The Chosen, a multi-season television series based on the life of Jesus Christ, has been making waves in the Christian community since its release in 2019. Created by Dallas Jenkins and directed by Derral Eves, the show has garnered a massive following worldwide, with millions of viewers tuning in to witness the portrayal of Jesus’ life and teachings. However, amidst its growing popularity, a question has been circulating among fans and critics alike: Is The Chosen series Catholic?
Understanding The Spiritual Affiliation Of The Chosen
To answer this question, it’s essential to delve into the show’s production team, their spiritual backgrounds, and the creative decisions that have shaped the series. The Chosen is produced by VidAngel, a streaming service that offers a range of faith-based content. The company’s founders, Neal and Jeffrey Harmon, are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), commonly known as Mormons.
While the production team’s spiritual affiliation might raise eyebrows, it’s crucial to note that The Chosen features a diverse cast and crew from various Christian denominations. The show’s creator, Dallas Jenkins, is an evangelical Christian, and the series has been endorsed by several prominent Christian leaders, including Pastor Greg Laurie and Dr. Robert Jeffress.
The Catholic Church’s Stance On The Chosen
Despite the show’s popularity among Catholics, the Catholic Church has not officially endorsed The Chosen. In fact, some Catholic critics have raised concerns about the series’ portrayal of certain biblical events and characters. For instance, the show’s depiction of Mary Magdalene has been criticized for being too sensationalized and not entirely accurate.
However, it’s worth noting that The Chosen has been praised by some Catholic leaders for its ability to bring the Bible to life in a way that resonates with modern audiences. Bishop Robert Barron, a prominent Catholic evangelist, has commended the show for its “beautiful” and “moving” portrayal of Jesus’ life.
A Comparison of Catholic and Protestant Portrayals of Jesus
One of the primary differences between Catholic and Protestant portrayals of Jesus is the emphasis on sacraments and tradition. Catholicism places a strong emphasis on the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist, as a means of encountering Jesus. In contrast, Protestantism tends to focus more on personal faith and the authority of Scripture.
The Chosen series, while not explicitly Catholic, does portray some Catholic traditions and sacraments, such as the Last Supper and the baptism of Jesus. However, these depictions are not necessarily presented in a way that is unique to Catholicism, and the show’s overall emphasis on personal faith and relationships is more characteristic of Protestantism.
The Show’s Portrayal Of Mary, The Mother Of God
One of the most significant aspects of Catholicism is the veneration of Mary, the Mother of God. Catholics believe that Mary plays a unique role in the life of Jesus and the Church, and she is often depicted as a powerful intercessor and advocate.
The Chosen series portrays Mary as a strong and faithful woman who plays a crucial role in Jesus’ life. However, the show’s depiction of Mary is not necessarily Catholic in its emphasis or tone. While Mary is shown to be a devoted mother and follower of Jesus, her role is not presented as being uniquely sacramental or intercessory.
The Significance Of The Rosary In The Chosen
In one episode of The Chosen, Mary is shown praying the Rosary, a traditional Catholic devotion. While this depiction might seem to suggest a Catholic influence, it’s essential to note that the Rosary is not presented as a uniquely Catholic practice. Instead, it is shown as a way of praying and meditating on the life of Jesus, which is a common practice among many Christians.
The Show’s Use of Catholic Imagery and Symbolism
The Chosen series makes use of various Catholic imagery and symbolism, such as the use of candles, incense, and traditional liturgical music. However, these elements are not necessarily presented in a way that is unique to Catholicism, and they are often used to create a sense of atmosphere and reverence rather than to convey specific Catholic teachings.
Conclusion: Is The Chosen Series Catholic?
In conclusion, while The Chosen series is not explicitly Catholic, it does portray some Catholic traditions and sacraments. However, the show’s overall emphasis on personal faith and relationships is more characteristic of Protestantism, and its depiction of Mary and the Rosary is not necessarily Catholic in its emphasis or tone.
