This study guide is a companion to Season 1 of The Chosen, offering a deeper dive into the biblical and historical context of the series. Designed for personal or group use, it includes discussion questions, key scripture passages, and background information to enhance understanding. Perfect for small groups, families, or individual reflection, this guide helps viewers explore the themes and stories presented in the show. Available as a free PDF, it provides a structured approach to engage with the series and its spiritual significance. Each episode is accompanied by resources to foster meaningful conversations and personal growth. The guide is an invaluable tool for those seeking to connect more deeply with the life of Jesus and His followers as portrayed in The Chosen.

1.1 Overview of The Chosen Series

The Chosen is the first multi-season TV series about the life of Jesus Christ, created outside the Hollywood system. It explores the lives of those who knew Him, including Mary Magdalene, Nicodemus, Matthew, and Simon Peter. The series delves into themes such as being chosen, sin, forgiveness, and redemption, set against the backdrop of first-century Israel. It offers a fresh, intimate portrayal of Jesus and His followers, blending historical and cultural context with spiritual insights. The show is designed to engage both long-time believers and those new to the story of Jesus, providing a unique perspective on the Gospels.

1.2 Purpose of the Study Guide

The purpose of The Chosen Season 1 Study Guide is to deepen viewers’ understanding of the series and its biblical context. It provides discussion questions, key scripture passages, and background information for each episode, fostering meaningful conversations and personal reflection; Designed for small groups, families, or individual use, the guide helps explore themes like being chosen, sin, forgiveness, and redemption. It serves as a tool to enhance spiritual growth and engagement with the life of Jesus and His followers. The guide is available as a free PDF download, making it accessible for all who seek to connect more deeply with the story.

Key Characters in Season 1

Season 1 of The Chosen introduces key biblical figures who encounter Jesus, each with unique backgrounds and struggles. Mary Magdalene, Nicodemus, Matthew, and Simon Peter are central to the narrative, illustrating diverse responses to Jesus’ ministry. Their stories highlight themes of redemption and faith, providing depth to the series.

2.1 Mary Magdalene

Mary Magdalene, introduced in Luke 8:2, is a key character in Season 1 of The Chosen. Once tormented by seven demons, she finds liberation through Jesus, becoming a devoted follower. Her journey from darkness to light exemplifies redemption and faith. Mary’s story highlights the transformative power of Jesus’ ministry, showcasing her unwavering loyalty and the depth of her spiritual awakening. Her presence at pivotal moments, such as the crucifixion and resurrection, underscores her significance in the narrative.

2.2 Nicodemus

Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin, is a complex character in Season 1 of The Chosen. Initially cautious, he secretly meets Jesus at night, showcasing his curiosity and growing faith. Despite his prominent position, Nicodemus struggles with the political and religious tensions surrounding Jesus. His journey reflects the internal conflict of a man drawn to truth but bound by tradition. Over time, Nicodemus becomes a bold defender of Jesus, illustrating the transformative power of faith and redemption.

2.3 Matthew

Matthew, a tax collector, is portrayed as an outcast in Season 1 of The Chosen. His journey begins in isolation, collecting taxes for the Romans, which makes him despised by his community. When Jesus calls him, Matthew leaves his old life behind, embracing a new purpose as a disciple. His transformation highlights themes of redemption and forgiveness. Matthew’s story shows how Jesus values the marginalized and transforms their lives, giving them a new identity and purpose. His past experiences shape his unique perspective as a disciple.

2.4 Simon Peter

Simon Peter, a fisherman, is introduced as a bold and impulsive man deeply devoted to his faith. His relationship with his brother Andrew highlights his strong sense of loyalty. A pivotal moment occurs when Peter fails to recognize Jesus in a crowd, showcasing his spiritual blindness before encountering Christ. This event underscores his journey from doubt to faith, setting the stage for his transformation into a key disciple. His story emphasizes the power of grace and redemption in overcoming personal shortcomings.

Historical and Cultural Context

The study guide explores first-century Israel’s political, social, and religious landscape, highlighting the cultural significance of shepherds and the societal norms shaping interactions with Jesus and His followers.

