The Chosen series as of now has released an emotional and extremely intense trailer for their fourth Season which makes this a good time to review the episodes of Season 3 so that first time viewers can understand the sequence of events better while fans can appreciate the nuances of miniscule details put together through Season 3. Each of my reviews will analyze the episodes from the perspective of spiritual or biblical reflection rather than filmmaking for reasons that are obvious to the context of this website. Let’s get started.
Episode 1 of Season 3 in the series picks up the narrative from the finale of Season 2 in which Jesus and his ‘chosen’ ones have prepared the scene for the Sermon on the Mount. Keeping the gospel of Matthew in mind, the episode brings out some of the themes of the sermon. Each apostle is convicted and touched with a different topic which stirs them on, to be ‘doers and not merely hearers’ of Jesus’ words.
The episode is titled ‘Homecoming’ and viewers will be amazed at how this theme is showcased in the lives of various apostles- with the homecoming culminating in either a physical or spiritual experience that deepens their relationships with family and friends.
An interesting feature of the episode is the induction of Judas into the group of twelve and the introduction to the characters of Joanna, the lady who works in Herod’s court as well as Jairus, the synagogue administrator. Pay close attention to each of these characters, and how they are presented, to help you understand the story better. It will enable you as the viewer to make future predictions from what you understand.
While watching the episode, keep an eye out for the manner in which the lives of each apostle is impacted by the Sermon. After their rugged and indiscreet beginnings in the previous seasons, the apostles are gradually getting a taste of the true mission of the Messiah – a conversion of the heart. Do they resent Jesus’ words? Do they allow those words to resonate with their lives that are so imperfect? Episode 1 reveals all of this and more. Watch out for some tender moments of interaction between the apostles and some lighter scenes as each apostle embraces the ‘homecoming’ in their own style.
Personally, I found the introduction of Judas into the group as well as John the Baptist’s short conversation most fascinating. The quick flashback of Matthew’s life is also endearing, and it helped me understand his struggles better. At first glance everything seems hunky dory with the apostles however, beneath the surface there is a greater work being done- which is beautifully depicted in the episode. A must watch for The Chosen fans and definitely a great encouragement to those who wish to learn more about the lives of the men and women who went on to become legendary followers of The Messiah.
