Spiritual Reflection & Discussion Guide Backstories: “The Chosen

Without question, the key to any film about the life of Christ is the actor who plays the Lord. When you first see Jonathan Roumie as Jesus, you may be skeptical, but he’ll quickly win you over. The writing and directing help Mr. Roumie seem as he should: human and divine.However, the humanity of this Jesus is not austere, as it has
been in performances by most other actors who’ve portrayed Christ. It’s not that Mr. Roumie isn’t dignified but that he smiles and laughs and sings and dances – in the way a religious Jew of His time would have .As seen through the eyes of those who follow him, he slowly transitions from a remarkable teacher to the Messiah – in scenes subtle and clever, profound and funny. I am not suggesting The Chosen makes the Son of God a jokester.  His humor is uplifting; it causes people to see themselves in a new, profound light.

Simon (or Peter, as we know he’ll become – played by Shahar Isaac) tells Jesus that the calling of the tax collec tor Matthew (Paras Patel) is bad idea. Jesus replies: “You thought it was wrong when I called you!” Simon says:

“This is different.” Jesus says: “Get used to different,” which is a good guide for watching the series.  The title of the series refers not to the Messiah but to those whom He has called. No doubt the script and Mr. Jenkins [The Producer]have instructed and directed each actor to find his or her character’s unique personality, quirks and all. And the quirkiest is Mr. Patel’s Matthew, who (at least so far) suffers from obsessive-compulsive
disorder or autism. (to be continued...) 

“The Chosen”. You can also find all episodes on YouTube. Seasons 1 & 2 are now available, and 5 more are being planned