Navigating Faith and Controversy: A Critical Look at ‘The Chosen’ and Modern Challenges
Guest Devotional Post: Juniah Ramirez
1 Kings 19-20; Romans 12; Psalm 138
I recently immersed myself in the latest episodes of ‘The Chosen,’ and the intensity of the storyline truly captivated me. Despite its controversy, I hold a genuine affection for the show, recognizing its place as biblical fiction rather than a replacement for the Bible. While delving into related videos, I stumbled upon discussions where people expressed their sentiments regarding a disciple undergoing a significant trial, and Jesus not offering comfort in the expected manner.
These discussions often echo sentiments like, ‘Well, that’s not how my Jesus does things.’ This intrigues me, highlighting a potential gap in biblical knowledge among believers. In these times, we, as believers, must know the Bible inside out. As we navigate the world, we need to discern what is of God and what is worldly, as Romans touches upon.
(Romans 12:2)
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
The enemy’s active targeting of the next generation is evident in issues like gender dysphoria, contributing to disheartening confusion among young people about their identity. Many believe they are the opposite sex they were created to be, and this concerning trend is observable even on social media.
Adding to these challenges, a recent massive scandal involving the ihopkc situation has been truly heart-wrenching. It exposed the abuse perpetrated by a manipulative individual who shamelessly used God against vulnerable women and others. The gravity of the situation is genuinely alarming. This week, I’ve felt a heightened awareness of the need to be focused on hearing the Lord clearly. This focus is crucial because, without such clarity, there is a risk of becoming deaf and blind, not out of intention but due to a lack of understanding of who Jesus truly is.
Let’s reflect on today’s reading:
(1 Kings 19:11-15)
And he said, “Go out and stand on the mount before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. 12And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper. 13And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. And behold, there came a voice to him and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” 14He said, “I have been very jealous for the Lord, the God of hosts. For the people of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and killed your prophets with the sword, and I, even I only, am left, and they seek my life, to take it away.”
Jesus is our friend, but it’s crucial to remember that as much as He loves us, He is also the King and Ruler over us. Thinking that He will coddle us isn’t an accurate expectation. Each time He disciplines, He judges, and He loves. We see this played out very plainly in the Old Testament and even more so in the New. Friends, this needs to be our primary focus. We can’t lose sight of His word. One of my favorite passages that emphasizes this is:
(Matthew 24:35)
‘Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear.’
The call to discern is a duty fulfilled by diligently knowing the Bible, understanding the Word, and being cautious in how we disciple others. Are we guiding them to hear from the Lord, or are we unintentionally positioning ourselves as the ultimate answer? This resonates with me, as I recall how my mom would encourage me to seek God’s answers directly rather than relying on her interpretations.
In essence, following Jesus entails embracing challenges and suffering. It’s not an easy journey but a commitment that should cost us everything, not nothing.
Deepening Faith: Reflective Journal Prompts
- Exploring Personal Reflections on Biblical Fiction: Reflect on your own experiences with biblical fiction, like ‘The Chosen’. How do these stories influence your understanding of biblical events and characters? Consider whether they enhance your faith or if you find yourself needing to critically separate fiction from the biblical truth.
- Discerning Jesus’ Comfort in Trials: Write about a time when you faced a significant trial and how you perceived Jesus’ comfort (or lack thereof) during that period. Compare this with the discussions around ‘The Chosen’ and the expectations of Jesus’ actions. How does this challenge or affirm your understanding of Jesus’ presence in our struggles?
- The Impact of Cultural and Societal Issues on Faith: Reflect on the influence of contemporary issues such as gender dysphoria and the misuse of authority within the church, as highlighted by the ihopkc scandal. How do these issues challenge your faith, and what strategies do you employ to maintain a biblical perspective in the face of societal confusion and sin?
- The Importance of Hearing God Amidst Noise: Consider the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19:11-15. Reflect on your own life—how do you make space to listen for God’s “low whisper” amidst the “wind”, “earthquake”, and “fire” of life’s trials and the world’s noise? What practical steps can you take to better discern God’s voice?
- Commitment to Discipleship and the Word: Think about your approach to discipleship and how you guide others in their faith journey. Reflect on whether you encourage them to seek God’s guidance directly or if there’s a risk of becoming an unintentional intermediary. How can you more effectively point others towards a direct relationship with God, grounded in a deep understanding of His Word?
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