‘The Chosen’ continues to transform hearts and minds, leaving everyone who watches season five completely speechless.

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Centered around the final week of Jesus’ life, this season dives into the passion, betrayal and heartbreak that lead to the crucifixion. With raw, honest portrayals of iconic biblical moments—including the Last Supper and Judas’ devastating decision—season five is shaping up to be a spiritual and cinematic milestone. Jenkins promises that what unfolds will not only surprise fans but also deeply move them.

Part three of the “Last Supper” season releases today, Friday, Apr. 11. If you’ve followed the journey so far, you won’t want to miss what’s coming next.

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Watch this powerful video below to hear all about the highlights of season five.

See ALL of Charisma Media’s coverage of The Chosen here!

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Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

In an era when faith-based media often struggle to find both critical acclaim and widespread impact, The Chosen has shattered as many expectations as old patterns. More than just a television series, it has become a cultural and spiritual movement, introducing millions to the story of Jesus while deepening the faith of countless believers worldwide. Through the journeys of individuals like Brandon Snipe, creator of The Chosen Sleuth YouTube channel, and Brandon Robbins, a pastor-turned-digital disciple, the show’s transformative power is undeniable. As the premier of Season 5, The Chosen: Last Supper, approaches, these two men exemplify how The Chosen is not just entertainment—it is a gateway to transformed faith, biblical study and a renewed sense of discipleship.

From Skeptic to Superfan: How The Chosen Captivates Audiences

Both Snipe and Robbins began their journey with The Chosen from a place of initial hesitation. Snipe, having been disappointed by previous Christian media productions, assumed this series would be no different, “Every Christian show we ever watch, it’s just boring. And so, my wife, though, is a big fan of Christian media, and that night, she’s like, ‘Let’s watch it.’ We get through the first couple episodes, I’m like, maybe there’s something here.” Robbins, a pastor struggling to connect his ministry with a broader audience, was glad to see The Chosen as beyond just another attempt at dramatizing the gospel, “One of the things that I think The Chosen has done for me and for so many other people is allow the Gospel to come to life in a way that enables us to see it a bit differently, and I would say a bit more faithfully than we have in the past.”

Everything flipped when they gave it a chance. Snipe was captivated by Episode 3 of Season 1, which shattered his preconceptions about faith-based storytelling. Robbins, in turn, found himself drawn in by the show’s historical and cultural authenticity, which resonated deeply with his passion for biblical teaching. Their journeys highlight a key aspect of The Chosen’s success—it transcends expectations and offers something profoundly real.

The Birth of The Chosen Sleuth and a Digital Ministry

Snipe’s newfound passion for The Chosen led him to create content analyzing the series. His first video, Big James Is Dead, unexpectedly went viral, revealing a hunger for in-depth analysis, Easter eggs and Scriptural insights related to the show. Meanwhile, Robbins found that his deep dives into The Chosen’s biblical and historical context struck a chord with viewers, transforming his struggling YouTube channel into a thriving digital ministry.

Their experiences reflect a larger trend: The Chosen is not merely a show, it is a spark for conversation, study and discipleship. The Chosen is now a cultural force changing lives for the better. The series has spurred a wave of digital evangelism, with creators, pastors and everyday believers using it as a launching pad for deeper discussions about Jesus.

A New Understanding of Discipleship: The Call of Jesus

One of the most profound ways The Chosen reshapes viewers’ faith is through its portrayal of discipleship. Both Snipe and Robbins were struck by the way the show depicts Jesus calling His followers. Peter, a brash fisherman, and Matthew, a despised tax collector, are chosen not because of their worthiness but because of Jesus’ grace. This portrayal challenged both men’s understanding of what it means to follow Christ.

Robbins, who had always viewed discipleship as a set of religious practices, realized that The Chosen was revealing something deeper—discipleship is about radical surrender. It’s about leaving everything behind to walk with Jesus, just as His first-century followers did. For Snipe, this understanding deepened his own commitment to ministry, leading him to use his platform to bring biblical insights to a growing audience.

Seeing the Bible Through First-Century Eyes

One of The Chosen’s greatest strengths is its immersive experience for audiences into the Jewish culture of Jesus’ time. Robbins, whose studies were influenced by books like Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus, found that the show brought these historical lessons to life in a way that traditional Bible study alone did not.

