The Chosen Study

The Chosen Study

Get Used to Different

The Chosen Study

A welcoming and

interactive experience for everyone:

observers…skeptics…learners…seekers…followers.

Bill Syrios

The Chosen Study.orgWatch > Study > Discuss the

Most Audacious Story ever told.

©2021 The Chosen Study, Bill Syrios Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®),

©2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Photo images are from The Chosen. Season One and used by permission. Thanks to Michael Foster for his help with the That’s Plausible and Knowing Those Who Knew Him Best sections. The Chosen Study is not affiliated with The Chosen TV series.

ISBN: 978-0-9716683-3-1

The Chosen is a 2020 television drama based on the life of Jesus Christ, created, directed and co-written by American filmmaker Dallas Jenkins. It is the first multi-season series about the life of Christ, and season one was the highest crowd-funded TV series or film project of all time.

The series' creators stated that they had hoped to distinguish the new series from previous portrayals of Jesus by crafting a multi-season, episode-based story. The series portrays Jesus "through the eyes of those who met him.” -The Chosen, Wikipedia

https://tinyurl.com/chosenyoutube https://tinyurl.com/chosenfacebook

You can download The Chosen App on your devices and phone. To directly access The Chosen episodes, type in this URL:

https://tinyurl.com/thechosenstudy


Contents .

Welcome to The Chosen Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

What We Do . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Study Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Get Used to Different

The Shepherd: Pilot Episode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Pilot Study: Micah 5:2-5; Is. 9:2-7, 35:3-6; Luke 2:1-21

I Have Called You by Name: Episode 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Study 1: Luke 7:36-50; Notes

Shabbat: Episode 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Study 2: Genesis 2:1-3; Exodus 2:8-11; Matthew 12:1-8

Jesus Loves the Little Children: Episode 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Study 3: Matthew:19; 13-15; 18:1-6

The Rock on Which It Is Built: Episode 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Study 4: Luke 4:38-5:11; Notes

The Wedding Gift: Episode 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Study 5: Luke 2:40-52; John 2:1-12

Indescribable Compassion: Episode 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Study 6: Isaiah 40:3-5; Mark 1:40-2:12

Invitations: Episode 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Study 7: Numbers 21:4-9; John 3:14-15; 1-21

I Am He: Episode 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Study 8: Matthew 9:9-13; John 4:1-39; Notes

Review Your Chosen Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Background Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Leader’s Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Continuing on with The Chosen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

4 | The Chosen Study

Welcome to The Chosen Study .

Like the man himself, the accounts of Jesus’ life and ministry are unique in the field of literature. Ancient writings include historical accounts, personal memoirs, and mythological stories. But none of these styles describe how Matthew, Mark, Luke and John wrote.

They combine the roles of historian, biographer, theologian, and pastor. These “reporters” are not simply neutral observers but men who had been deeply influenced by the message they desired to communicate. Lacking literary precedent, second-century Christians called them Evangelists and their writings The Gospels.

The English word “gospel” comes from a Greek word which means “good news.” The four Evangelists wanted their readers to not only know how remarkable Jesus was, but to know how good his message becomes in the lives of those who embrace it.

To understand that message better we have selected the most comp- limentary passages from the four gospel writers that are portrayed in The Chosen. We’re glad to have you join in wherever you are, as an:

observer… skeptic…learner…seeker…follower… to more fully appreciate what those who knew Jesus best saw in him.

The Most Audacious Story Ever Told…Watched…Studied…Discussed

The Chosen Study, Season One provides an interactive group experi-ence of watching > studying > discussing nine episodes and studies.

The Chosen Devotional: 40 Days with Jesus can be divided into five readings per week over eight-weeks for reflection and prayer.

Optional

eight-week

Chosen

Devotional with daily

readings.

Welcome | 5

Where We Got Jesus’ Story

Early tradition identifies Matthew, Mark, Luke and John as the ones who introduced Jesus to the 1st Century world and to ours. Their portrait of him is both curiously unique and remarkably consistent.

MATTHEW: We can only imagine the initial tension between Matthew (also called Levi) and the other disciples of Jesus given his occupation as a tax collector for the Roman government. But reconciliation lay at the heart of Jesus’ message (see The Sermon on the Mount, Matt. 5-7). Matthew’s Gospel emphasizes the interconnectedness between the Old and New Testament and provided young believers a syste-matic tutorial of Jesus’ teaching.

MARK: This Gospel has been generally recognized as the first-hand account of Peter. Mark begins his first “sentence” with no verb: “The beginning of the Gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God.” His last sentence ends with women fleeing Jesus’ empty tomb “because they were afraid.” For Mark, Jesus is a man of action. To help believers facing persecution from the Roman state, Mark focuses on Jesus as the Suffering Servant who “came to serve” (Mark 10:45).

LUKE: An educated Greek physician and traveling companion of Paul, Luke authored the book of Acts and the Gospel that bears his name. Although Luke never met Jesus himself, he had a close relationship with Paul and was acquainted with most of the key eyewitnesses who knew Jesus (Luke 1:1-4). After extensive interviews from these contacts, Luke begins, “Since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account” (Luke 1:3).

JOHN: “In the beginning was the Word,” John writes, offering a rath-er obvious parallel to the opening words of Genesis. In the first Gene-sis God spoke creation into existence and in the “second Genesis” God speaks redemption into existence: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14). This “Word made flesh” is the One John wants his readers to encounter.


What We Do .

The Chosen Study includes nine episodes/studies. We typically . . .

-Meet for ten weeks (including a review) and develop friendships.

-Start with a meal or finger food to relax and enjoy each other.

-Have no need to bring Bibles. This guide includes all passages used.

-Share at our comfort level. No one is asked to sing, pray or read aloud.

-Are facilitated by a leader who guides group discussion and pace.

Eating with meeting is a great combination for a group! ‘

EXAMPLE of a GROUP GATHERING

5:45 ARRIVE: 15 min. to gather

6:00 DINNER: 30 min. to relax/eat

6:30-8:30 THE CHOSEN STUDY

Watch | Discuss | Study | Discuss

Flexible Size Options

One-to-One Small Group Large/Small Get-Togethers or Meetings or Group Gathering

One-to-one studies will obviously be led differently than a small group or in a setting that includes both a small and large group component. To watch previously led large/small group gatherings for the John, Life, and Paul Studies see “Studies” at TheChosenStudy.org. Also there are Leader’s Notes on the next page and pages 77 to 83.

What We Do | 7

Flexible Time Options

How much time does your group have to meet? This helps planning.

Longer: To watch > study > discuss as set out in this guide will take groups two hours or so depending on the length (23 to 59 minutes) of the particular episode. (Recommended as being the most impactful.)

Medium: If your time is more limited, say one and a half hours, you can skip some questions. The challenge comes in pacing the group.

Shorter: If group members have an even more limited amount of time, say an hour, they could 1) watch the episode/take notes and even 2) study the passages before coming, Then, as they meet, they would discuss what they watched and studied from their preparation. (This

option is not preferable because prior prep work is often inconsistent.)

Sharing and Prayer: Our commitment is for everyone to feel respected for where they are spiritually. So, be very considerate to avoid “insider-type” sharing and prayer that typical Bible studies groups might do.

Pace your group to leave adequate time to personalize the study by discussing the “Relate” section at the end of each study, (And, do so in a way that is consistent with your particular group members.)

Where: Hotels, offices, cafés, churches, bars, prisons, colleges, homes.

TheChosenStudy.org: Watch > Study > Discuss

It’s Realistic— High quality film

depiction to watch

and discuss.

And It’s Real— Relevant scriptural

passages to study

and discuss.


Study Format DISCOVER The Message RELATE

Example from Episode 1 I Have Called You by Name (Watch > Review Questions > Discuss, 54 min.)

The Scripture study/discussion times are intermixed with the episode watching/discussion times to promote the learning process.

Example from Study 1 . Jesus, Simon and the Woman: Luke 7:36-50

DISCOVER: Who | What | Where | When | How | Why

Look for the W’s:

WHO is involved | WHEN did it happen | WHERE is it happening | WHAT is taking place | HOW is it happening… and then ask... WHY questions regarding what the author’s message is about.

Mark It Up: Use a four-colored BIC pen or a variety of colored pens or pencils. Don’t worry about getting it perfect, just MARK IT UP!

Use Pen(s) to Draw: Example --Circles around people or places. --Boxes around whatever you’d like. --Underlines of key words/phrases. --Clouds wherever you feel like it. --Identify change of scene, watch for contrast, repetition, key words, etc. --Write notes.

RELATE how It applies: To God | Life | People | You | etc.

Express Your Thoughts: Write and discuss how you see the passage ap-plying to your life, and where you are with God, with other people, your career, priorities, values, future goals, etc.

Study Format | 9

“sort” of woman

Uninvited & Compelled

Note the action words Inappropriate in public

Inappropriate to Simon

To check Jesus out

WATCH > REVIEW QUESTIONS / TAKE NOTES > DISCUSS . . . .

EXAMPLE FROM LUKE 7: 36 One of Pharisees asked Jesus to eat with

him, and he went into the Pharisee’s house and took his place at the

table. 37And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she

learned that he was reclining at table in the Pharisee’s house, brought

an alabaster flask of ointment, 38and standing behind him at his feet,

weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears and wiped them

with the hair of her head and kissed his feet and anointed them with

the ointment. 39Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw this,

he said to himself, "If this man was a prophet, he would have known

who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a

sinner." 40And Jesus answering said to him, "Simon, I have something

to say to you." And he answered, "Say it, Teacher.”…

READ /STUDY > DISCUSS . . . RELATE . . . .

Watch the Episode

Watch the episode at least twice: prior to getting together AND when meeting together.

Review Questions

When watching together review the questions (and take notes as your time allows).

Discuss the Episode

Keep the group’s pace moving along to fit your available time. If necessary, leave out questions.

Read/Study Passage

Spend five to fifteen minutes of personal study to mark up the text. (And be colorful!)

Discuss the Passage

The Study leader facilitates his or her group’s experience with the passages. (See pages 77-83.)

Relate the Passage

Write down and discuss how the passage relates to your life, future, priorities, etc.