3.1 First-Century Israel

First-century Israel was a land under Roman occupation, marked by political unrest, religious tensions, and cultural traditions. The study guide highlights the societal norms, such as the role of shepherds, the prominence of synagogues, and the divisions among Jewish sects like Pharisees and Sadducees. Economic struggles and the longing for a Messiah shaped daily life, providing a rich backdrop for understanding the biblical events portrayed in The Chosen. This context helps viewers better grasp the historical setting of Jesus’ ministry and its impact on His followers.

3.2 The Role of Shepherds in Biblical Times

In biblical times, shepherds played a vital role in society, tending to flocks that sustained communities economically and symbolically. Despite their importance, shepherds were often marginalized and considered unclean due to their constant exposure to animals. The study guide highlights how shepherds, like Abel and Jacob, were central to biblical narratives, emphasizing their trustworthiness and closeness to God. This background enriches the understanding of scenes in The Chosen, where shepherds are often the first to receive divine announcements, underscoring their spiritual significance.

Theological Themes in Season 1

Season 1 explores themes of sin, forgiveness, and redemption, delving into what it means to be chosen by God. Through characters like Mary Magdalene and Nicodemus, it highlights the transformative power of faith and grace, emphasizing Jesus’ compassion and the depth of human need for divine redemption.

4.1 What Does It Mean to Be Chosen?

The study guide explores the concept of being chosen through the lives of Mary Magdalene, Nicodemus, Matthew, and Simon Peter. Each character’s journey reveals that being chosen is not about worthiness but God’s grace and purpose. It emphasizes that everyone, regardless of their past, is called to a unique relationship with Jesus and a life of transformation.

This theme highlights the idea that being chosen means being part of a larger story, one of redemption and community. The guide helps viewers reflect on how they, like the characters, can embrace their calling and live out their faith in meaningful ways.

4.2 Sin, Forgiveness, and Redemption

The study guide delves into the universal themes of sin, forgiveness, and redemption, central to the series. Through characters like Mary Magdalene and others, it illustrates how Jesus’ love transforms lives. The guide explores how sin separates us from God, forgiveness restores relationships, and redemption offers new life. These themes are woven into the stories of ordinary people, showing how Jesus’ compassion and mercy extend to all, regardless of their past. This section helps viewers reflect on their own journey of forgiveness and redemption.

Episode-by-Episode Analysis

This section provides a detailed breakdown of each episode in Season 1, offering summaries, key moments, and theological insights. Each analysis includes discussion points and reflections, helping viewers engage deeply with the story and its biblical context. From Mary Magdalene’s transformation to the feeding of the 5000, the guide explores the spiritual and emotional journey of each character, enriching the viewing experience.

5.1 Episode 1: I Have Called You by Name

This episode introduces the story of Jesus through the eyes of ordinary people, focusing on Mary Magdalene and a group of shepherds. It explores themes of redemption and God’s personal call, highlighting Mary’s liberation from demons and the shepherds’ encounter with the Messiah. The guide provides discussion questions and reflections to deepen understanding of the episode’s biblical and historical context, helping viewers connect with the characters’ journeys and the significance of their stories in the larger narrative of Jesus’ life.

5.2 Episode 2: Shalom

Episode 2, titled Shalom, delves into the lives of Mary Magdalene and Nicodemus, showcasing their journeys toward faith and redemption; The episode highlights themes of peace, healing, and the transformative power of Jesus’ presence. It also introduces the cultural and historical context of first-century Israel, emphasizing the significance of the Hebrew concept of Shalom. The study guide provides reflection questions and insights to help viewers engage with the episode’s emotional depth and spiritual significance, fostering a deeper connection to the characters and their stories.

5.3 Episode 3: Jesus Loves the Little

Episode 3, Jesus Loves the Little, explores themes of humility, love, and the Kingdom of God through Jesus’ interactions with children and the marginalized. The study guide highlights how Jesus’ teachings challenge societal norms, emphasizing that spiritual greatness comes from serving others. It also examines the emotional journeys of characters like Mary Magdalene and Matthew, offering discussion questions and biblical insights to deepen understanding of Jesus’ message of radical love and inclusion. This episode underscores the transformative power of humility and trust in God’s plan.