For example, the phrase “Come, follow me” takes on new significance when understood in its historical context. In first-century Judaism, discipleship meant total commitment—it was not just about learning from a rabbi but literally living within his footsteps. Through The Chosen, viewers see how revolutionary Jesus’ invitation truly was. Robbins emphasizes that this insight has deepened his appreciation of Scripture and has encouraged others to approach the Bible with fresh eyes.

Community Over Individualism: Rediscovering Biblical Faith

Another striking theme in The Chosen is its emphasis on communal faith. In Western Christianity, faith is often seen as an individual pursuit, but The Chosen reintroduces the biblical reality of faith as a shared experience.

The healing of the paralytic is a prime example. Jesus doesn’t credit the man’s faith but the faith of his friends who lowered him through the roof. This scene, Robbins notes, reflects the collectivist nature of first-century Jewish society, where righteousness and faith were communal responsibilities. Both Robbins and Snipe have been inspired by this message, encouraging their audiences to see faith as something that binds believers together rather than isolates them.

The Emotional and Spiritual Weight of The Chosen’s Future Seasons

As The Chosen gears up for Season 5, both men anticipate one of the most emotionally and theologically complex seasons yet. With the depiction of the Last Supper, Jesus’ confrontation in the temple and Judas’ impending betrayal, the stakes are higher than ever.

Snipe, in particular, emphasizes that the show’s handling of Judas’ betrayal will be crucial. If done well, it will reinforce the weight of Jesus’ sacrifice and the gravity of human free will. Robbins, meanwhile, sees the upcoming season as an opportunity for viewers to spiritually prepare for the intensity of Jesus’ final days. The ending of Season 5—leading into an even darker Season 6—will likely test the faith of viewers in profound ways.

Personal Encounters with God: Miracles and Wilderness Moments

Beyond its storytelling, The Chosen resonates with viewers’ personal faith journeys. Robbins recounts a transformative moment in his own life—hiking in the Negev desert, struggling with severe knee pain and experiencing a sudden, miraculous healing, “I was like, I don’t know how I’m gonna walk. Like, Lord, I just need a miracle. And as I was hiking, I just had this moment where I’m just asking ‘God, what do I do? What do I do?’ And God says, ‘Just take it off. Take off the brace.’ And from that moment forward, I did not have one ounce of pain for the rest of the trip. And for me, it was this powerful moment of realizing, God is in this wilderness and healing happens in this wilderness.”

This moment mirrored the biblical theme of God meeting His people in the wilderness. Just as the disciples encounter Jesus in their darkest moments, The Chosen invites viewers to recognize God’s presence in their own struggles.

Snipe, too, has seen how the show inspires real-life encounters with God, “I really hope that this [Season 5: The Chosen: Last Supper] brings people to a place where they can dive deep into what God has for them in their lives, and that they can learn to trust Him and learn to seek out truth, that’s what I really hope, for sure.”

Countless viewers have shared testimonies of renewed faith, deeper prayer lives, a freshly invigorated hunger to know Jesus more and even miraculous experiences sparked by watching The Chosen. It is more than entertainment—it is an invitation to meet Jesus anew.

How Has The Chosen Changed You?

For Snipe, Robbins and millions of viewers worldwide, The Chosen is more than a television series—it is a catalyst for transformation. It has reignited biblical study, reshaped understandings of discipleship and blossomed into a global faith community.

As the show continues to unfold, its impact is undeniable. It calls viewers to seek Jesus not just as a historical figure but as a living presence who transforms lives.

The question remains: How has The Chosen changed you?

And how will you respond?

At the core of the blockbuster series The Chosen is an approach that redefines how biblical narratives are told. Unlike many portrayals of Jesus that emphasize only His divinity, this series presents Him as both God and man—approachable, warm and deeply connected with the people around Him. The show provides a rare focus on the disciples, fleshing out their personal struggles, doubts, human foibles, but also their transformations. Each episode weaves biblical truth with inspired storytelling, adding layers of emotion, nuance and depth to figures many only know through Sunday School and Bible Study.