Notes

Prior to The Pilot Study .

From the pilot episode, The Chosen’s creators crowdfunded over ten million dollars to fund season one. Their high quality, multi-season show has brought in a large and enthusiastic following. Episode 0 is the shortest episode, making for a more relaxed first group meeting.

-Begin your gathering by exchanging names and some interesting/fun personal information. The leader facilitates your time together.

-Talk through the group and study process briefly found on pages 3-9. (Review these pages for new people who come to the group.)

-Read aloud the passages from the Old Testament (pages 11-12).

-Spend some time in personal study with your BIC pen or pen pack.And please don’t worry about getting things perfect. Just mark it up!

-Discuss the OT passages prior to watching the episode and continue.

Pilot Episode | 11

The Shepherd

Pilot Study: 0 . DISCOVER: Who | What | Where | When | How | Why

INTRO: The Old Testament prophets called on Israel to be ready for the coming Messiah. In Episode 0 we will be introduced to three pro-phetic Scriptures. But were the Jewish leaders properly looking?

The Ruler to Be Born in Bethlehem MICAH 5 2 But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel,

whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. 3 Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has given birth; then the rest of his brothers shall return to the people of Israel. 4 He shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth. 5 And he shall be their peace.


For to Us a Child is Born ISAIAH 9 2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. 3 You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divided the spoil. 4 For the yoke of his burden, and the staff for his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. 5 For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire. 6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

ISAIAH 35 3 Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. 4 Say to those who have an anxious heart, “Be strong; fear not! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you.” 5 Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; 6 then shall the lame man leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute sing for joy.

Pilot Episode | 13

Read > Study > Discuss: Parts of these three prophetic passages will be read in the episode. How do they describe the coming of the Messiah?

How do they describe the Messiah himself?

What will be the results of his appearing?

Pilot Episode: Watch > Review Questions > Discuss (23 min.)

How would you describe the shepherd’s encounter?

With the religious leaders:

With Joseph and Mary:

With the angelic hosts:

With the baby Jesus:


PILOT STUDY cont. DISCOVER: Who | What | Where | When | How | Why

The Birth of Jesus Christ

LUKE 2 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all

the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when

Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be registered, each

to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the

town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called

Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be

registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 While they

were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth

to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him

in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

The Shepherds and the Angels 8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field,

keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the

Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them,

and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them,

“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be

for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a

Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you

will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a

manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the

heavenly host praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”

Pilot Episode | 15

15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds

said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing

that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And

they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying

in a manger. 17 And when they saw it, they made known the saying

that had been told them concerning this child. 18 And all who heard it

wondered at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured up

all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds

returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen,

as it had been told them. 21 And at the end

of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the

name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

Read > Study > Discuss: What stands out to you about Jesus’ birth?

What about his birth would serve to correct misconceptions about who the Messiah would be?

RELATE how it applies/discuss: To God | To Life | To People | To You

Let’s say you had never heard the story of Jesus’ birth. What would surprise you about it or attract you to it?


Does Jesus’ birth story make him more appealing to you? If so, how?

Notes | Quotes | Emotions | Prayer Concerns | Commitments

NOTE upcoming Episode/Study 1:

Some people like to do prior preparation and that’s great. There is no expectation of such preparation (unless your group, including you, decide to do so). That being said, here’s an exception: Because episode/study 1 is longer than most, it would be helpful to watch the episode AND study Luke 7:36-50 (pages 19-20) before your group meets. At least read it over and look through the questions.

Start with introducing any new people. Right before you study Luke 7 you could reacquaint your group with the format on pages 8-9.

Episode One | 17

I Have Called You by Name Episode 1 . Watch > Review Questions > Discuss (54 min.)

What stood out to you about each person and their situation?

Nicodemus:

Andrew:

Peter:

Matthew:

Mary:

The Scripture Mary’s father used to comfort her as a girl: Thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. -Isaiah 43:1


GO DEEPER as time allows

--How would you characterize Matthew’s dilemma as a tax collector? Andrew and Peter’s dilemma as overtaxed fishermen?

--How does Nicodemus react to his failure to deliver Mary’s demons?

--What did you think about the timing of Jesus’ appearance to Mary in the tavern (The Hammer)? His quoting of Isaiah 43:1 to her?

--Between Nicodemus, Andrew, Peter, Matthew and Mary, which character did you identify with the most? Why?

STUDY 1 DISCOVER: Who | What | Where | When | How | Why

INTRO: Mary Magdalene was from Magdala, a fishing town on the western shore of Sea of Galilee. She is referenced twelve times in the New Testament. Luke 8:2-3 lists her as one of the women who traveled with Jesus and helped support his ministry. That same passage says that seven demons were driven out of her.

She ends up being a witness to the crucifixion, the empty tomb and the first to see the risen Christ. It is possible she is the woman described in the following passage. Whether it is actually her or not, this story certainly de-scribes the kind of person she became.

Jesus’ Message: A Debt, Forgiveness and Love

LUKE 7: 36One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to eat with him, and he

went into the Pharisee’s house and took his place at the table. 37And

behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that

he was reclining at table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster

flask of ointment, 38and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she

began to wet his feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of

her head and kissed his feet and anointed them with the

ointment. 39Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he

said to himself, "If this man was a prophet, he would have known who

and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a

sinner." 40And Jesus answering said to him, "Simon, I have something

to say to you." And he answered, "Say it, Teacher.” 41"A certain

moneylender had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and

the other fifty. 42When they could not pay, he cancelled the debt of

both. Now which of them will love him more?" 43Simon answered,

"The one, I suppose, for whom he cancelled the larger debt." And he

said to him, "You have judged rightly.” 44Then turning toward the

woman he said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I entered your

house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet

with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45You gave me no kiss,

but from the time I came in she has not ceased to kiss my feet. 46You

did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with

ointment. 47Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are

Episode One | 19


forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves

little." 48And he said to her, "Your sins are forgiven.” 49Then those who

were at table with him began to say among themselves, "Who is this,

who even forgives sins?" 50And he said to the woman, "Your faith has

saved you; go in peace.”

Read > Study > Discuss: How did Simon and the woman differ in the recognition of their debt, their experienced of forgiveness, and the response each of them made?

How does the parable illustrate the debt, forgivness offered and response made? Write your thoughts on the chart if helpful.

Simon Woman _________________________________________________________________________________

Debt (Recognized) _________________________________________________________________________________

Forgiveness Offered _________________________________________________________________________________

Response Made _________________________________________________________________________________

Review the notes on the next page. Was the main issue the debt owned by each or the recognition of the debt they owed? How so?

Episode One | 21

NOTES on Study 1

Luke 7:36-50—Jesus’ Message: A Debt, Forgiveness and Love

• The issue of being religious but unloving (Simon) versus being non-religious—“a sinner”—but loving (the woman) provides us the chal-lenge of who we are like more. Do we come to God on our own termsin self-righteous pride, or on his terms, in humility?

• The gospel message is vividly portrayed in the story and parable: 1)We all have an unpayable debt (as sinners), 2) debt is canceled(through forgiveness), resulting in 3) a renewed response (love).

• The issue that love is a result of experiencing forgiveness, not theother way around, is seen in the woman’s motivation. When it comesto God we don’t start loving, we start with being loved.


What has it, or might it, mean to you to have your sin debt com-pletely forgiven and be reconciled to God as your loving Father?

Where would you place yourself on this continuum with a “X” that best describes your relationship with God/Jesus right now? Explain.

Observer… Skeptic… Learner… Seeker… Follower…

Do you want to move further to the right? What would that involve?

Episode 1 highlights Isaiah 43:1—the affirmation of being created, redeemed and called by name by God—and how Jesus powerfully changes the course of Mary’s life. Luke 7:36-50 gives us insight as to what such a changed life could look like.


How has (or could) such an experience of God’s pursuit of you—creating, redeeming and calling you by name—change the course of your life?


THAT’S PLAUSIBLE, but did it happen?

Was Peter married? Yes, but we don’t know her name (Mk. 1:29-31).

Did Matthew collect taxes from Peter and Andrew? We do not know from Scripture, but it’s possible. Matthew was a tax collector operating around the Sea of Galilee (Mark 2:13-14).

Did Nicodemus travel to Galilee to teach students? Maybe, but he met Jesus in Jerusalem not Capernaum (John 2:29-3:1).

Did Nicodemus try to heal Mary Magdalene? Mary was delivered from seven demons (Luke 8:1-2) but there is no record of Nicodemus ever meeting her, nor where it took place.

Was there an issue of people fishing on the Sabbath? It’s reasonable. Jews were under Roman occupation so when it comes to avoiding paying taxes you can be assured, they searched for any way possible, which for some meant violating the Sabbath.

Episode Two | 23

Shabbat

Shabbat Reading: Exalting God’s creation and Israel’s blessing

Now the heavens and the earth were completed, and all their hosts, and God completed on the seventh day all His work that He did. And God abstained on the seventh day from all the work He did. And God blessed the seventh day, and He hallowed it, for thereon He abstained from all the work that God created to do. Blessed are you, Lord our God, Ruler of the universe, who created the fruit of the vine. You have lovingly and willing given us your Shabbat as an inheritance in mem-ory of creation. Because this is the first day of our holy assemblies in memory of the Exodus from Egypt. Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe, who brings forth the bread from the earth. Amen

Study 2 . DISCOVER: Who | What | Where | When | How | Why

INTRO: The Shabbat or the Sabbath was introduced to Israel 4,000 years ago as a practice that celebrates God “resting” on the seventh day from the work of creation. His example was given to the Jewish people as a weekly opportunity to slow down, reassess and focus on what is really important: our family, our friends and God himself.


The Seventh Day, God Rested GENESIS 2 Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the

host of them. 2 And on the seventh day God finished his work that he

had done. 3 So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, be-

cause on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation.

Remember the Sabbath EXODUS 2 8 “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. 9 Six days

you shall labor, and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sab-

bath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, you, or

your son, or your daughter, your male servant, or your female ser-

vant, or your livestock, or the sojourner who is within your gates. 11 For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that

is in them, and rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed

the Sabbath day and made it holy.

