‘Two by Two’- a perfect title for the second episode of The Chosen series in season 3. In the previous episode which started off Season 3, the apostles arrived back home. However, their brief ‘homecoming’ turns into a period of immediate action and decision making as they are given instructions on how to approach their next task in their ministry.
The viewers are given a visual treat as many encounters of the disciples are shown in which two people and their relationships in context are depicted. There are scenes of intense interaction, tension, immense depth and personal struggle as the apostles are jousted out of their comfort zone to be sent on mission once more. Meanwhile, the narrative progresses showing a vast crowd now following Jesus all the way to Judaea after the Sermon on the Mount, causing several social and political problems for Jesus and his chosen ones.
The episode goes to great lengths to reveal the struggles faced by all of Jesus’ followers- those who are his apostles as well as those impacted by his Sermon on the Mount and want to experience the newness of life that He has promised. We see certain powerful scenes of reconciliation, as in the case of Matthew, and intense soul-searching in the case of Little James, make the episode rather impactful. Many will identify as well as empathize with Little James and his response to being sent out to heal and deliver others despite his own impediments. Jesus’ reply to his questions are noteworthy. As always the episode also has some lighter moments that diffuse the tension while the spotlight constantly hovers around twosome encounters.
The previous episode provided plenty of scriptural content as far as the Sermon on the Mount is concerned. In my opinion, viewers might not find as many references to direct scripture text /gospels in this episode. However, the episode definitely brings to surface the struggles of someone who might want to follow Jesus’ command of going out into the world to share the good news. The episode showcases responses that are amazingly relatable, particularly, if we place ourselves in the room when the command (from the gospel of St. Luke chapter 10) is given. If you are someone who enjoys analyses, particularly from a scriptural or spiritual angle, then watch how the episode ends and adds meaning to a certain psalm.
