The Chosen Season 5: Embracing the Radical Jesus of Holy Week

A Progressive Christian Reflection on "The Last Supper" and the Revolutionary Message of Christ

Published for Progressive Christianity Community | Reflecting on Faith, Justice, and Inclusion

As we anticipate the release of "The Chosen: The Last Supper" (Season 5), we're invited to reflect deeply on one of the most transformative weeks in human history—Holy Week. This season promises to explore not just the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion, but the radical nature of his message that continues to challenge systems of power and oppression today.

"The table is set. The people of Israel welcome Jesus as king while his disciples anticipate his crowning. But—instead of confronting Rome—he turns the tables on the Jewish religious festival."

The Revolutionary Table: Inclusion Over Exclusion

The Last Supper represents more than a final meal—it embodies Jesus' radical vision of inclusive community. In a time when religious and social boundaries divided people, Jesus gathered around the table those who would traditionally be excluded: tax collectors, fishermen, and even those who would betray him. This act of radical hospitality speaks directly to our progressive Christian values of welcome and inclusion.

As we watch this season unfold, we're reminded that Jesus consistently chose love over law, mercy over judgment, and inclusion over exclusion. His table fellowship challenged the religious establishment's gatekeeping and offered a preview of the beloved community where all are welcome.

Confronting Systems of Power

The temple cleansing scene, which actor Jonathan Roumie describes as "wonderfully chaotic," represents Jesus' direct confrontation with economic injustice. When he overturned the tables of money changers, he wasn't just making a religious statement—he was challenging an economic system that exploited the poor and marginalized.

Progressive Reflection

How does Jesus' confrontation with economic exploitation in the temple speak to our modern struggles for economic justice? What tables need to be overturned in our own time to create space for the marginalized and oppressed?

When to Watch: A Community Viewing Guide

Season 5 Release Schedule (Prime Video - US)

• Part 1: Episodes 1-2 | June 15, 2025
• Part 2: Episodes 3-5 | June 22, 2025
• Part 3: Episodes 6-8 | June 29, 2025

Note: International viewers can access episodes starting July 13, 2025

Watch the Official Trailer

Free Viewing Options for Community Groups

Recognizing that not everyone has access to streaming services, "The Chosen" continues its commitment to accessibility:

• YouTube Livestreams: Select episodes available for free viewing
• The Chosen App: Full season available free starting September 13, 2025
• Community Screenings: Many progressive churches are organizing group viewings

A Progressive Lens on Holy Week

As progressive Christians, we approach Holy Week not as a story of divine violence requiring blood sacrifice, but as the culmination of Jesus' ministry of radical love, social justice, and transformative grace. The events of this week—from the triumphal entry to the resurrection—reveal a God who stands with the oppressed and challenges systems that dehumanize.

The Garden of Gethsemane scene will likely portray Jesus' very human struggle with suffering and injustice. This vulnerability reminds us that our faith doesn't require us to suppress doubt or fear, but invites us into honest wrestling with life's deepest questions.

Join the Conversation

How will you engage with "The Chosen" Season 5 as a progressive Christian? Consider organizing viewing parties, discussion groups, or reflection sessions that explore the social justice themes woven throughout Jesus' final week.

Beyond Entertainment: A Call to Action

While "The Chosen" offers compelling storytelling, let's not forget that the Jesus it portrays calls us to action. The same Christ who overturned tables in the temple calls us to overturn systems of injustice in our world. The same Jesus who welcomed all to his table challenges us to create inclusive communities where everyone belongs.

As we watch this season, may we be inspired not just to admire Jesus from afar, but to follow his example of radical love, prophetic courage, and transformative grace in our daily lives.

Watch on Amazon Prime

This reflection is part of our ongoing exploration of progressive Christian themes in popular media. Join our community for more discussions on faith, justice, and inclusion.