Read > Study > Discuss: What do you learn here about the origin and meaning of the Sabbath?

Its place in the life of the people of Israel?

The thought of God resting is odd. What do you think it implies?

Episode Two | 25

Episode 2: Watch > Review Questions > Discuss (54 min.)

What stood out to you about each of the four Shabbat meals?

Matthew and his dog:

Peter, Eden and Andrew:

Nicodemus, Zohara & Company:

Mary, Jesus & Company:


--What strikes you about Matthew’s earnestness with Quintus? His relationship with Gaius? His lack of relationship with his family?

--What do you think of Mary’s description of her change to Nicodemus?

--What is Peter’s difficult dilemma and how does he seek to resolve it? Described the uncomfortable conversation with his wife, Eden.

--When Mary opened the door to Jesus, how would you describe her response to “the man who helped me”? his response to her, in-cluding his reluctance to take over leading the Shabbat ceremony?


Study 2 cont. DISCOVER: Who | What | Where | When | How | Why

INTRO: Jesus’ earliest followers did something radical with the Sab-bath’s day celebration and that was to change it from Saturday to Sunday. They felt compelled to do so because they believed some-thing of world altering proportion happened on Easter Morning which validated Jesus’ claim that he is indeed “Lord of the Sabbath.” This claim became applicable in this story as Jesus endorses his disciples’ actions that appear to violate the law of keeping the Sabbath holy.

MATTHEW 12 At that time Jesus went through the grain fields on the

Sabbath. His disciples were hungry, and they plucked heads of grain

to eat. 2 But when the Pharisees saw it, they said to him, “Look, your

disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath.” 3 He said

to them, “Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, and

those who were with him: 4 how he entered the house of God and

ate the bread of the Presence, which it was not lawful for him to eat

nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests? 5 Or have

you not read in the Law how on the Sabbath the priests in the temple

profane the Sabbath and are guiltless? 6 I tell you, something greater

than the temple is here. 7 If you had known what this means, ‘I desire

mercy, and not sacrifice,’ you would not have condemned the

guiltless. 8 For the Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath.”

Read > Study > Discuss: What are the Pharisee’s values regarding the Sabbath?

Jesus’ values regarding the Sabbath?

Episode Two | 27


How would Sabbath rest differ from either sleep or vacation?

How might you make better use of the Sabbath as a weekly reset?

How could recognizing the Sabbath in your life improve your relation-ship with God, your family, others and your own sense of wellbeing?

Schedule some time (maybe next Sabbath) to set aside and evaluate your schedule, pace of life and how well you are living on the basis of your priorities. Then ask: What changes should I consider making?

Have you discovered TheBibleProject.com? When time allows, watch their Sabbath video: bibleproject.com/explore/what-is-the-sabbath




Were the disciples as young as Matthew looks? Likely 15 to 30. A clue comes from Matt. 17:24-27 where only Jesus and Peter paid the temple tax, something required of those age 20 and older. So, the others may have been younger than 20.

Did the Jews save a seat for Elijah during the Passover? Yes, traditionally Jews do this during Passover (not every Sabbath) to honor the expectation that Elijah would come again to prepare the way for Messiah (Malachi 4:5). Jesus indicates in Matt. 11:14, how-ever, that John the Baptist fulfilled this expectation of his ministry.

Did Peter really betray the other fishermen? There is no record that he had a “tax problem,” but it is not an unfair development given what we do know about Peter from the Gospels.

Did Matthew approach Rome with concern about Peter? Matthew may have been acquainted with Peter and Andrew but we have no record of such a connection prior to following Jesus.

Is the wife of Nicodemus, Zohara, in Scripture? She is not mentioned, but her character in The Chosen helps to dem-onstrate the divergence of opinion beginning to surface about Jesus between Nicodemus and others in his circle.

Episode Three | 29

Jesus Loves the Little Children

You are all so very special. And I hope that my next students ask the same questions you do and that they listen to my answers. But I suspect they do not have the understanding you do. And I hope when the time comes they will tell others about me like you have.

-Jesus to the children, Episode Three


INTRO: Who doesn’t like kids? Well, Jesus’ disciples for one. Like us, they found children lovable but inconvenient. Not Jesus.

Matthew 19: 13 Then children were brought to him that he might lay

his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people, 14 but

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them,

for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” 15 And he laid his hands

on them.


Who Is the Greatest? Matthew 18: The disciples asked Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the

kingdom of heaven?” 2 And calling to him a child, he put him in the

midst of them 3 and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and be-

come like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the king-

dom of heaven. 5 “Whoever receives one such child in my name re-

ceives me, 6 but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe

in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone

fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.

Read > Study > Discuss: Compared to the disciples what is characterizes Jesus’ interaction with children?

How does Jesus consider children object lessons for faith? What is it about their faith he wants his disciples to emulate?


What stood out to you about these children’s questions to Jesus? about his response to them?

How does he teach them in a playful and purposeful way?

Episode Three | 31


Jesus Begins His Ministry LUKE 4: 14 And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee,

and a report about him went out through all the surrounding coun-

try. 15 And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all. 16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up. As was

his custom, he went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and he

stood up to read. 17 And the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to

him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written, 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,

because he has anointed me

to proclaim good news to the poor.

He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives

and recovering of sight to the blind,

to set at liberty those who are oppressed, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.”

20 And he rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the attendant and sat

down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. 21 And

he began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in

your hearing.” 22 And all spoke well of him and marveled at the

gracious words that were coming from his mouth. And they said, “Is

not this Joseph's son?” 23 And he said to them, “Doubtless you will

quote to me this proverb, ‘“Physician, heal yourself.” What we have

heard you did at Capernaum, do here in your hometown as

well.’” 24 And he said, “Truly, I say to you, no prophet is acceptable in


his hometown. 25 But in truth, I tell you, there were many widows in

Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heavens were shut up three

years and six months, and a great famine came over all the land, 26 and Elijah was sent to none of them but only to Zarephath, in the

land of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow. 27And there were many

lepers in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha, and none of them

was cleansed, but only Naaman the Syrian.” 28 When they heard these

things, all in the synagogue were filled with wrath. 29 And they rose up

and drove him out of the town and brought him to the brow of the

hill on which their town was built, so that they could throw him down

the cliff. 30 But passing through their midst, he went away.

Read > Study > Discuss: Jesus comes back to his hometown to declare the beginning of his ministry. How does the Scripture from Isaiah de-scribe what he is about?

What are the implications of him concluding, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing”?

Why do you think his hometown is so hostile to him?

Put yourself in that synagogue hometown audience. What questions would you have had about Jesus? What, do you imagine, your response to his statement would have been?

Episode Three | 33

Reading: Precious from The Chosen Devotional, as time allows

Read (even mark up!) Precious from The Chosen Devotional:

Sometimes the disciples were ridiculous. No doubt some of the child-ren were brought to Jesus needed to be healed—the whole point was for Jesus to lay hands on them, something parents of sick kids would be desperate to do. So not only were the disciples saying no to kids coming forward, but they were likely saying no to sick kids as well. Not exactly a Make-A-Wish moment.

And Jesus was indignant, which revealed His heart toward them. To Jesus from precious little people, to hinder access to Him in any way, provoked His righteous anger. Because not only were the children vulnerable and in need—they were the exact representation of those He came to save.

“The kingdom of God belongs to such as these” (Mark 10:14 NIV).

Children are simple. They’re appropriately awestruck by the world around them. They’re wide-eyed and expectant and moldable and trusting. By nature they aren’t jaded or judgmental—those qualities come with age, along with self-focus, self-reliance, self-protection, self-promotion and self-praise. On the contrary, children (most of them, anyway) are willing to defer and to receive, to climb into the Savior’s lap and be cared for, to be led and loved on.

The children approached Jesus in a way we’re supposed to emulate.

“’Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.’ And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them” (Mark 10:15-16).

Jesus rebuked the disciples for putting restrictions on access to Him, and the same goes for us. Our preconceived ideas about how rela-tionship with God works, and our lofty opinions about how it should work, restrict our ability to receive all He has for us. Our religious merit systems restrict us—we’d rather earn our way onto His lap. Our disappointments, bitterness, and defensiveness restrict us. Our shame


and guilt and insecurity restrict us. Our pride in our appearance and accomplishments restricts us. Our desire to control our lives restricts us. All of it keeps us from coming unhindered to the one who counts us precious.

The children went to Jesus without anything of value to offer Him except their love and excitement to be there. He wanted to spend time with them, hug them, and heal them. He wanted to. And we are precious to Jesus too when we recognize our need for His help, when we’re willing to defer, to receive, to be led, and to be loved on.

We’re precious when we come to Jesus with the simple expectation that because of who He is and how He loves, we’re welcome, for-given, and will be restored.

-Amanda Jenkins, Kristen Hendricks & Dallas Jenkins, page 146-148


How would a “childlike faith” have served the Jesus’ hometown well? What are ways such a faith serves you well as the way to grow in your relationship with God and others?

Jesus encourages us to strive for greatness.

Here’s the formula:

Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.... And whoever would be great among you must be your servant. -Matthew 18:4; 28:26

Episode Three | 35

The Mark of Greatness

We look to the ideal,

strive for excellence, and

pursue life’s supreme prize of

continued openness:

to listen,

to discern wisdom,

to implement change.

Humility,

resulting in a

willingness to learn

and to better oneself,

is the mark of greatness.

It brings us to the end of ourselves

where the Lover of our soul can begin.

Faith, hope, and love stand on it

and test its genuineness

over a lifetime.

Humility

is the paramount

character quality, our

most precious gift to those around us.

You haven’t arrived, but you know you’re getting closer

when you’re taken seriously by everyone—except yourself.

Clothe yourselves with humility toward one

another, because, “God opposes the proud

but gives grace to the humble.

1 Peter 5:5




Did Jesus hang out with kids like this? We have no record of Jesus encountering children early in his minis-try, but based on Matthew 18:1-6, 19:13-15, and 21:14-17, such sit-uations would not be surprising.

Did Jesus camp out on his own? There is no record of Jesus setting up a camp like this, but He did say “the Son of Man has no place to lay his head” (Luke 9:58). We know he stayed in homes of others later in his ministry, but we do not know of his situation early on.

