The Chosen: Truth or Hollywood Sensationalism? (Part 1)

 

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Dallas Jenkins, creator and director of The Chosen, has publicly identified as an Evangelical Christian and has consistently said that his theological foundation is rooted in traditional Christian beliefs. However, the growing involvement of individuals and organizations connected to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) in the production and distribution of The Chosen has stirred some controversy, especially among Evangelicals and others who are cautious about doctrinal influence.

Here’s a breakdown of the concern, the reasoning behind it, and why some might find it hard to fully separate Jenkins’ Evangelical theology from the potential influence of Mormonism:

Is the Jesus represented in the popular series "The Chosen" prophesied in 2 Corinthians 11:3-4 as "another Jesus"?

"But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him." 2 Corinthians (11:3-4)

LDS Involvement in Production and Distribution

• Angel Studios, which helped launch and distribute The Chosen, was founded by members of the LDS Church.

• Several individuals associated with the project, including actors and back-end contributors, have either identified as LDS or been heavily involved in Mormon communities.

• Filming has taken place in LDS-owned facilities, such as the Jerusalem set in Goshen, Utah.

While these partnerships are largely logistical and business-oriented, some argue that the spiritual and theological proximity can influence how stories are told, even subtly.

Jenkins' Statements on LDS Christianity

Dallas Jenkins made headlines when he stated that he believes LDS members "love the same Jesus" as Evangelicals. This statement deeply concerned many in the Evangelical world because:

• Mormon theology views Jesus as a created being, the spirit-brother of Lucifer, and a literal child of God the Father in a way that diverges sharply from traditional Trinitarian doctrine.

• Evangelicals, by contrast, affirm the eternality of Christ and His full divinity as the Second Person of the Trinity.

By appearing to minimize these theological distinctions, Jenkins opened the door to speculation that his representation of Jesus may, at least in part, be shaped by or appealing to Mormon beliefs—especially considering his close working relationships with LDS individuals.

Influence of Collaboration on Creative Direction

Jenkins has said he writes or oversees all scripts personally, but:

• Artistic projects are rarely shaped in isolation. Even if he writes the scripts, others involved may contribute suggestions, ideas, or emotional feedback that shape tone, character development, and how Jesus is portrayed.

• Maintaining unity and cooperation across religious lines for a project as big as The Chosen might naturally encourage avoiding theological friction points. As a result, the portrayal of Jesus could become more “broadly appealing,” potentially softening or avoiding differences that Evangelicals see as essential.

• Evangelical Concerns: A "Different Jesus"?

  From a conservative Evangelical standpoint, the portrayal of Jesus can’t be neutral or simply artistic—it reflects theology. Critics argue that:

  • If the Jesus presented is overly focused on moral teaching, emotional relatability, or community inclusion—without highlighting His divine authority, substitutionary atonement, and exclusive role as Savior—it risks aligning more closely with the LDS depiction of Christ.

  • The avoidance of theological clarity in The Chosen may leave room for interpretations that are compatible with both Evangelical and Mormon beliefs, which, from a doctrinal standpoint, are not compatible.

  • Conclusion

    While Dallas Jenkins may sincerely aim to present the Jesus of the Bible, the deep and sustained collaboration with LDS individuals and groups raises reasonable concerns about theological drift or softening. Even if unintentional, these influences could subtly reshape the character of Jesus to be one that both Evangelicals and Mormons can embrace—despite the significant differences between their theologies.

    The question then becomes: Can a portrayal of Jesus be faithful to one theology while also being palatable to another that fundamentally disagrees on who Jesus is? That tension is at the heart of why some find it hard to fully trust that Jenkins' Jesus remains untouched by the influence of Mormonism.

The Apostle Paul warned the early church;

"But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him."

The end times are rife with false doctrines and false Christs. Listen to what Jesus himself warned in Matthew 24.

"And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many." (Matthew 24:4-5)

"Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. Behold, I have told you before." (Matthew 24:23-25) 

My dear friend, if you have never received Christ as your Saviour, would you do so today? Pray this from your heart. Dear Jesus, I know I am a sinner. I believe you died on the cross for my sins. I believe you were buried and rose again the third day. I ask you now to forgive me of my sins and come into my heart and save me. Amen