Since its debut in 2019, The Chosen has broken barriers, setting records for independent faith-based media, now translated into at least 50 languages ahead of a goal of 600, ensuring people from every corner of the planet may engage with its powerful storytelling. As of 2025, it claims more than 17 million social media followers and 280 million viewers through its various platforms in everything from movie theaters to streaming on your cellphone.

Now, on the eve of the premier of Season 5, The Chosen: Last Supper, this phenomenon’s wider connection to its audiences comes into clearer focus. Arriving in Season 1 mere months before the world ground to an artificial halt for the pandemic, it re-started for Season 2 as the world was still reeling from the multiplying lag effects of pandemic policies. Many say The Chosen arrived at precisely the right moment to provide a glimpse of hope after years that left many searching for meaning, encouragement and stability. It is no overstatement to say this series has been a spiritual oasis for millions.

For Christians, The Chosen has been a fresh reminder of the living Christ, a beacon of faith during uncertain times. It has sparked Bible studies, church discussions and personal reflections worldwide. For those outside the Christian faith—including members of the Jewish community—the show has offered an unprecedented exploration of first-century Jewish life, culture and traditions, sowing greater understanding and appreciation of the Hebrew roots of Christianity.

The Chosen has been praised for its universal themes of love, forgiveness and purpose. Its emphasis on the value of individuals—regardless of social status, past mistakes or personal struggles—continues to resonate with anyone searching for acceptance and connection in an overly media-saturated world that leaves more people in desperate loneliness despite greater opportunities for communication that at any time in history.

Though faith-based films and television series often receive limited recognition in mainstream entertainment circles, The Chosen has rewritten the old script, earning numerous nominations and prestigious awards including the Gospel Music Association’s Dove Award and K-Love’s Fan Award, along with nominations for the People’s Choice Awards “Favorite TV Drama” previously held by such legendary secular programs as M*A*S*H, Friends, Seinfeld and Dallas. The show’s meticulous craftsmanship, high production value and especially the gripping performances by the gifted cast have gained the respect of audiences and critics alike.

One of the most lauded aspects of The Chosen is that stellar cast with Jonathan Roumie’s portrayal of Jesus earning universal praise for its sincerity, warmth and emotional depth. His performance captures both the compassion and authority of Christ, presenting a figure who is both divine and deeply human. Shahar Isaac (Simon Peter), Elizabeth Tabish (Mary Magdalene) and Paras Patel (Matthew) also deliver unforgettable performances, bringing their characters to life with authenticity and depth.

Let us also spare a thought for the exceptional raw materials provided to the cast, the plot treatments and scripts from creator and head writer, Dallas Jenkins, and his writers team. Jenkins, son of Left Behind co-author Jerry B. Jenkins, has consistently emphasized the importance of character-driven storytelling over mere spectacle. His vision for The Chosen was not just to retell familiar stories but to deeply explore the human experiences behind them. His crew adroitly balance biblical accuracy with creative liberties, ensuring narratives remain engaging while honoring Scripture. Dialogue is modern yet respectful of historical context making it accessible without losing authenticity.

Upcoming seasons will run through the perfection of the Gospel message, but Season 5 arrives presently abundant in promise and excitement for this show’s ability to bring the greatest story ever told to new audiences in newer, evermore intimate, revelatory ways. The Chosen: Last Supper will take use through Holy Week as far more than a television series—it is a movement, a God-send shining the light of Jesus into countless lives and offering a much-needed reminder that grace, love and healing are still abundant and available to all in the embrace of Jesus.

When The Chosen: Last Supper was unveiled for Season 5, fans braced for a deeply emotional chapter including one of history’s most controversial figures—Judas Iscariot. The role carries immense weight, demanding an actor who can portray both charisma and internal conflict.

Enter Luke Dimyan, whose casting as Judas was as unexpected as it was fated.

Dimyan initially auditioned for various disciples but found himself uniquely suited for Judas. Amanda Jenkins, wife of show creator Dallas Jenkins, reportedly was the one who first said Dimyan was the one for the role. The secrecy surrounding the role made his selection all the more intriguing. While other cast members openly celebrated their parts, Dimyan had to sit on this revelation, knowing he had been entrusted with one of the most pivotal roles in the series.

