What ‘The  Chosen’ Teaches Us About Spiritual Authority

“The Chosen” has captured global attention with its fresh portrayal of Jesus and His followers. Unlike many adaptations that emphasize only Jesus’ divinity, the series highlights both his humanity and his mission as the Son of God. One of its most powerful themes is spiritual authority—who has it, how it is expressed, and what it means in everyday life. Through layered storytelling and character development, “The Chosen” explores spiritual authority in ways that resonate with both Scripture and modern audiences.

Jesus’ Authority: Compassionate and Convicting

In the Gospels, Jesus’ authority is consistently questioned by religious leaders, yet the source of his authority is unmistakable: He is the Son sent by the Father, empowered by the Spirit (John 5:19, John 7:16). “The Chosen” portrays him not as a distant ruler but as relational, compassionate, and unshakably confident in his divine mission.

His authority is demonstrated in word and deed—when he heals with a touch, casts out demons, or forgives sin. Unlike Roman soldiers who rule through fear, or Pharisees who rely on rigid law-keeping, Jesus’ authority is rooted in truth and love. It liberates rather than dominates. In “The Chosen,” moments such as the healing of Mary Magdalene or the calling of Matthew illustrate that his authority brings restoration, not oppression.

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The Disciples Learn True Authority

“The Chosen” also highlights the disciples’ gradual—and often messy—journey into understanding authority. At first, many expect a Messiah who will overthrow Rome with force and generally use violence against his enemies. At the beginning of Season 2, after a group of Samaritans disrespect Jesus, brothers Big James and John ask if Jesus wants them to call fire down the Samaritans. Jesus uses the moment to teach the brothers the true nature of his kingdom and gives them the name “Sons of Thunder.”

The series shows that spiritual authority is learned through submission, humility, and grace. The disciples’ authority grows not from power plays but from walking with Jesus, failing often, and being restored by him.

Earthly Power vs. Kingdom Authority

The contrast between earthly and spiritual authority runs throughout the show. Roman officials wield coercion. Pharisees enforce authority through status and strictness. But Jesus redefines greatness: “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all” (Mark 9:35).

Nicodemus’ storyline captures this tension vividly. Though he recognizes the divine source of Jesus’ authority, he cannot surrender the prestige and security of his Pharisaic role. His decision not to follow Jesus is one of the show’s most poignant moments, revealing that acknowledging authority is not the same as submitting to it.

Authority Rooted in Relationship

A unique strength of “The Chosen” is how it shows Jesus imparting authority. It is not granted by titles or institutions but through relationship with him. When he sends the disciples out two by two to heal and preach (Luke 9:1–2), their authority flows from trust in the one who sends them, not from credentials.