Season 1, Episode 1 - I Have Called You by Name

 I know there are those who have watched more than just the first couple of episodes and still didn't appreciate The Chosen. I’ve read reviews from those who analyze its biblical accuracy down to the gnat’s behind. That said, I fall into the other camp—the ones who have watched, loved, and been deeply moved by it.

That being said, I’ll be honest: I didn’t love the first episode the first time I watched it. I knew it was setting up backstory, and I found it slow. Have you ever read a book where the beginning feels like a hard slog, but by the time you reach the end, you realize how crucial that groundwork was? Then, on a second read, it’s enjoyable because, now, the slow parts have context? That was my experience with The Chosen’s opening episode.

Episode 1 introduces us to the lives of several key figures before they encounter Jesus, weaving together backstories for:

• Mary Magdalene (known as Lilith in her broken state) – tormented by demons and struggling with trauma.
• Simon Peter and Andrew – hard-working fishermen dealing with financial struggles and the pressures of Roman taxes.
• Eden – Simon's patient and enduring wife. 
• Nicodemus (or, as Pastor Liferidge likes to call him, "Nick at Night") – a respected Pharisee who begins questioning everything he knows.
• Matthew – an outcast, despised as a tax collector, yet keenly observant.
• Roman soldiers, rabbis, the poor, the sick – the diverse individuals of Capernaum.

At the start of the episode, a disclaimer appears:

"Backstories and some characters or dialogue have been added."

It also reassures us:

"...all biblical and historical context and any artistic imagination are designed to support the truth and intention of the Scriptures."

This artistic license in fleshing out backstories is what some viewers take issue with. But for me (in the long run), it does the opposite—it brings these people to life. It makes their thoughts, struggles, and moments of doubt feel all the more real.

The episode feels heavy, particularly with Mary’s story. She is lost and tormented. Nicodemus attempts an exorcism but is powerless. It’s a reminder that spiritual authority without true divine power is empty.

The moment everything changes and takes it from a hard slog to something special? When Jesus calls Mary by name. With a simple, but powerful interaction, He redeems her. It sets the tone for the entire series. 

So, tell me what you thought of Season 1, Episode 1.  Were you engaged right away or was it a hard slog for you?