Ultimately, The Chosen series is a work of fiction that seeks to bring the Bible to life in a way that resonates with modern audiences. While it may not be perfect in its portrayal of Catholicism or any other Christian denomination, it is a powerful tool for evangelization and discipleship that can be appreciated by Christians of all backgrounds.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Production Team | The Chosen is produced by VidAngel, a streaming service founded by Neal and Jeffrey Harmon, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). |
| Spiritual Affiliation | The show’s creator, Dallas Jenkins, is an evangelical Christian, and the series has been endorsed by several prominent Christian leaders. |
| Catholic Church’s Stance | The Catholic Church has not officially endorsed The Chosen, but some Catholic leaders have praised the show for its portrayal of Jesus’ life. |
- The Chosen series is not explicitly Catholic, but it does portray some Catholic traditions and sacraments.
- The show’s overall emphasis on personal faith and relationships is more characteristic of Protestantism.
Is The Chosen Series Affiliated With The Catholic Church?
The Chosen series is not directly affiliated with the Catholic Church. While the show’s creator, Dallas Jenkins, has mentioned that he has Catholic friends and advisors, the series itself is a product of VidAngel Studios, a Mormon-owned production company. The show’s content is meant to be ecumenical, focusing on the life of Jesus and the early Christian church in a way that is accessible to people of different Christian denominations.
The show’s creators have made an effort to be inclusive and respectful of different Christian traditions, including Catholicism. However, the series is not officially endorsed or sponsored by the Catholic Church. Instead, it is a independent production that aims to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of the life and teachings of Jesus.
What Is The Spiritual Affiliation Of The Creator Of The Chosen Series?
Dallas Jenkins, the creator of The Chosen series, is a Christian and has stated that he is a non-denominational Christian. He has mentioned that he was raised in a Christian household and has a strong faith in Jesus Christ. However, he has not publicly identified with a specific Christian denomination, such as Catholicism or Protestantism.
Jenkins has stated that his goal in creating The Chosen series is to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of the life and teachings of Jesus, and to bring people closer to God. He has also emphasized the importance of ecumenism and unity among Christians, and has sought to create a show that is accessible and meaningful to people of different Christian backgrounds.
Does The Chosen Series Promote Catholic Theology?
The Chosen series does not specifically promote Catholic theology. While the show’s creators have consulted with Catholic advisors and have incorporated some Catholic traditions and practices into the series, the show’s content is not intended to promote a specific denominational perspective.
Instead, the series focuses on the life and teachings of Jesus, and explores themes that are common to many Christian traditions, such as the importance of faith, forgiveness, and redemption. The show’s creators have sought to create a series that is ecumenical and inclusive, and that promotes a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Christian faith.
Can Catholics Watch The Chosen Series?
Yes, Catholics can watch The Chosen series. While the series is not specifically Catholic, it is a Christian production that explores the life and teachings of Jesus in a way that is respectful and meaningful to people of different Christian backgrounds.
Many Catholics have reported finding the series to be inspiring and thought-provoking, and have appreciated its portrayal of the early Christian church and the life of Jesus. However, as with any media production, Catholics should approach the series with a critical eye and consider its content in light of their own faith and values.
Is The Chosen Series Based On The Bible?
The Chosen series is based on the Bible, but it is not a direct retelling of the biblical account. Instead, the series uses the Bible as a starting point and adds fictional characters and storylines to explore the lives and experiences of the people who lived during the time of Jesus.
The show’s creators have sought to be faithful to the biblical account, while also using their imagination to fill in gaps and explore themes and characters that are not fully developed in the Bible. The result is a series that is both grounded in scripture and imaginative in its storytelling.
Can Non-Catholics Watch The Chosen Series?
Yes, non-Catholics can watch The Chosen series. The series is intended to be ecumenical and inclusive, and its content is meant to be accessible to people of different Christian backgrounds.
The show’s creators have sought to create a series that promotes a deeper understanding and appreciation of the life and teachings of Jesus, and that explores themes that are common to many Christian traditions. As a result, the series is likely to be of interest to people of many different Christian denominations, as well as to those who are simply interested in learning more about the life and teachings of Jesus.
Is The Chosen Series Available To Stream?
Yes, The Chosen series is available to stream. The series is available on the VidAngel streaming platform, as well as on other streaming services such as Amazon Prime and YouTube.
Viewers can also purchase individual episodes or seasons of the series on DVD or digital download. The show’s creators have sought to make the series widely available, in order to reach as many people as possible with its message of hope and inspiration.