What is the “Shema” that the children recited? The “Shema” is Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (including Deut.11:13-21 and Numbers 15:37-41). It is a confession that faithful Jews recited twice daily. “Shema” is the word “hear” that begins Deut. 6:4.

Did Jesus pray with such anguish to the Father? While there is no record of such anguish early on, Jesus certainly toils in prayer on the night of his arrest (Matthew 26:36-46). He also often withdraws from crowds to be alone with the Father (Mark 1:35). This depiction is not inconsistent with his practice.

Episode Four | 37

The Rock on Which it is Built

Episode 4 . Watch > Review Questions > Discuss (48 min.)

In this episode Peter is stuck. Before we read about the resolution in Luke 5, describe his crisis and how he seeks to deal with: The Romans/Quintus:

Andrew:

His wife, Eden:

God:



--Matthew and Nicodemus are also having their own crises of faith. Describe Matthew’s dilemma with what he has witnessed:

--Describe Nicodemus’ dilemma:

Study 4 DISCOVER: Who | What | Where | When | How | Why

INTRO: Jesus had gotten Peter’s attention but now he was looking for final buy-in and a vocational change of great purpose. If Jesus could make such a difference in Peter’s life, maybe there was hope for others of his contemporizes and for us as well! Jesus Heals Many and Calls Some LUKE 4: 38 He left the synagogue and entered Simon's house. Simon's mother-in-law was ill with a high fever, and they appealed to him on her behalf. 39 And he stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her, and immediately she rose and began to serve them. 40 When the sun was setting, all those who had any who were sick with various diseases brought them to him, and he laid his hands on every one of them and healed them. 41 And demons also came out of many, crying, “You are the Son of God!” But he rebuked them and not allow them to speak, because they knew that he was the Christ….

LUKE 5: On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on him to

hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, 2 and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of

them and were washing their nets. 3 Getting into one of the boats,

which was Simon's, he asked him to put out a little from the land.

And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. 4 And when he

had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and

Episode Four | 39

let down your nets for a catch.” 5 And Simon answered, “Master, we

toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the

nets.” 6 And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number

of fish, and their nets were breaking. 7 They signaled to their partners

in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled

both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 But when Simon Peter

saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am

a sinful man, O Lord.” 9 For he and all who were with him were

astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, 10 and so also were

James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon.

And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be

catching men.” 11 And when they had brought their boats to land, they

left everything and followed him.

Read>Study>Discuss: Peter was a fisherman and Jesus, a carpenter. Why does Jesus’ request in vs. 3-4 make no sense to a fisherman?

Why do you think Peter complied?

Describe the catch and Peter’s response to it. What does sin have to do with fish? Why do you think Peter had such a strong reaction?


Review the notes below. In Luke 4:38-39, Peter had witnessed the healing of his mother-in-law. Why do you think that he apparently did not respond to Jesus then but does so now?

Note Peter’s fear in vs. 8. Why do you think coming to grips with Jesus being Lord (even of his fishing business) is so frightening to him?

NOTES on Study 4

Luke 5:1-11—Receiving a Change of Vocation • Peter sees his mother-in-law healed by Jesus (4:38-44) so he knows

Jesus and has seen his power at work, though unconvinced.• It wasn’t until Jesus touched an area of his life that Peter considered

himself an expert (fishing) that Jesus really got his attention.• What does sin have to do with fish? Now Peter understands who he

is dealing with and who he is in comparison. Peter speaks as onewho has had an encounter with God himself (see Isaiah 6:5).

• Jesus gives Peter a new, grand vocation: to be “fishers of men.” Fearis inappropriate given that he will be with Jesus from now on.

Episode Four | 41


Have you suffered a similar crisis of faith as described here? How so?

How were you “caught up short” with your need to see God come through?

Did your sense of need in his provision “wear off” over time?

Where is Jesus in relation to “your fishing business”—a central area of your life (job, family, future goals, relationships): ___nowhere in sight right now

___on the horizon

___approaching the boat ___one foot in, one foot out ___fully in? Describe:

Jesus offers Peter a new vocation: catching people. What encourages you to make a deeper commitment to Jesus’ fishing enterprise?




Did John the Baptist call the Pharisees “snakes”? Yes, a “brood of vipers” in fact. (Luke 3:7). John was eventually thrown into prison, by Herod, not the Romans (Matt. 14:1–12 and Mk. 6:14–29). We have no record of Nicodemus visiting him in prison.

Did the Romans hire Matthew to “spy” on Peter? Doubtful. We know that Matthew collected taxes in the region of Galilee, where Peter and Andrew lived. We do not know if they knew each other before Jesus called them together, although it is possible.

Did Andrew try to convince Peter about Jesus? Yes. “The first thing Andrew did after meeting Jesus was to find his brother Simon and tell him ‘We have found the Messiah!’” (John 1:41). However, unlike the plot of The Chosen, Simon goes right away to Jesus, and Jesus changes his name to “Peter” (John 1:42).

What about The Chosen’s timeline regarding the disciples? Peter and Andrew, along with other disciples, followed Jesus before the miracle in Luke 5. So, although The Chosen depicts the catch as Peter’s first meeting with Jesus, he had prior encounters. Unlike in The Chosen, Simon’s mother-in-law was healed before the catch not after (spoiler alert for episode eight). Still, there is no doubt Peter is transformed by the miraculous catch and, with the other fishermen, commits to following Jesus wholeheartedly as “fishers of men.”

Episode Five | 43

The Wedding Gift


The Boy Jesus in the Temple

LUKE 2: 40 The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And

the favor of God was upon him. 41 Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem

every year at the Feast of the Passover. 42 And when he was twelve

years old, they went up according to custom.

43 And when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy

Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, 44 but

supposing him to be in the group they went a day's journey, but then

they began to search for him among their relatives and acquaint-

ances, 45 and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem,

searching for him. 46 After three days they found him in the temple,


sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them ques-

tions. 47 And all who heard him were amazed at his answers.

48 And when his parents saw him, they were astonished. And his

mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your

father and I have been searching for you in great distress.” 49 And he

said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I

must be in my Father's house?” 50 And they did not understand the

saying that he spoke to them. 51 And he went down with them and

came to Nazareth and was submissive to them. And his mother tre-

asured up all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus increased in wis-

dom and in stature and in favor with God and man.

Read > Study > Discuss: What do you learn about Jesus as a boy?


The Wedding at Cana

JOHN 2: 1 On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee,

and the mother of Jesus was there. 2 Jesus also was invited to the

wedding with his disciples. 3 When the wine ran out, the mother of

Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” 4 And Jesus said to her,

“Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet

come.” 5 His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.”

6 Now there were six stone water jars there for the Jewish rites of

purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. 7 Jesus said to the

Episode Five | 45

servants, “Fill the jars with water.” And they filled them up to the

brim. 8 And he said to them, “Now draw some out and take it to the

master of the feast.” So they took it. 9 When the master of the feast

tasted the water now become wine, and did not know where it came

from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the

master of the feast called the bridegroom 10 and said to him, “Every-

one serves the good wine first, and when people have drunk freely,

then the poor wine. But you have kept the good wine until now.” 11 This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and mani-

fested his glory. And his disciples believed in him.12 After this he went

down to Capernaum, with his mother and his brothers and his

disciples, and they stayed there for a few days.

Read > Study > Discuss: What is unusual about this miracle? What do you think went into Jesus’ decision to make it his first public miracle?


Focus on Nicodemus: What characterized his questions to John the Baptist and John’s answers? What is the central question that Nicodemus had regarding the nature of the Messiah?

Focus on Eden: What did Eden think of Peter’s description of his meeting Jesus and his new calling by Jesus?


Focus on Mary and the Miracle: How did Jesus’ consideration of his mother’s request mean that there was “no going back”?

Focus on Thomas: Describe his character from his interaction with Ramah, his business partner:

How would his failure in oversight of the party have been a crushing failure for him?

What do you think of Jesus’ interaction with Thomas and what is going on with his struggle to accept Jesus’ invitation?


--In what way do you relate to the wedding preparation, the groom and bride’s families, and the celebration itself?

--Who do you think knew that a miracle had taken place? How would it have affected them?

Episode Five | 47

--What do you think of Jesus using his divine power in the ordinary course of life (fish/wine)? his response to Peter about what’s next?


Do you find yourself wanting such “an ordinary (but important to you) miracle to happen? If so, what would it be?

If you don’t see what you hope to happen take place, how do you normally process disappointment with God?

Do you think there are better ways to process your disappointment with God? If so, how?




Is there any other account, beside Luke 2:41-52, of Jesus’ childhood? No. While it would be fascinating to know more about Jesus’ early family life, this is the only account we have.

Did Jesus’ entire family get invited to the wedding? Because the family of the wedding party knew Jesus’ family, as the show portrays, it’s likely (John 2:12). If that is the case some or all of Jesus’ brothers (he had four of them) and sisters (he had at least two of them) were also in attendance (Matthew 13:55-56).

Did Jesus build a privy? It’s very possible given his occupation pre-ministry. He was a carpen-ter (Mark 6:3) who learned his trade from his father (Matt. 13:55).

Would running out of wine have been that embarrassing? Yes. The show sets up the rich family/poor family wedding which serves to add a degree of drama, but such an event would have been humiliating and a bad way to start a marriage! The guests often traveled for miles to come and such parties could last for a few days.

Did Thomas serve at the wedding? We have no record of Thomas serving there or being called to follow Jesus then. The show’s portrayal of Thomas as a “measurer” and “doubter” is consistent with the character who later becomes known as “doubting Thomas” (John 11:16; 14:5-6; 20:24-29).

Episode Six | 49

Indescribable Compassion


INTRO: This passage from Isaiah will be read in this episode as the Pharisees wrestle with the meaning of John the Baptist’s ministry. ISAIAH 40: 3 A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.

4 Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. 5 And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken....”

Read > Study > Discuss: How does this describe John the Baptist’s role?



