Following The Chosen

The Chosen Season 4 is about to hit the big screen 1st February!  Whilst you wait, Check out Laura's exclusive interview with Dallas Jenkins (creator and director of The Chosen series) as they chat about what's coming up in Season 4! #FollowingTheChosen is your podcast about every Chosen episode in Season 4. By fans, for fans, we explore the Bible bits, added bits and "what's that about?" bits. Experience this podcast in video form on YouTube! Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney. Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Ben McEachen and Laura Bennett as they discuss differing views on the Season Four finale of The Chosen. Ben praises its convergence of storylines and Laura critiques its ending. They delve into significant scenes, including Mary’s profound gesture with expensive perfume and the ongoing debate around Jesus' teachings. The episode highlights contemporary faith dilemmas and the complexities of unity within the disciples and broader community. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Ben McEachen and Laura Bennett as they dive into episode seven of The Chosen’s season four. Our predictions that the raising of Lazarus would be the season finale were shattered! Instead, we see Jesus's sadness with new eyes by witnessing the pain and grief experienced by his dear friends and their loved ones. Ben finally gets his wish for "more Thomas" but, hang on, is there too much? This episode also examines how the disciples wrestle with the existence of death and what it means for believers.  Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Ben McEachen and Laura Bennett as they dive into episodes five and six of The Chosen’s season four. Explore the nuanced portrayal of Mary and Martha, Jesus' teachings on service, the tension with Roman soldiers, and the evolving dynamics among the disciples. The discussion includes the deepening backstory of Judas and Thomas, and reflections on the purpose of parables and grief's role in faith. This episode intricately examines how The Chosen captures and conveys profound biblical themes while hinting at the season's climactic focus on Lazarus. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this riveting episode of "Following the Chosen," Ben and Laura dive into the complexities and emotional depths of Season 4, Episode 4 of "The Chosen." The episode, described by Ben as one laden with internal conflict, especially raises poignant questions about faith, healing, and the seemingly contradictory actions of Jesus in different situations. The discussion navigates the aftermath of Rhema's death, the healing of Gaius' son, and the disciples' continued struggles with their faith and leadership roles. They also delve into how major plot points, like Gaius' elevated faith and the disciples' desire for leadership, are woven into the episode, creating a mosaic of teachings that demand deep reflection. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With already quite a lot of discussion and controversy around this Episode, Ben and Laura have plenty to chat about. After the long-awaited return to Season 4, the episode contains a bombshell that will be sure to cause ripples for the rest of the series. Healing of the blind man and the actions of Quintus just pack this episode to bursting, leaving us all desperate for more. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What has happened to the rest of The Chosen Season 4? Where are the episodes? A few days ago, Dallas Jenkins' gave us an update about "legal issues" which have held back the streaming release. Laura and Ben share what can be gleaned from Dallas' behind-the-scenes revelations and how it sparks admiration for – and further speculation about – this crowdsourced, free TV series of faith. Fancy commenting? We would love to hear from you. Join the conversation and drop us a comment on Spotify, on Youtube or at hopepodcasts.com.au!  Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While waiting for Episode 3 of The Chosen Season 4 to hit Australia, we loved checking out your comments on what's been happening so far. Laura and Ben discuss them here, covering everything from Simon Peter being called The Rock, to the death of John the Baptist and more! Fancy commenting? We would love to hear from you. Join the conversation and drop us a comment on Spotify, on Youtube or at hopepodcasts.com.au!  Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Blown away by The Best Opening Shot Ever in The Chosen, Ben and Laura enjoyed all of Season 4 Episode 2's threads converging into a poignant depiction of the power and cost of forgiveness. Matthew and Simon Peter demonstrating that "forgiveness is the gift the other person gives to you" will get your tears going.Oh, jeepers. This episode ALSO contains "Who do people say I am?" and the Messiah's announcement of building his church upon the rock. So, you know, there's a bit for Laura and Ben to chat about! Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