Being cast as Judas Iscariot comes with its fair share of reactions. Dimyan has faced a mix of amusement, fascination and at times, strong opinions—especially from family. His grandmother, upon hearing the news, was not pleased, “She tried to throw her walker at me a few times,” he laughs.

The public reaction has been mostly positive, though some fans struggle with the idea of separating the actor from the role. Dimyan takes it all in stride, even joking that his biggest career achievement is that he “can afford healthcare now.”

Judas Iscariot is often viewed through a singular, condemning lens, but Dimyan approached the character with nuance and empathy. He saw Judas not merely as a villain but as a man whose choices, while devastating, were rooted in complex motivations.

Inspired by Ian McShane’s portrayal of Judas in Jesus of Nazareth, Dimyan studied the artistic fascination with Judas across history, from literature to film to music. Judas is a character that challenges audiences to wrestle with themes of betrayal, free will and redemption. Dimyan wanted to deliver a portrayal that reflected the slow, painful unraveling of a man who once had good intentions but succumbed to tragic misjudgment. Season 5 of The Chosen doesn’t rush Judas’ transformation from eager disciple to betrayer. Instead, the reliably spectacular writing crafts a deliberate devolution, making his eventual decision all the more heartbreaking.

One of the most emotionally charged scenes for Dimyan was the Last Supper, particularly the moment of tension at the table with Jonathan Roumie’s Jesus. The gravity of that interaction, where love, sorrow and inevitability collide, tested Dimyan’s depth as an actor. Dimyan recalls these moments as both terrifying and exhilarating—an actor’s dream challenge.

To enrich their performances, the cast of The Chosen participated in a traditional Passover meal led by Rabbi Jason Sobel. This firsthand experience allowed Dimyan to connect with the Exodus narrative, the same story Judas and the disciples would have meditated on that fateful night, “As we continued the feast, it gave me a huge appreciation for the tradition, and knowing the story of Exodus, the suffering at the hands of the Egyptian people that the Israelites went through.” Dimyan was particularly struck by the symbolic depth of the afikoman, the broken matzah that in Jewish tradition represents redemption—a theme woven throughout the Gospel.

Season 5 of The Chosen sets the stage for what will ultimately be a heart-wrenching progression toward Christ’s crucifixion. Dimyan describes this season as an essential but incomplete puzzle piece. “The story won’t be finished until Season 7,” he reminds fans, urging them to remain patient for the full impact of the narrative.

The Chosen: Last Supper carries a heavier tone, reflecting the growing tension between Jesus, His disciples and the religious authorities. Audiences should brace for darker themes, deep personal betrayals and a portrayal of Judas that will challenge preconceptions.

Luke Dimyan’s portrayal of Judas Iscariot is set to redefine how audiences perceive one of the most infamous figures in Bible history. Through careful storytelling, emotional depth and a fresh perspective, Dimyan brings Judas to life in a way that will linger with viewers long after the season ends. For audiences worldwide, the challenge is to engage with the story openly, to see the complexity of human choices and appreciate the craftsmanship behind this interpretation.

And as Dimyan wryly concludes, playing Judas wasn’t an easy decision. But, in the end, “They paid me. How could I say no?”

Should we be wary of the mysterious structure that just appeared in Area 51?

In a world where UFO sightings have become more prevalent, structural discoveries have been made underneath the pyramids and even under the sea, it’s not a surprise to hear that there may also be something out-of-this-world in none other than Area 51. And the evidence for this is shocking.

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As the Daily Mail reported, an out-of-place structure in the Nevada desert at Area 51 was recently noticed on Google Maps. The image, as the Daily Mail noted, has been compared to “…a skyscraper, an exhaust vent and even a Dyson air purifier.”

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This has certainly sparked intrigue online with people claiming that it looks like “alien technology” and that it was made for the purpose of creating the “theoretical conversation.”

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As sightings and discoveries like this increase across the globe—from mysterious underwater ruins to ancient structures suddenly revealed—many are beginning to wonder if something greater is being unveiled. Could it be that the enemy is using these anomalies to prepare the world for a great deception?

As society becomes more fascinated by the supernatural and unknown, it’s crucial for the church to remain grounded in the truth of God’s Word. We must not be swayed by sensationalism or fear, but recognize the spiritual implications behind these growing phenomena. Now more than ever, spiritual discernment is key.

