
- Shifting Focus from Scripture: Viewers might prioritize their emotional connection to the show over a direct engagement with the Bible, which remains the ultimate source of Christian truth.
The Role of Discernment
Given these concerns, it’s vital for viewers to approach “The Chosen” with discernment. Here are some practical tips for engaging with the series responsibly:
- Verify with Scripture: Always compare the show’s portrayal with biblical accounts. Use it as an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Scripture.
- Discuss with Community: Engage in discussions with your church or Bible study group about the series. This can help clarify any misconceptions and provide a balanced perspective.
- Focus on the Core Message: While artistic interpretations may vary, the central message of Jesus’ love, grace, and redemption remains unchanged. Keep this truth at the forefront.
Conclusion
“The Chosen” is an ambitious and heartfelt attempt to bring the story of Jesus and His followers to a modern audience. While it has undoubtedly touched countless lives, it is essential to approach the series with a critical and discerning mind. By doing so, viewers can appreciate its artistic merits while remaining rooted in the truth of Scripture.
As with any media portraying biblical themes, let the Word of God be your ultimate guide and authority. Whether you find “The Chosen” inspiring or problematic, use it as a catalyst to draw closer to God, seek His truth, and deepen your faith.