Episode 1: Thunder
MAIN IDEAS
This episode focuses on the impact of Jesus’ ministry on different individuals, showcasing the personal and communal challenges faced by His disciples and followers. As Jesus continues to heal the sick and perform miracles, the disciples find themselves dealing with the logistical and emotional strain of managing the crowds and maintaining order. The episode delves into the personal stories of the disciples and those who seek Jesus, highlighting their struggles, doubts, and growing understanding of who Jesus is and the nature of His mission. It also explores the tension between the expectations of the Messiah and the reality of Jesus’ actions, inviting viewers to reflect on the deeper meaning of following Him.
OPENER (10 Minutes)
Think of a time when you witnessed or experienced healing (physical, emotional, or spiritual). How did that moment impact your faith or view of God?
SCRIPTURE (10 Minutes)
Episode 1 covers the following scriptures:
News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed; and he healed them.
—Matthew 4:24 (NIV)
VIEW CLIP FROM THE CHOSEN, SEASON 2, EPISODE 3
DISCUSSION (30 Minutes)
On Healing
What types of healing (physical, emotional, spiritual) are portrayed? What is the impact of these healings that you can see? What does this tell us about Jesus’ priorities in ministry?
On Discipleship
How do the disciples react to Jesus’ healing ministry? What do they struggle to understand? How can we relate to their confusion, frustration, or awe in our own faith journeys?
On Conflict and Tension
There is visible tension between Jesus’ followers and the Pharisees. What are the sources of this tension? How do you see similar tensions in today’s church or faith communities?
Personal Application
In what areas of your life are you seeking healing or understanding? How can we, as a group, support each other in our individual journeys of faith and healing?
PERSONAL REFLECTION (10 Minutes)
Spend a few minutes reflecting on the following questions:
Where in your life do you need Jesus’ healing touch today?
Are there any areas of tension or conflict in your faith journey where you need wisdom or peace?
Share with the group (for those who are comfortable)
CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK
This week, try responding to difficult situations with love, patience, and understanding, following Jesus’ example. Notice how this affects the outcome, your sense of peace, and reflect on how Jesus might be calling you to transform a specific area of your life.
CLOSING PRAYER
God, we thank You for the time we’ve spent together tonight, diving into the story of Your Son through the lens of ‘The Chosen.’ As we’ve reflected on the lives of James and John, the sons of thunder, we ask that You help us recognize the areas in our own lives where we need Your transforming power.
Lord, make us aware of the passions and desires that drive us, and guide us to use them in ways that honor You. Teach us to seek not just our will but Your will, and to be open to the ways You want to change and shape us into people who reflect Your love and grace.
Help us, as a community, to support one another on this journey. Let our lives be marked by humility, compassion, and a deep desire to follow Jesus more closely every day.
PREPARE FOR NEXT WEEK:
1. WATCH
The Chosen, Season 2: Episode 4 - “The Perfect Opportunity”
2. READ