#FollowingTheChosen is your podcast about every Chosen episode in Season 4. By fans, for fans, we explore the Bible bits, added bits and "what's that about?" bits. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. Promotional : Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the end, my friends, of The Chosen's third season. Ben and Laura had mixed reactions to the final display of tested faith but, you know, in a good way. Then there's the old/new significance of a psalm performed. And how about that epic re-enactment of the feeding of the multitude!  #FollowingTheChosen is your podcast about every Chosen episode in Season 3. By fans, for fans, we explore the Bible bits, added bits and "what's that about?" bits. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney. Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wild speculation abounds about The Chosen off-screen as Laura and Ben get into this round of the disciples' trying to deal. The divisive reaction to Jesus' open invitation fuels an episode of strong set-up to Season 3's finale. #FollowingTheChosen is your podcast about every Chosen episode in Season 3. By fans, for fans, we explore the Bible bits, added bits and "what's that about?" bits. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney. Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does classic Australian comedy The Castle (1997) have to do with The Chosen? This episode, as Laura explained. PLUS: Jesus gets proper angry, and Simon and Eden FINALLY talk. Oh, so do Tamar and Mary. That conversation got Ben reflecting on his own guilt and forgiveness.  It's about to get even more close and personal in this edition of #FollowingTheChosen, the podcast about every Chosen episode in Season 3. By fans, for fans, we explore the Bible bits, added bits and "what's that about?" bits. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney. Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The one that made Laura AND Ben cry. What we see Jesus do for a shunned woman and dead daughter caused Laura and Ben to tear up. They also loved what is broadcast about Jesus' care and his command. #FollowingTheChosen gets up close and personal with every Chosen episode in Season 3, exploring the Bible bits, added bits and "what's that about?" bits. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney. Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The one where the tables turn. Laura is not sold on everything going on in Clean: Part 1 while, in sharp contrast to the previous episode, Ben gets to be "good cop". #FollowingTheChosen gets up close and personal with every Chosen episode in Season 3, exploring the Bible bits, added bits and "what's that about?" bits. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney. Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The best and worst of The Chosen – in one episode. TV/film reviewers and Chosen fans Laura Bennett and Ben McEachen disagree about the first half of Season 3's Episode 3, Physician Heal Yourself. Ben was distracted and eye-rolling about some creative choices, such as Jesus playing sports – badly – and sheep called Cain and Abel. But Laura pointed out that such everyday elements helped the "I am the Messiah" impact of the memorable second half. #FollowingTheChosen gets up close and personal with every Chosen episode in Season 3, exploring the Bible bits, added bits and "what's that about?" bits. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney. Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Imagine Jesus himself told you to go and do... as he does... including heal the sick, cast out demons and proclaim a way of life that every single person DOES NOT live up to. "Two by Two" hinges on an amazing sequence where Jesus sends out his disciples. How we see them respond – and our own response – is what TV/film reviewers and Chosen fans Laura Bennett and Ben McEachen get into, during this lively, impactful conversation. #FollowingTheChosen gets up close and personal with every Chosen episode in Season 3, exploring the Bible bits, added bits and "what's that about?" bits. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney. Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

INTRODUCING UNDISTRACTED with Laura Bennett When the afternoon slump starts to hit, Laura’s fun and quirky personality provide just the lift you need. And getting the kids home has never been more enjoyable – putting the ‘pick me up’ in the afternoon pick up – with this entertaining show that’s safe for young ears to listen to.   Our guest today is Australian actor George Xanthis, who plays John on 'The Chosen', the global hit series about the life of Jesus and his disciples. The next season is one the biggest as they face the crucifixion of Christ and in this episode, George not only talks about that, but about how a local Sydney boy got this gig, pressure to be a religious icon and how his spirituality has evolved during filming. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

About the Guest: Brandon Robbins is a dynamic Pastor and YouTuber with a deep passion for exploring and teaching the stories of Jesus and his disciples. He has been an enthusiastic follower of the Chosen series, dedicated to analysing and expanding on its theological and historical themes. Brandon is the author of "The Forgotten Teachings of Jesus," a book that dives deeper into the Chosen's episodes to enrich the understanding of Jesus's teachings. He is known for his insightful and engaging content that resonates with both the religious and mainstream audiences alike. Key Takeaways: The Chosen series integrates modern entertainment with historical depth, providing a riveting portrayal of Jesus and his disciples. Understanding Jewish customs enriches the viewing experience, making connections with scripture more profound and insightful. The unique storytelling framework of the Chosen prioritises human experiences, drawing deeper personal connections to the events. Significant aspects of Christian spirituality, such as prayer and understanding scripture, are explored in depth to enhance spiritual transformation. The Chosen generates a community-driven movement, expanding biblical narratives into other media forms and platforms, fostering a global conversation. Notable Quotes: "It focuses not just on telling the story of Jesus, but really telling the story of Jesus through the eyes of his disciples." – Brandon Robbins "Jewish people could do that with the whole Bible. And so when you see something quoted in Scripture… everybody knew what that meant." – Brandon Robbins “It was just beautiful to watch her eyes as she viewed Jesus in this way that is even different than what she experiences in church." – Brandon Robbins “The Chosen has been all about connecting with people. And that is what has caused them to just be evangelistic about it." – Brandon Robbins “When you can put that sort of stuff into a story and understand how it relates to people now, you'll see people dig into scriptures that nobody's ever really touched before.” – Brandon Robbins Resources: Brandon Robbins's Book: The Forgotten Teachings of Jesus  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Takeaways: "The Promised Land" cleverly balances humor and deep theological themes to explore humanity's relationship with the divine. Leadership and forgiveness are central themes as Moses navigates his own pride and responsibilities. The series finale emphasizes the importance of community and collective worship in experiencing God's presence. Human imperfection, explored through characters like Bezalel and Aaron, underscores the message that God seeks obedience, not perfection. The show's ability to intertwine Old Testament stories with modern television genres opens new avenues for understanding biblical narratives. Notable Quotes: "The big finale to the big finale is worshipping God. And I'm kind of down with that." — Laura Bennett "When you experience God's presence, there is a response. There can be nothing other than some kind of response." — Ben McEachen "God doesn't want perfection. He wants obedience. And it's more that. It's more the heart attitude than the actual thing you're presenting." — Laura Bennett "I liked how God came to the fore in the final couple of minutes." — Laura Bennett "You can understand as a human who knows they're unworthy in front of God." — Ben McEachen   Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.