5.4 Episode 4: The Rock on Which It Is Built

In Episode 4, The Rock on Which It Is Built, the series highlights Peter’s pivotal moment of declaring Jesus as the Messiah, emphasizing faith and loyalty. The study guide explores how this declaration serves as the foundation of the church, reflecting Jesus’ statement, “On this rock I will build my church.” It also delves into the growing trust among the disciples and the subtle transformations in characters like Matthew and Nicodemus. Discussion questions and biblical context help viewers connect Peter’s confession to their own faith journeys, reinforcing the episode’s themes of commitment and spiritual growth.

5.5 Episode 5: The Wedding Gift

Episode 5, The Wedding Gift, focuses on Mary Magdalene’s journey and her transformative encounter with Jesus. The study guide explores her backstory, highlighting her deliverance from seven demons and her devotion to Jesus. This episode also introduces the miracle at the wedding in Cana, showcasing Jesus’ divine power. Discussion questions and key scriptures, such as John 2:1-11, help viewers reflect on faith, trust, and God’s provision. The guide emphasizes Mary’s role as a witness and the significance of her story in the broader narrative of Jesus’ ministry.

5.6 Episode 6: His Escape

In Episode 6: His Escape, the tension escalates as Jesus narrowly evades capture by the Pharisees, showcasing His divine timing and trust in God’s plan. The study guide delves into themes of obedience, divine providence, and the growing opposition to Jesus’ ministry. Discussion questions explore the Pharisees’ motivations and Jesus’ response to danger. Key scriptures, such as John 4:1-42, highlight Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman, emphasizing His mission to reach all people. This episode underscores the balance between human action and divine sovereignty.

5.7 Episode 7: The First Signs

In Episode 7: The First Signs, Jesus performs His first public miracles, igniting faith and curiosity. The study guide explores these pivotal moments, such as turning water into wine and healing Peter’s mother-in-law. Discussion questions delve into the significance of these signs and their impact on the disciples’ belief. Key scriptures, like John 2:1-11, emphasize Jesus’ divine power and compassion. This episode highlights the intersection of faith, trust, and redemption, setting the stage for His growing influence and the challenges ahead.

5.8 Episode 8: The Feeding of the 5000

Episode 8: The Feeding of the 5000 captures one of Jesus’ most iconic miracles, showcasing His compassion and divine provision. The study guide highlights how this event, detailed in John 6:1-14, reflects Jesus’ ability to multiply resources and meet human needs. Discussion questions explore themes of faith, trust, and God’s abundance. This episode underscores Jesus’ identity as the Bread of Life, offering spiritual nourishment to all who follow Him, while also revealing the growing impact of His ministry on the people.

Study Guide Structure

The study guide is organized into sections: Discussion Questions, Key Scripture Passages, and Background Information, providing a comprehensive framework for exploring each episode’s themes and biblical context. Designed for small groups, personal reflection, or family discussions, it includes visual elements to enrich understanding. Each section is crafted to deepen spiritual engagement and foster meaningful conversations about the series.

6.1 Discussion Questions

Each episode in the study guide includes thought-provoking discussion questions designed to deepen understanding and encourage reflection. These questions help viewers engage with the biblical themes, cultural context, and personal applications of the series. They are tailored to foster meaningful conversations in small groups, families, or personal study. The questions explore character motivations, spiritual lessons, and the relevance of Jesus’ teachings in modern life, making them ideal for sparking dialogue and introspection. The guide also provides space for journaling, allowing individuals to record their thoughts and insights. By focusing on key moments and themes, the discussion questions enhance the overall viewing experience and encourage a deeper connection with the story of Jesus and His followers.

6.2 Key Scripture Passages

Each episode in the study guide highlights key scripture passages to deepen understanding of Jesus’ life and teachings. These passages are carefully selected to connect the series’ narrative with biblical text, enhancing the viewer’s spiritual engagement. They provide a foundation for reflection and discussion, helping groups and individuals explore the theological themes and historical context. The scriptures are essential for grasping the show’s message and its relevance to modern faith journeys.

6.3 Background Information

The study guide provides background information to enrich understanding of the historical and cultural context of The Chosen. It includes insights into 1st-century Israel, the role of shepherds, and the societal dynamics of the time. This section helps viewers connect the series’ narrative with real-world history, making the stories more relatable and impactful. The guide also offers details about the characters’ lives and the biblical setting, fostering a deeper appreciation for the series and its theological themes.