INTRO: Leprosy is a debilitating and disfiguring nerve disease. It can now be cured, but in pre-scientific Israel, it was misunderstood and feared. In fact, the rabbis said it was easier to raise the dead than to cure leprosy. This leper, like the paralytic described next, had no hope of a cure and was rejected by society (Leviticus 13:46).

Jesus Cleanses a Leper MARK 1: 40 And a leper came to him, imploring him, and kneeling said

to him, “If you will, you can make me clean.” 41 Moved with pity, he

stretched out his hand and touched him and said to him, “I will; be

clean.” 42 And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made

clean. 43 And Jesus sternly charged him and sent him away at once, 44 and said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone, but go, show

yourself to the priest and offer for your cleansing what Moses com-

manded, for a proof to them.” 45 But he went out and began to talk

freely about it, and to spread the news, so that Jesus could no longer

openly enter a town, but was out in desolate places, and people were

coming to him from every quarter.

Jesus Heals a Paralytic 2 And when he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was re-

ported that he was at home. 2 And many were gathered together, so

that there was no more room, not even at the door. And he was

preaching the word to them. 3 And they came, bringing to him a

paralytic carried by four men. 4 And when they could not get near him

because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him, and when

they had made an opening, they let down the bed on which the

Episode Six | 51

paralytic lay. 5 And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the

paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” 6 Now some of the scribes

were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, 7 “Why does this man

speak like that? He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God

alone?” 8 And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they thus

questioned within themselves, said to them, “Why do you question

these things in your hearts? 9 Which is easier, to say to the paralytic,

‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your bed and

walk’? 10 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on

earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic— 11 “I say to you, rise,

pick up your bed, and go home.” 12 And he rose and immediately

picked up his bed and went out before them all, so that they were all

amazed and glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!”

Read > Study > Discuss: What strikes you about these two miracles?


As Jesus ministry goes public, how would you describe each person’s situation, re-quest and reaction?

Pharisees’ view of John the Baptist:


The leper’s desperation:

Matthew and what he has seen:

Zebedee, Salome and people in the Eastern District:

Shamuel’s understanding of Isaiah:

The Egyptian woman (Tamar), the paralytic and his friends:

The Pharisees that show up at Zebedee’s house:

Nicodemus witnessing the paralytics’ healing:


--The leper’s enthusiasm is understandable. But what serious com-plications did his not following through on Jesus’ request cause?

--Describe the exchange between the scribes and Jesus. How does what Jesus says and does challenge their bias about him?

Episode Six | 53


There is a lot of compassion shown in this episode. What emotions did you have watching the scenes with the leper and the paralytic?

In the episode, Nicodemus says, “We are still students…. Our under-standing will never be complete.” If adopted, how would this attitude of humility make a difference in the life of our community/nation?

In your own life?

What is your spiritual edge or something your’s learning right now?

How can you go about pursing that with more passion and more commitment?




Did the catch of fish prepay Peter and Andrew’s taxes? It is safe to say that the large value of this catch went to Peter and the others’ families to financially sustain them in their absence.

Did Jesus grow up in Egypt and speak Egyptian? Joseph and Mary fled to Egypt to avoid the massacre of boys under Herod (Matt. 2:13-15). They returned to Nazareth after the death of Herod (Matt. 2:19-23). They may have lived in Egypt for several years, though there is no evidence that Jesus spoke Egyptian.

Did the Pharisees sell out John the Baptist to the Romans? No. John had called out Herod Antipas’ inappropriate relationship with Herod brother’s wife, Herodias. This made Herodias very upset and so Herod ordered John’s arrest. (Matt. 14:1-12, Mark 6:14-29, Luke 9:7-9)

Did Joseph die before Jesus began his ministry? Probably, because there is no mention of him after Jesus begins his ministry. Joseph is last named in Luke 2:48.

Was Jesus constantly teaching parables? It is likely that Jesus told many of his stories more than once and more intentionally later after He is further rejected (Matt. 13:10-17).

Did Nicodemus ask Mary for a meeting with Jesus? Unlikely. We know that Nicodemus “came to Jesus at night” (John 3:2) but we do not know how the meeting was arranged.

Episode Seven | 55

Invitations

Study 7. . DISCOVER: Who | What | Where | When | How | Why

INTRO: In the middle of the Exodus saga comes an odd story of God’s response to Israel’s continued rebellion. Jesus later picks up the imagery and applies it to himself and his mission in the world.

NUMBERS 21: 4 From Mount Hor

they set out by the way to the

Red Sea, to go around the land of

Edom. And the people became

impatient on the way. 5 And the people spoke against God and against

Moses, “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the

wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and we loathe this

worthless food.” 6 Then the Lord sent fiery serpents among the

people, and they bit the people, so that many people of Israel died.


7 And the people came to Moses and said, “We have sinned, for we

have spoken against the Lord and against you. Pray to the Lord, that

he take away the serpents from us.” So Moses prayed for the people. 8 And the Lord said to Moses, “Make a fiery serpent and set it on a

pole, and everyone who is bitten, when he sees it, shall live.” 9 So

Moses made a bronze serpent and set it on a pole. And if a serpent bit

anyone, he would look at the bronze serpent and live.

Jesus in John 3:14-15: “Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wil-derness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever be-lieves in him may have eternal life.”

Read > Study > Discuss: The snake on the pole has come to represent medicine’s curative power. What’s its significance in these passages?


What perspective does each person portray? Gauis and Quintus:

Focus on Nicodemus. Nicodemus with his wife, Zohara:

Jesus with Nicodemus:

Nicodemus with Jesus:

Episode Seven | 57

Focus on Matthew. Matthew and his mother’s dialogue:

Matthew’s response to Jesus’ call:

Peter’s reaction to Jesus’ call of Matthew:

Jesus initiating the dinner party at Matthew’s house:


INTRO: What follows is considered one of the weightiest passages in Scripture, indeed one of the most significant conversations in human history. Spend more time considering its implications.

You Must Be Born Again

JOHN 3 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a

ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Jesus by night and said to him,

“Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one

can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” 3 Jesus an-

swered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he

cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to him, “How can a

man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his

mother's womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to


you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the

kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that

which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you,

‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you

hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it

goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

9 Nicodemus said to him, “How can these things be?” 10 Jesus an-

swered him, “Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not under-

stand these things? 11 Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we

know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not re-

ceive our testimony. 12 If I have told you earthly things and you do not

believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? 13 No one

has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven,

the Son of Man. 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wil-

derness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes

in him may have eternal life.

For God So Loved the World 16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his Son, that whoever

believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did

not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order

that the world might be saved through him. 18 Whoever believes in

him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned

already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of

God. 19 And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world,

Episode Seven | 59

and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their

works were evil. 20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the

light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be

exposed. 21 But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that

it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.”

Read > Study > Discuss: How does Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus clarify his message?

What do you appreciate most about Jesus’ message to Nicodemus?


--Nicodemus is impressed by what he has seen Jesus do (vs. 2). What is surprising about Jesus’ challenge to him about being born again?

--Why do you think that Jesus uses this perplexing illustration? What do two births reveal about life with Jesus in the Kingdom of God?

--What does Jesus go on to say are the conequences for somone who is “born again” and those who are not?



John 3:16 is probably the most wel known verse in the Bible. What does John 3:16 mean to you personally?

What does the assurance of not being condemned for who you are or what you’ve done (spoiler alert for episode 8) mean to you?


Did Quintus express concern to Nicodemus about Jesus? There is no “Quintus or “Gauis,” in the Bible though there are centu-rions like them. The Gospels do show plenty of political tension early in Jesus’ ministry (Mark 3:6), but no such dialogue with Nicodemus.

Was Matthew rejected by his parents? The Gospels do not comment on Matthew’s parents, but the por-trayal of him as a traitor is how fellow Jews would have viewed him.

Did Nicodemus eventually become “born again”? It is likely as we see Nicodemus unashamedly identifying with Jesus twice later on (John 7:45-52, 19:38-42).

Did Matthew leave just like that when Jesus said, “follow me?” Matthew (9:9), Mark (2:14), and Luke (5:27-28) tell us that Matthew left everything and the show portrays the drama of that moment!

Did Peter initially reject the idea of Matthew joining their group? We have no record of this but it is not unlikely. Antiestablishment types like fishermen and establishment types like Matthew were bound to be at odds which led to plenty of tension and disagreement. Jesus knew that learning to value and care for each other would help prepare them to minister to the diverse people they would meet.

Episode Eight | 61

I Am He

Study 8 DISCOVER: Who | What | Where | When | How | Why

INTRO: Jesus had the uncomfortable propensity for hanging out with the wrong kind of people like this dinner party at Matthew’s house.

Jesus Calls Matthew

MATTHEW 9 9 As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man

called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow

me.” And he rose and followed him. 10 And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax

collectors and sinners came and were reclining with Jesus and his

disciples. 11 And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disci-

ples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 12 But when he heard it, he said, “Those who are well have no need of


a physician, but those who are sick. 13 Go and learn what this means: ‘I

desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the

righteous, but sinners.”

Read > Study > Discuss: What strikes you about Jesus’ perspective here?

Why are his priorities with people such a challenge to the the relgious leaders?

What are the implications of seeing Jesus as our doctor and, not say, as our employer?


What do we learn in this episode concerning:

The origin of Jacob’s well?

The dinner party at Matthew’s?

The Pharisees’ problem with Jesus?

Nicodemus wrestling with Jesus’ call on his life?

Jesus’ empathy for Eden? Solving her worry about her mother?

Episode Eight | 63


INTRO: Here is the biblical account at Jacob’s well of Jesus’ most un-likely of encounters with the most unlikely of persons.

Jesus and the Samarian Woman JOHN 4 Now when Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was making and baptizing more disciples than John 2 (though Jesus him-self did not baptize, but only his disciples), 3 he left Judea and departed again for Galilee. 4 And he had to pass through Samaria. 5 So he came to a town of Samaria called Sychar, near the field that Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6 Jacob's well was there; so Jesus, wearied as he was from his journey, was sitting beside the well. It was about the sixth hour. 7 A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give

me a drink.” 8 (For his disciples had gone away into the city to buy food.) 9 The Samaritan woman said to him, “How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a

drink from me, a woman of Samaria?” (For Jews have no dealings with

Samaritans.) 10 Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who

it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him,

and he would have given you living water.” 11 The woman said to him,

“Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where

do you get that living water? 12 Are you greater than our father

Jacob? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and

his livestock.” 13 Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will

be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I will give

him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become

in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” 15 The woman said

“Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here

to draw water.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Go, call your husband, and then

come here.” 17 The woman answered him, “I have no husband.” Jesus


said to her, “You are right in saying, ‘I have no husband’; 18 for you have

had five husbands, and the one you now have is not really your husband.

