As the highly anticipated Season 5 of The Chosen approaches, creator Dallas Jenkins has found himself addressing a wave of backlash from some Christian viewers who argue that the series misrepresents Christ and strays from biblical truth.
Despite the criticism, Jenkins has responded with a blend of data-driven optimism and a call for perspective, urging detractors to consider the show’s broader impact.
Since its debut, The Chosen has garnered a massive global following for its humanized portrayal of Jesus and his disciples. However, not all feedback has been positive.
Some Christian communities have labeled the series a “false gospel,” accusing it of taking creative liberties that deviate from scripture.
Critics have pointed to specific scenes and dialogue as evidence of theological inaccuracies, sparking heated debates online and in religious circles. According to posts found on X, this sentiment has persisted into 2025, with some users urging fellow believers to reject the show entirely.
In response, Jenkins has not shied away from the controversy. Speaking recently, he emphasized that The Chosen is not intended to replace scripture but to complement it by driving viewers back to the Bible.
“We’re not here to rewrite the gospel,” Jenkins said in a statement reported by various outlets. “Our goal is to spark curiosity and encourage people to engage with the source material themselves.”
Jenkins bolstered his defense with compelling evidence of the show’s impact. In a recent interview highlighted across news platforms, he shared data showing that The Chosen has significantly increased Bible readership among its audience.
“The numbers don’t lie,” Jenkins noted, pointing to surveys indicating that a substantial percentage of viewers—some reports suggest over 60%—have picked up their Bibles after watching the series.
This statistic, widely circulated in entertainment news, has become a cornerstone of his argument against the backlash.
Christian Post reported on Jenkins’ remarks, noting that he challenged critics to “judge the show by its fruits,” a biblical reference that resonates with his target audience.
The data aligns with the show’s mission, as Jenkins has consistently framed The Chosen as a tool for evangelism rather than a definitive theological text.
Ahead of Season 5’s release, Jenkins has also offered insights into what fans can anticipate, aiming to set expectations and address lingering concerns.
Entertainment outlets, including coverage tied to posts on X, report that the upcoming season will delve deeper into the emotional and relational dynamics of Jesus’ ministry, focusing on pivotal moments leading up to the Passion.
Jenkins has teased that the season will maintain the show’s signature balance of historical context and creative storytelling, a formula that has both captivated millions and fueled debate.
In a video message shared widely online, Jenkins encouraged viewers to approach Season 5 with an open mind. “This isn’t about us telling you what to believe,” he said, as quoted by multiple sources.
“It’s about inviting you into the story.” The message appears tailored to both supporters and skeptics, reinforcing his stance that the series is a starting point, not an endpoint, for spiritual exploration.
The controversy surrounding The Chosen reflects a larger tension within modern Christian media: how to balance artistic expression with reverence for sacred texts.
News reports have drawn parallels to other faith-based projects that faced similar scrutiny, noting that Jenkins’ transparent approach—engaging directly with critics and leveraging data—sets him apart.
Some commentators suggest that the backlash may even amplify the show’s reach, as debates draw more attention to its release.
As Season 5 nears, the conversation shows no signs of slowing down. Posts on X indicate a polarized audience, with some praising Jenkins for his resilience and others doubling down on their critiques.
Yet, the numbers speak to a broader trend: The Chosen continues to dominate streaming charts and inspire a global fanbase, suggesting that its appeal transcends the controversy.
