Writer Kate Orson explains her decision to boycott the popular Christian TV show The Chosen, but When a new Christian friend asked, ‘Have you seen The Chosen?,’ Orson’s response that she hadn’t surprised them. A few weeks later. The same friend was shocked that she hadn’t introduced the Netflix series to her family members who were ing the Bible.

Concerns About Biblical Accuracy

Orson’s primary concern is that the show is not biblically accurate. The show’s website claims it sticks close to scripture and uses ‘artistic license to fill in the many blanks where the text does not go into detail.’ However, Orson believes this artistic license sometimes goes too far.

One example she points out is a line in the show where Jesus mentions, ‘soon it will all be about the heart.’ Orson argues that this reflects new age spirituality, which emphasizes following one’s desires and what feels good. This contrasts with the Bible’s warning that ‘the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked,’ as stated in Jeremiah 17:9-10.

Other quotes by Jesus in the show also raise concerns for Orson; For instance, Jesus expresses worry about messing up his miracles in front of a large crowd. According to Orson. There is no scriptural evidence that Jesus ever felt nervous or worried about performing miracles.

Perceived Mormon Influence

Some Christians have speculated that The Chosen has Mormon influence, as the production company is owned by Latter Day Saints — While director Dallas Jenkins has stated the show is not ‘produced by Mormons,’ others believe there are instances of Mormon influence in the series.

One such example is when Jesus is quoted as saying, ‘I am the law of Moses,’ a phrase not found in the Bible; Orson notes that a similar statement appears in the Book of Mormon, where it is claimed Jesus said, ‘I am the law.’

As a relatively new believer who previously followed new age spirituality, Orson is focused on understanding what is biblical and what isn’t. She prefers to read the Bible daily and learn from trusted sources rather than relying on potentially misleading portrayals in media.

Personal Focus and Learning

Another reason Orson chooses not to watch The Chosen is that she is too busy studying the Bible and learning about it from reliable sources. She enjoys exploring apologetics, watching documentaries on topics like the scientific evidence for creationism and Noah’s flood, and viewing testimonies from those who have transitioned from new age spirituality to Christianity.

Orson acknowledges that many dedicated Christians do watch The Chosen and may be able to discern fact from fiction if they are well-versed in scripture. However, she cautions against using the show as a teaching tool or idol. She believes the Bible can be complex at first but is rewarding with time and patience, as God’s Holy Spirit helps illuminate the text.

To new Christians considering The Chosen as a means to understand the Bible better, Orson suggests using an accurate and easy-to-read Bible translation, such as the ESV, and seeking guidance from a good teacher. She believes that with the help of the Holy Spirit, the words of the Bible will come to life. Orson concludes with a quote from the Bible: ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible,’ from Matthew 19:26.