Josie

I remember hearing some actors from Chosen doing readings on the Hallow app during Christmas. I've always been skeptical about Christian shows and movies, assuming they were cheesy with poor acting. But then, both Netflix and Amazon Prime kept recommending it. So, I decided to give it a shot, just one episode. To my surprise, I was instantly hooked. My friends now joke that I could be a marketer for the show, given my newfound passion for it! I'm currently on my third round of watching it and even participating in a Bible study alongside.

What a privilege to join the millions of voices around the world. Let me start by saying that I am not a Christian. I left the church when I was just 14 years old, and now I'm 78. My journey has been long and incredible, so I'll try to keep it brief. For 40 years, I searched for something spiritual. I devoured countless books by amazing teachers, and I had moments of awe and wonder. I studied and practiced, but it was nature that truly spoke to me—the beauty and tranquility of God's creation. However, I still couldn't find a love that felt genuine to me. Something was missing. Then, a couple of years ago, by some undeserved grace, a friend recommended that I watch The Chosen. It was a revelation. The show's messages were more valuable than any diamonds or rubies. It was a feast of love that changed my life. I bought the DVDs for seasons 1, 2, and 3, and every night, I can hardly bring myself to watch anything else. I'm eagerly awaiting season 4. The entire cast is exceptional. Since I have no family, The Chosen family sits with me at the dinner table. Jonathan's portrayal of Jesus is masterful. I feel his love and faith. If I had known this Jesus when I was younger, I doubt I would have ever left the church. Matthew's character resonates with so many of us who have been hurt by not fitting in. I relate to Little James because I also have a broken hip, and I understand the deeper meaning behind why he wasn't healed. As for loving the "bad guys," I can't explain it, but Quintus with his infectious laugh, Atticus with his quiet strength, and Gaius caring for Matthew and befriending Simon—each one is so special. And how could I forget the Zealot? The writers are truly brilliant. They bring Scripture to life in the most incredible way. Their words feel divinely inspired. When I picked up the Bible for the first time after watching The Chosen, it was like the scriptures came alive before my eyes. For 40 years, I wandered spiritually without even realizing I was lost, just like Matthew. But now, Jesus has found me, this old lady. I am overflowing with His love, and I know He is always by my side. When it's my time to go, I trust that He will guide me into the eternal love that He embodies. I must give a special mention to Dallas and his unwavering commitment to answering God's call. I am deeply grateful that he faced his own challenges to bring the love of Christ to the world. I've attached a picture of the Chosen gifts that adorn my altar and greet me every morning during my prayerful writing. They serve as a reminder of the incredible life that has unfolded for me in these later years—all because of my relationship with Jesus. "He won't let me go." I'm currently writing a book about how I encountered Jesus, my master. It's titled A Lantern in the Darkness. This is my legacy. I now have no doubt in His love, and I want to share this with others. We are the lanterns that illuminate the world, and as long as we keep our flames burning bright, darkness cannot prevail.

As someone who has dedicated their life to studying the Bible and teaching adults for over four decades, I've found that the series, Chosen, truly captures the essence of the Messiah. Every Sunday afternoon, we gather as a church family to watch this series, and the insightful questions it sparks are truly remarkable. This portrayal of Jesus is something that needs to be seen by as many people as possible. In American churches, our preaching has often been skewed, focusing on one aspect of the Savior over others. But we're called to follow Jesus as he is, not a version we've created for ourselves. To do otherwise is simply idolatry. The Chosen has done an exceptional job of presenting a holistic view of Jesus, the only one truly worth following. It's a series that strikes at the heart of what it means to be a follower of Christ, challenging us to see beyond our preconceptions and embrace the full measure of the Messiah.

I first stumbled upon Chosen through Facebook ads when they were just beginning to partner up. Intrigued, I decided to invest. By the time I watched Episode 4 of Season 1, my excitement had grown, but I was skeptical about how many people I knew would actually subscribe to watch. However, when Dallas made it free on the app, I was over the moon. I couldn't help but share it with everyone I knew. I made a point of showing the "fish scene" to those I thought might be skeptical. To my surprise, they weren't. I had this one friend who I knew would spread the word faster than wildfire if I told her about it. We were both incredibly moved by the Sermon on the Mount and the Feeding of the Five Thousand. Now, I proudly wear the badge of a top fan and am committed to spreading the word about The Chosen to the world. I don't even need a tax deduction for my contributions, but I appreciate that it's an option. I wish more people would donate, even if it's just a little every month. I firmly believe that this show will lead more and more people to discover the authentic Jesus.