What you have said is true.” 19 The woman responded to him, “Sir, I

perceive that you are a prophet. 20 Our fathers worshiped on this moun

tain, but you say that in Jerusalem is the place where people ought to

worship.” 21 Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe me, the hour is coming

when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the

Father. 22 You worship what you do not know; we worship what we

know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23 But the hour is coming, and is now

here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit

and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. 24 God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and

truth.” 25 The woman said to him, “I know that the Messiah is coming (he

who is called Christ). When he comes, he will tell us all things.” 26 Jesus

said to her, “I who speak to you am he.” 27 Just then his disciples came

back. They marveled that he was talking with a woman, but no one said,

“What do you seek?” or, “Why are you talking with her?” 28 So the

woman left her water jar and went into town and said to the people, 29 “Come, see a man who told me all that I ever did. Can this be the

Christ?” 30 They went out of the town and were coming to him. 31 Meanwhile the disciples were urging him, saying, “Rabbi, eat.” 32 But

he said, “I have food to eat that you do not know about.” 33 So the disci-

ples said to one another, “Has anyone brought him something to eat?” 34 Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me

and to accomplish his work. 35 Do you not say, ‘There are yet four

Episode Eight | 65

months, then comes the harvest’? Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes. See

that the fields are white for harvest. 36 Already the one who reaps is

receiving wages and gathering fruit for eternal life, so that sower and

reaper may rejoice together. 37 For here the saying holds true, ‘One sows

and another reaps.’ 38 I sent you to reap that for which you did not labor.

Others have labored, and you have entered into their labor.” 39 Many Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the

woman's testimony, “He told me all that I ever did.”

What prejudices does Jesus break down by entering into a conversation with this woman (Photina)? How does she react?

Note vs. 10-15. Describe the conversation as it increasingly moves into deeper levels. Why did she miss the idea of “living water?”

What stands out to you about Jesus’ choice of this Samarian woman as his “first evangelist?”



--Review the notes on the next page. Leaving her water jar, the wo-man goes to tell her hometown about her remarkable encounter. Describe the dialogue about food between Jesus and his disciples.

--The disciples are just as confused about “living food” as the woman was about “living water.” How did meeting people’s needs bring the same kind of satisfaction to Jesus as food does to a hungry person?


What are some areas of life where people are thirsty and hungry for the truth?

Some parituclar friends, co-workers or family members of yours?

When was the first time you heard about Jesus and what were your impressions of him? How have they changed?

Episode Eight | 67

At what point did you first consider that Jesus might actually be able to meet your need for “living water” and “living food?”

How have you seen that become true in your life since then?

NOTES on Study 8

John 4:1-30—Having Our Thirst Quenched • Jesus is the master conversationalist. He breaks down conventions

(male/female, Jew/Samaritan, Rabbi/sinner), builds on commonality,avoids diversion and gets to the woman’s real need. This conversa-tion is a great example of building rapport, identifying a person’sneed and seeking to meet it in a meaningful way.

• The woman is an outcast in society (comes to the well alone at noon,has had “five husbands,” and much shame). Jesus offers her “livingwater” to meet her deepest need—a relationship with himself.

• Jesus’ offer is as radical as “living water” is to water (see Jn. 7:37-39).

NOTES on Study 8 cont.

John 4:31-45—Having Our Hunger Satisfied • Like living water that replenishes the spirit, there is “living food” that

sustains the soul. The disciples completely miss the point in theirfocus on ordinary food and wondering if Jesus had already eaten.

• Many pursuits can energize us, but for Jesus it is the work of God inthe lives of people that provides real satisfaction—forsaking smallambitions for the large ambition of meeting people’s deepest needs.

• Jesus becomes the local town’s living water through the woman’stestimony as many seek him out. This event lays the groundwork forthe Samaritans’ openness to Jesus’ message coming in Season Two!




Did Jacob dig a well that Jesus came to (and still exists today)? Although there is no specific record of Jacob digging a well, he came to Shechem, which is called Sychar in John 4, where he pitched a tent and built an altar (Genesis 33:18-20). The well in John 4 is called “Jacob’s well” and tradition identifies him as the one who dug it.

Was Simon Peter the only married disciple? Yes, as far as we know.

Did Jesus claim to be God as the Pharisee, Shmuel, contends? Yes. When Jesus healed the paralytic, he called himself the Son of Man (Mark 2:10). The Pharisees correctly understood this as identify-ing with the glorified being from Daniel 7:9-14, “one like the son of man.” This phrase is Jesus’ most used self-designation.

NOTE regarding upcoming Review:

While the first episode/study was the shortest, #8 is the longest. The suggestion is that you make your tenth week a Review Gathering with a meal to discuss, pray and celebrate your time together.

Review | 69

Review Your Chosen Experience

Review . . Consider the Questions > Write Your Thoughts > Discuss

Summarize your experience with The Chosen. What impressed you from the first season?

What did you learn from the studies? What have you been surprised by, encouraged by or challenged by?

What have you appreciated about your group experience?


Where would you have placed yourself on this continuum (with a smaller x) regarding your relationship with God/Jesus when you be-gan this study (see page 21)? Where are you now (with a larger X)?

Observer… Skeptic… Learner… Seeker… Follower…

If your perspective has changed, what has made the difference?

Reading: What Does It Mean to Be Chosen?

Take a moment to consider (even mark up!) the following reading.

Thing is, belonging to God isn’t about taking His help, provision and pro-tection whenever we feel like it. It’s about repenting and returning to our

Creator and one true King—the One who knows everything, controls everything, and works all things “together for good, for those who are called according to [God’s] purpose (Rom. 8:20).

When we repent and return to Him, our lives change and we become the people He intended for us to be—like our New Testament brothers and sisters. Because the change experienced by every follower of Jesus—whether living in the first century or the twenty-first century—can be summed up like this: I was. But God. And now.

Mary Magdalene was broken and ruled by evil, cut off, cast aside, and ashamed of who she’d become. But God rescued her, accepted her, and restored her. And now she’s remembered for being among those who faithfully followed Jesus—even financially supporting His ministry—and the first person He revealed Himself to after the resurrection.

Nicodemus was self-centered, proud, and confident in his own ability to lead. But God humbled him and was patient with his questions, even his lack of faith. And now he’s remembered for seeking answers from Jesus, which brought him a lot closer to actually having them.

Review | 71

Matthew was rebellious, isolated, and hated for serving the enemy. But God pursued him anyway, called him to follow, and welcomed him into His family. And now he’s remembered for serving Jesus, being one of the twelve apostles, and writing the first book in the New Testament.

Simon was self-sufficient, brash, and impulsive—“like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind” (James 1:6). But God revealed Simon’s limitations to him and called him to follow the One who has no limitations . And now Simon is remembered for being faithful and steady and for living up to the name Jesus gave him: Peter, which means “Rock.”

-Amanda Jenkins, Dallas Jenkins & Douglas S. Huffman, page 74-75The Chosen, An Interactive Bible Study, Season 1

Share some things from one of your Relate how it applies sections or from Notes | Quotes | Emotions | Prayer Concerns | Commitments or the previous reading that is of encouragement or challenge to you.

What new realities do you see about God/Jesus/direction in your life?


More Review Notes

Are there friends, co-workers or family members who you

would be interested inviting to a Study? (How about leading?)

To access each season of The Chosen, type in this URL: https://tinyurl.com/thechosenstudy Each Chosen season will have its own study guide: TheChosenStudy.org


Background Notes . Knowing those who knew Him Best

Mary Magdalene: One of several women mentioned in Luke 8:2-3 who had been “cured of evil spirits and diseases” and were following Jesus. Having been delivered from seven demons, she is with Jesus at the cross and is the first one Jesus appears to when He is risen. (Luke 8:2-3, John 19:25-27, John 20:1-18)

Nicodemus: A Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin, the supreme religious and political council in Jerusalem during New Testament times. His encounter with Jesus in John 3 is the occasion for the well-known verse John 3:16. He boldly steps in to help bury Jesus’ body with Joseph of Arimathea after the crucifixion. (John 3:1-21, 7:45-52, 19:38-42.)

John the Baptist: Miraculously conceived shortly before his cousin Jesus, he was the foretold forerunner of Jesus who called Jews to repent in preparation for Messiah. After a faithful ministry and baptizing Jesus, he was imprisoned for the threat he posed and eventually beheaded by Herod Antipas. Jesus identified him as the “greatest of those born of women.” (John 1: 6-34, Matt. 3, 11:1-19, 14:1-12, Luke 1:5-25, 57-80)

Andrew: One of the first to follow Jesus and brought his brother to Jesus right away. Together with Peter, along with fellow fishermen James and John, he leaves everything to follow Jesus after the miraculous catch. He also plays a key role in the feeding of the 5,000. (John 1:40-42, 6:8-9)

Peter: A fisherman known as Simon until Jesus renames him Peter, “the Rock.” He is brought to Jesus by his brother, Andrew, and follows Jesus thereafter. He is well known for walking on water, slicing off a soldier’s ear, denying Jesus before the cross, being a prominent leader in the early Christian movement and writing 1 and 2 Peter. (Matthew 16:13-28, Mark 14:66-72, John 1:40-42, Luke 5:1-11)

Zebedee, Salome, James and John: Zebedee and Salome are the parents of James and John who, along with Peter, become Jesus’ closest disci-ples. Appropriately nicknamed by Jesus as the “sons of thunder,” (Luke 9:54) they were Peter’s partners and, like him, left everything to follow Jesus after the catch of Luke 5. John goes on to write a Gospel, three letters, and the Book of Revelation. (Mark 3:17, Luke 5:1-11)

