The Chosen - Season 2 - Discussion 3

Viewing Jesus through the eyes of those who met Him
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Episode 3 – Matthew 4:24

In Syria, the disciples take shifts to help Jesus deal with a large crowd hoping to be healed. Philip continues to mentor Matthew, while Mary Magdalene and Ramah start to study Torah. A long, exhausting day turns into night as the disciples share how they perceive the Messiah. Jesus’ mother, Mary, arrives from Nazareth to help with her son’s students. Around the campfire, the group tries to get to know each other better. They discuss their experiences and their inner turmoil, but tensions erupt when Simon disputes with Matthew about being chosen. Tempers flare as sides are taken and the disciples begin to argue, forgetting the purpose of why Jesus chose them in the first place. All of a sudden, an exhausted Jesus says a good night to them and his mother, Mary, attends to him. The disciples listen and watch in shame.

Pray

Pray together for the group meeting, and any pressing needs within the group.

Watch

Watch the following discussion-starter video. It’ll set the topic of discussion for the group.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES

  • Psalm 139:8
  • Zechariah 14:1-5
  • Matthew 4:24

EPISODE CHARACTERS

Jesus, Mary, the disciples, especially Matthew, Simon

I don’t think He’s waiting for us to be holy. I think He’s here because we can’t be holy without Him.

~Mary

Personal Impact

  • What is your one BIG idea from this episode? (What captured your imagination most, and what would you first share with someone about this episode and how God spoke to you through it?)
  • What quote from this episode was the most meaningful/impactful to you? Why?

Discuss

  1. What topics during the disciples’ conversation stood out to you as significant, or challenging, and why?
  2. What did you learn about the disciples, and what do you think the producers were trying to communicate?
  3. Little James said, “He’s healing the Samaritans. How many would believe in Him if he wasn’t healing them?” How has your belief been impacted when Jesus hasn’t done what you wanted?
  4. How do we know when we’re following Jesus for who He is and not for what He can do for us?
  5. How do you feel about Simon’s treatment of Matthew? How powerful is it that Simon says he can’t forgive him for what he’s done, when you know Simon will need great forgiveness from Jesus for a later betrayal?
  6. Jesus returned to camp exhausted from ministry. His condition stunned the disciples into silence. Why?
  7. Mary washed Jesus’ feet. Where does scripture record Jesus washing someone’s feet and what was the occasion?
  8. What other observations did you have?

Explore Deeper – Matthew 4:23-25

  1. READ: One person will first read the scripture selection in the King James Version.
  2. RE-READ: Next, another person will read the same passages in a modern language or amplified version for more clarity such as the New Living Translation (NLT), Message Bible (MSG), New English Translation (NET), Amplified Bible (AMP), etc. We recommend using the YouVersion Bible app.
  3. RETELL: One person will begin retelling the scripture passage in their own words (a new person to start each week is great!) Then as a group, work together to fill in gaps and build the story. This will help us internalize and own it. Be sure everyone participates.

Verse 23

  • Jesus taught in many synagogues (like Jewish churches) about the Gospel of the Kingdom. What does this tell us about their willingness to hear from Jesus?
  • What impact might Jesus’ healing of sicknesses have had on his being welcome in these synagogues?
  • What was Jesus preaching in these synagogues? 
  • What was more important to Jesus – the message he preached, or the healing of the people? What was more important to the people?
  • Have you ever wrestled with having the right motive for following Jesus? Explain.

Verse 24

  • How did news of Jesus spread, and how far?
  • What was Jesus becoming famous for?
  • After word spread about his healings, what other miracle did Jesus begin doing?
  • What toll might all of this ministry have taken on Jesus physically and mentally?
  • What kind of organization might have been needed in order to minister to so many people?
  • What can be done to help safeguard from burnout while ministering to others?

Verse 25

  • What was the result of Jesus’ healing ministry?
  • What was happening to the size of those who were following Him?
  • In what ways can we use the lessons of this scripture setting to help advance the Gospel?