Background Notes | 73


Salome: Zebedee’s wife and the mother of James and John, Salome is named twice in Scripture but is highlighted several other times. Though not above asking favor for her two sons (Matthew 20:20-28) she is a devoted follower of Jesus and is there at his crucifixion (Mark 15:40) and resurrection (Mark 16:1). (Matthew 20:20-28, Mark 10:35-40)

Matthew: Also known as Levi, he was a despised tax collector when Jesus called him from his tax booth to follow Him. He “left everything and followed him” and invited many friends and coworkers to a dinner with Jesus. He also wrote the Gospel of Matthew. (Luke 5:27-32)

James the Younger and Thaddeus: Two lesser-known disciples. James, the son of Alphaeus, could have been Matthew’s brother (also the son of Alphaeus, Mark 2:14) but never identified as such. Thaddeus was known as Jude of James and Judas. He may have gotten his nickname because of the negative connotation that Judas’ name became or just to avoid confusion, maybe both. (Matthew 10:2-4, Mark 3:16–19)

Thomas: Best known for doubting Jesus through his words, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands… I will not believe” (John 20:25), Thomas is one of the twelve disciples and is the last of them to see Jesus after the resurrection. Once seeing him alive, he then proclaims, “My Lord and my God” (John 20:28). (John 11:16; 14:5-6; 20:24-2)

Mary, mother of Jesus: She was a teenager when God chose her to give birth to Jesus, who was conceived in her by the Holy Spirit. She raises Jesus with Joseph who married her after an appearance of an angel in a dream, and who probably died before Jesus began his ministry. She weeps at the crucifixion, witnesses the resurrected Christ, and, along with at least some of her other children, is part of the early church (Acts 1:14). (Luke 1:26-56, 2; 8:19-21; John 2:1-12, 19:25-27)

The Leper: An outcast and “untouchable" in his society (Leviticus 13:46), this particular leper receives compassion and healing from Jesus. Even Jesus touching him would have been shocking both to him and to any onlookers. He is only the first of many lepers and other social outcasts—the blind, lame, sick, paralyzed, demon possessed—that Jesus healed (Luke 17:11-19). (Matthew 8:2-4, Mark 1:40-45, Luke 5:12-16)

The Samaritan Woman: Stay tuned for more about her in Season Two!

Background Notes | 75

Quotes from Season One

Pilot. Shepherd to Pharisee: I have a question about the Messiah…. Do

you believe the Messiah will set us free from the occupation? Pharisee to Shepherd: Yes, he will make a great military leader. Shepherd: Are you sure?... Shepherd to Mary and Joseph after hearing the angels’ announcement: We’ve waited for this for so long, so long. What will you name him? Mary and Joseph: Jesus. Shepherd: People must know…. Pharisee: So, where is it? Have you found a spotless lamb for sacrifice?

1. Lilith to Nicodemus: We are not afraid of you. Zohara to Nicodemus:You did everything you could for her. Nicodemus: I can never forget whatI saw…. Zohara: You are the Teacher of Israel. You do not have questions, you have answers…. Nicodemus: What if we’re not seeing the whole pic-ture? What if it’s more beautiful and more strange than we can ever imagine? Jesus to Mary: That’s not for you…. Mary, Mary of Magdala….

2. Av Beit Din to Nicodemus: You yourself pointed out that the depth ofher demonic oppression was beyond human aid. Mary to Nicodemus: Idon’t understand it myself. But here is what I can tell you. I was one wayand now I’m completely different. And the thing that happened in be-tween – was Him. So yes, I will know him for the rest of my life! Mary toJesus: I’m so sorry; I don’t actually know your name…. Jesus: Mary, I’m honored to be here. Why don’t you begin? Mary: Oh no, I couldn’t. Now that you’re here, you must. Jesus: Thank you but this is your home….

3. Jesus to the children: You are all so very special. And I hope that mynext students ask the same questions you do and that they listen to myanswers. But I suspect they do not have the understanding you do. And Ihope when the time comes they will tell others about me like you have.

4. Simon to Eden: If I don’t catch a ton of fish or get some help somehow,they’ll arrest me…. Eden to Simon: Where is your faith? Simon: Faith isn’t going to get me more fish…. Eden: You have not pursued the Lord lately…. You’re off to try to fix it again… But no more talking. Maybe God can get your attention now. Andrew to Simon: We’re saved. I saw him with my own eyes. It was incredible. Simon: Who did you see? Jesus to Simon: Put that down for a catch…. Simon: I don’t have a quarrel with you, Teacher, but we’ve been doing this all night. Nothing.... Jesus: Lift your head, fish-erman…. Fish are nothing. You have much bigger things ahead of you.


5. Nicodemus to John the Baptist: I am looking in places I would never gobecause I am searching for an explanation for something I cannot unsee…. John: He is here to awaken the earth. But some will not want to waken. They’re in love with the dark. I wonder which one you’ll be. Peter to Eden: This is hard to explain…. The Teacher…he’s the Messiah.... I want to quit fishing…. Eden: I’m not upset…. You couldn’t make this up. Of course he chose you…. Someone finally sees in you what I’ve always seen. You are more than a fisherman. Peter to Thaddeus: Our Master, building a privy?! Mary to Jesus: They’ve run out of wine. Thomas: I see no logical solution to the problem. Jesus: It’s going to be like that sometimes, Thomas…. Join me and I will show you a new way to count and measure…. Ramah: I can’t pretend I didn’t see a miracle. He gave us even more than we need.

6. The Leper: Please don’t turn away from me. Jesus: I won’t. Jesus toSalome: It’s a pleasure to meet you too, Salome. Jesus: I’m Jesus of Naza-reth. Salome: Of course you are…. Where are my manners?! Nicodemus to Shmuel: If God did something that you felt contradicted the Torah, would you tell him to get back in that box that you have carved for him, or would you question your interpretation of the Torah? The Paralytic to Mary: What if you were me? Mary: I was you once. Peter to Mary: Can you believe we’re really here for this? Jesus to Tamar: Your faith is beau-iful. Abagail to Matthew: Are you lost? Matthew: Yes.

7. Matthew to his mother: My whole world, everything I thought I knew,what if it’s wrong? Nicodemus to Jesus: What have you come here toshow us? Jesus: A kingdom…. Nicodemus: My whole life I have wondered

if I would see this day. Peter to Jesus (about Matthew): Do you have any idea what this guy has done? Do you even know him? Jesus: Yes. Peter: I don’t get it. Jesus: You didn’t get it when I chose you either. Peter: But that was different. I’m not a tax collector. Jesus: Get used to different.

8. Jesus to Yussif: Go and learn what this means: I desire mercy morethan sacrifice. Eden to Jesus: Jesus, I wasn’t expecting you here. Jesus:People usually aren’t…. You have a role to play in all of this.... I see you. Eden to Peter: Thank you. Peter: Me? For what? Eden: For obeying and following him. It led him here. Jesus to his disciples: Did you join me for safety reasons? Samaritan Woman: You picked the wrong person…. I am rejected by others. Jesus: I know. But not by the Messiah…. It would be good if you believed me…. Soon, just the heart…. I promise.

Leader's Notes | 77

Leader’s Notes . So, you’re Interested in leading? Yea!

The Chosen Study.orgWatch > Study > Discuss the

Most Audacious Story ever told.

The Vision: Dallas Jenkins and The Chosen team have the stated goal of reaching a billion people with the message of Jesus and those who knew him best. They are on their way, translating the series into numerous languages. This guide and ministry are our loaves and fish-es’ attempt to help fulfill a fraction of their far-reaching aspirations.

Our Mission: Promote discussions of the life and teaching of Jesus and get to know new friends. Jesus called his disciples students. It’s who we are and what we do. As such we’ve seen something different in Jesus and invite others to join in to see the “Jesus difference” as well. So, no matter where someone is spiritually:

observer… skeptic… learner… seeker… follower...

all are welcomed, indeed encouraged, to join in and fully participate.

We’ve had, and expect to have, plenty of differences of opinion; viewpoints that are all over the spiritual map and we’re glad for that. Each person brings their own background. We’re not here to judge. We’re here to stir up discussion and happy to hear perspectives we are not accustom to hearing. It’s all part of Getting Used to Different!

So, who to invite? Everyone who is open to come and participate: The religious, skeptics, the non-religious, seekers—you name it. This is to be a fun, interactive place that values everyone and respects all viewpoints.

And it’s a place to share ourselves and develop deeper friendships!


The Chosen Study Leader: Where to start? You could begin small with just one friend, one-on-one, or look to gather together a new or existing small group.

What to do? Pray and invite. Encourage your group to do the same.

Read and even underline the key points on pages 4-9, 77-83. Facilitate watching—studying—discussing of the episodes/studies.

As interest grows: Recruit a team who invites others and who helps with

hospitality and group tasks (including, if desirable, meal prep). As groups grow they can stay larger but also break into smaller groups

for study and discussion to maximize sharing opportunities.

Combining small groups within a larger group: When a group starts off or grows larger (to say, a dozen or so), the larger size presents unique opportunities. Small groups provide a depth of intimacy that gives members more of a chance to partici-pate. Larger groups can bring together those small groups and offer a breath of give-and-take sharing that highlights the best insights.

Getting the best of both dynamics allows the facilitator to act in the role of a “dialogical (not monological) teacher,” bringing together main point conclusions and pressing their implications home.

As a small group leader, your goal is to foster a guided conversation. This is also true for large group leaders on a larger scale. High quality dialogical teaching brings a soft touch to the larger group interaction, allowing a breath of insight from the best that those among the small groups have to offer. Such a combination can be a thing of beauty!

A Chosen Study Team is a small group with a big purpose.

It is made up of those who have seen something “different” in Jesus and want others to experience that difference as well. The team

prays, plans, oversees the food, helps out, and invites friends, family members, co-workers and associates to join in.

Leader's Notes | 79

Leading your Group through each Section of this Guide

Before You Begin: Figure out how your group will get their guides. We have kept the guide price low so price is not an issue for anyone: TheChosenStudy.org/order. Have extras for those newly invited. If someone forgets their guide, they can access the pdf on the website.

We recommend getting a four-color BIC pen for each person (6 / 12-packs available through Amazon). Refer your group members to the back of the guide to write their name for easy identification.

Welcome to the Chosen Study /What We Do/ Study Format (p. 3-9): As the bottom of page 10 explains, go through pages 4-9 after the group has made initial introductions. (There are a variety of ways groups can configure themselves as describe on pages 6-7 and 78.) It is highly recommended to get the The Chosen Devotional which can be split into eight weeks of readings as page 4 illustrates.

Page 8 defines the format as DISCOVER --> The Message --> RELATE then gives an example from Luke 7 (Study 1) of how to study a pasage (extra points given for being colorful!). Depending on the passage’s length, the group should be given five to fifteen minutes to mark it up.

Important: A Mark It Up Study is different than a typical Bible studybecause your group has just spent some time in personal study. An “MIU study” takes this into account. So, instead of using the guide’s questions, the leader can start with very generalized questions like:

What did you see (observe/notice/appreciate) in this section? What strikes you (surprises you/is something new to you) here?

It’s not unusual for a group to engage in an extended back-and-forth dialogue from this observation question plus a few other follow-up questions to guide them. That’s your discussion goal. If this happens, you do not need to use many of the guide’s more specific questions.

So, if/when the dialogue wanes or wanders from the main points, you can then ask some of the specific questions given in the guide:

What does this... indication about...? / Why is... emphasized here?


GO DEEPER as time allows: Since pacing the group can prove chal-lenging feel free to leave questions out especially from this section.

RELATE how it applies/discuss: Pace your time to get to this part. End with prayer appropriate to where your group members are spiritually.

THAT’S PLAUSIBLE, but did it happen? This is a fun section that “calls out” The Chosen’s use of creative license. It is not really meant to be discussed unless you have extra time to do so. Avoid tangents in order to give the most time to the most important points.

Pilot Episode / Study (Page 10-16): The bottom of page 10 describes the way to begin a group. This shorter episode allows time for group members to introduce themselves and to go over the study process (p. 3-9) during this meeting. End your time with an overview of what to expect in your gatherings and instructions for next week’s study.

The study starts with three OT passages spoken in the synagogue during the episode. We recommend that group members watch episodes twice: once on their own for their entertainment value and then, a second time, with their group, to reveiw the questions (and take notes) as time allows. Here’s how the process works:

1) Watch the episode before the meeting (always recommended). 2) Watch it together as time permits, reveiw questions in the guide. 3) Acquaint yourself with the format and the example on pages 8-9. 4) Study the passage by using a BIC pen or a variety color pen pack.

Size / time / sharing / where considerations (page 6-7, 16). Our larger purpose is to foster an environment where people can grasp the

“Jesus difference.” How can your group process best accomplish that?

Episode/Study 1 (pages 17-22): Normally prior preparation is not assumed. However because of its length we’d suggest you encourage

your group to work on Study 1 before coming, if possible. Again, note the example of Luke 7 on page 9 on how to mark up a passage. Also, the study has an chart for the group to fill out and talk about.

Episodes/Studies 2 through 7: For a good flow some studies start with the episode and others (most) begin with a Scripture passage.

Leader's Notes | 81

Episode/Study 8: This is the longest episode of the season which ne-cessitates keeping up a good pace.

Review Your Chosen Experience (page 69-72). Hopefully you can include a meal as well. Some groups plan a fun, Saturday retreat event and end with a meal and review. To do so make sure that you cordinate schedules early. This is a great group bonding opportunity.

Background and Leader’s Notes (pages 73-83): Background Notes provide helpful information. Leader’s Notes support the effort to raise up leaders (facilitators) to promote The Chosen's goal of reaching a billion people, one family member, friend and co-worker at a time!

If you are on the fence about leading, consider Jesus’ challenging question to his disciples when they argued with him in Episode 8 about traveling through the hated Samaritan territory, a place con-sidered unclean and dangerous: Did you join me for safety reasons?

Four Ground Rules for Your Group

1. The Leader is a facilitator of discussion, guiding the group throughquestions rather than statements. He or she is responsible to pre-pare for, initiate and oversee the group process and pace.

2. Each Group Member “owns the group” and is thus seen as an im-portant contributor of comments and questions. Talkative mem-bers should learn to defer to others while quiet members speakout. Listening and learning from each other are to be encouraged.

3. Group Focus is controlled by its purpose. A Chosen Study allows theflim clip and Scripture passage to govern the discussion rather thancross-references or commentaries. Tangents are to be avoided orat least “tabled” until after the group meeting is over.

4. Personal Growth from the study of Jesus and his message alongwith relationships formed are all part of the group’s ultimate goal.Members should see themselves as more than just a study groupbut as a friendship group where consistency, self-disclosure, em-pathy, and accountability are important characteristics.


Eight Don’ts of Leading Group Discussions

You’re NOT a teacher, you’re a facilitator. To lead a highly productive group discussion start with what NOT to do and you’re halfway there!

1. Don’t answer your own questions. Otherwise, the group will look to you as “the teacher” rather than “the facilitator.” You’re not just the question asker—you can participate like any member—but don’t be the first one to answer your own question.

2. Don’t over-talk. Groups with an overtalkative leader will often sit back…in boredom! 90% of what we hear we forget, but 90% of what we say, we remember. So, your goal is to get your group talking…remembering…and learning.

3. Don’t be afraid of silence. Silence may mean you need to rephrase the question, but if you “bail out your group” during silence you set a bad precedence. To exercise patience, count in your head from 100 to 0 before answering if you have to. Oh yes, they’ll talk!

4. Don’t be content with just one answer. For every written question feel free to ask a follow-up question or two, like: “Does anyone else have a thought? This allows several people to respond.

5. Don’t expect group members to respond to you with each answer. They may be tempted to look straight at you solely, especially when the group is new. Instead, you want to see them talking to each other so you don’t have to “broker” the entire discussion.

6. Don’t reject an answer as wrong. Respond to questionable answers by asking, “How did you come to that conclusion?” or “There’s probably a difference of opinion here. Does anyone else have another way of looking at this?” Be affirming to everyone.

7. Don’t be afraid of controversy. Different opinions are good thing.

8. Don’t allow the group to end late. If the discussion proves very fruitful, officially end the group on time, giving the opportunity for those who choose to stay and discuss the issue in more depth.

Leader's Notes | 83

Eight Do’s of Leading Group Discussions

You don’t need to be an expert or a trained teacher to lead a discus-sion group. Your role is that of a facilitator who guides the group into a productive conversation that centers on the episodes and studies’ main points. It’s an honor to be able to serve your group in this way.

1. Pace the study. It’s the leader’s responsibility to both start and endon time. Keep up a flexible pace with one eye on the clock and theother on the content. There may be more questions than you havetime for, so if necessary, leave some out. Press ahead!

2. Give members the chance to study on their own. But they are freeto do so, or not. There is no expectation of prior preparation.

3. Have the Scripture passage read aloud. Or ask several to read.Some may feel uncomfortable to read in public, so don’t makesurprise assignments unless you know the person is good with it.

4. Conduct a discussion with the questions supplied. Feel free to askfollow-up questions. Your goal is to NOT get into one answerresponses but to start a “conversation” with several people re-sponding to a particular question in a back-and-forth way.

5. Involve everyone, more or less equally. Sit across from quietpeople to draw them out and next to talkative people to make lesseye contact. If helpful, go around the circle with a question.

6. Be on the alert for too-talkative people. Someone who over-talkscan suck the life out of a group. If this is a problem, talk to thatmember after the meeting and get them on your side by askingtheir help with getting everyone involve in the discussion.

7. Keep the discussion on track by avoiding tangents. Tangents mayseem important but can hurt purposeful discussion, leading thegroup to talk about less important things. “Important tangents”provide opportunities for conversation outside the group’s time.

8. Have fun with it. Yes, the more enjoyable, the better! Enough said.


Where Jesus began after being baptized by John in the Jordan

Continuing On | 85

Continuing on with The Chosen

One definition of genuine faith is giving all you know about yourself to all you know about God. This was sadly the opposite of what so many of Jesus’ contemporaries did, especially the religious leaders of his day. Instead of approaching God with humility they looked to impress him with their religious performance.

The more you hang around Jesus, the more you realize that he isn’t impressed with appearances. Maybe that’s why he—the servant-King, God’s Messiah—made no grand entry. Instead, Jesus shows up as a baby, born in dirty stable to a peasant girl in a non-descript town.

Then, for three years, he announces the Kingdom of God has arrived attended with spiritually intriquing stories and miracles, offers forgive-ness of sin and reconciliation to God the Father, finally culminating in his crucifixion, resurrection and ascension.

Something is going on here. You just can’t make this kind of stuff up. It’s all so strange and compelling. If nothing more, the story of Jesus is the very best story that humanity has to offer. The Gospel writers felt that same way and their eagerness to retell Jesus’ remarkable story to any who’d listen pours through their accounts.

Are you increasingly finding yourself caught up in Jesus’ story as well? Do you want it to more deeply influence your life? Then, take on what you learn. If Jesus says to love your enemies, try it out. Or, if he says to show hospitality like the Good Samaritan, then do it.

As you “try on Jesus’ teaching,” you will find it not only making sense, but that you will also need to look to him for the wisdom, strength and courage to take the risk of making some hard choices. Thankfully in this journey of faith his forgiveness is always close at hand.

Have you seen something different in Jesus?

Join a Chosen team or consider becoming a

Chosen Study Leader .

See TheChosenStudy.org for more resources.



Notes

About | 87

The Chosen Study.org

About the Author

Bill Syrios is a husband of 40+ years to Teresa, and father of four sons: Luke, Andrew, Phillip and Mark. He is a graduate of Fuller Seminary, has been on staff with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship and involved in several church plants. He leads The Chosen Study team.

Bill is also the founder of Stewardship Properties, a real estate investment company with offices in five states.

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The Chosen Study, Season One, focuses on Simon, Andrew, Nicodemus, Matthew and Mary Magdalene’s encounter with Jesus. This guide will give you and your group an indepth appreciation of their unexpected change of fortunes in getting to know him.

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