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Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

Have you been praying the wrong way this whole time?

In a powerful video, Lisa and Christian Bevere look at the topic of prayer and the missing piece that many Christians have not yet included in their time of intercession: boldness.

Prayer isn’t reserved for the spiritually elite—it’s the right and privilege of every believer. Through the blood of Jesus, we have been granted access to the very throne room of God. Unlike worldly leaders who may limit access or require appointments, God invites us to come boldly at any time. It’s not about the eloquence of our words but the position of our hearts. Whether in weakness or strength, joy or sorrow, we can approach Him confidently, knowing we are heard and loved.

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Understanding the Types of Prayer
Prayer is multi-faceted, and recognizing the different types helps us engage with God more fully.

Intercessory prayer allows us to stand in the gap for others, partnering with heaven for breakthrough in their lives. Petition brings our needs before the Father, who delights in caring for His children.

Consecration prayer invites us to surrender, saying, “Not my will, but Yours be done.”

Protection prayers are vital in today’s world, asking for God’s covering over our lives.

Meditative and contemplative prayers draw us into stillness, where His voice becomes clearer.

Adoration and thanksgiving shift our focus from problems to the greatness of God.

Confession clears the way for intimacy, and supplication teaches us humility as we ask with reverence and trust.

God Still Speaks
Not only should we know what kinds of prayers can be offered up to God, but we should confidently recognize that God is not silent.

He speaks through His Word, through creation through moments of worship, and through the quiet whisper in our spirit. But to hear Him, we must be willing to slow down and listen. Too often, we approach prayer with pre-formed outcomes, telling God how to fix our problems. But faith calls us to trust that His plans exceed our own, even when they unfold differently than expected. When we stay in the Word and cultivate an ear to hear, we become more attuned to His voice and more confident in His direction.

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Confidence Through Relationship
Confidence in prayer grows out of relationship. As we remain in Christ, aligning our hearts with His truth, we find freedom to ask boldly. We don’t need to shrink back in fear or uncertainty. Even when the answer is “no” or “not yet,” we can rest in knowing that God’s ways are higher and His love is constant.

Every response from God is filtered through His wisdom and goodness. When we trust His heart, we can pray with boldness, believing He hears and answers according to His perfect will.

Surrendering Our Desires
Desires are not bad in themselves—many are placed in our hearts by God. But it’s crucial to hold them loosely. When we cling too tightly, we risk turning those desires into idols. Surrender is not giving up; it’s giving over. It means saying, “Lord, this is what I want—but I trust You to give what’s best.”

Sometimes, what we release in prayer, God returns in a better form than we imagined. Other times, He redirects us entirely. Either way, surrendered prayer draws us closer to His heart and deepens our trust.

Prayer and Discernment
True spiritual growth involves both Word and Spirit. Prayer isn’t just about speaking—it’s about discerning. As we grow in our relationship with God, our prayers become more aligned with His will. We stop praying from a place of anxiety or fleshly desire, and instead, we pray from a place of faith and understanding. Discernment sharpens through time in Scripture, sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, and a willingness to be corrected.

When prayer becomes our lifestyle—not just a discipline—we walk in greater wisdom, clarity and peace.

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Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

Are your words limiting what happens in your life? If so, how can we change what comes next?

Apostolic voice and best-selling author John Eckhardt is reminding believers of a timeless truth straight from the words of Jesus in Mark 11:23–24: “You can have what you say.”

In a recent teaching, Eckhardt unpacks this revelation with a fresh urgency, calling the church to return to a life governed by faith-filled confession.

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The Law of Faith: Believe and Speak

“The law of faith is believing and speaking,” Eckhardt declares. “Faith works by believing in the heart and speaking with the mouth.” In Mark 11:23, Jesus emphasizes “say” or “say it” three times, while “believe” is mentioned only once — pointing to the importance of our words in manifesting God’s promises.

Eckhardt stresses that faith is not passive. It doesn’t stop at mental agreement — it demands verbal activation. Believers must move beyond hoping silently to speaking boldly. Faith must be released through the mouth to create movement in the spirit realm.

Words Locate You: Faith or Doubt?

“Your words locate you,” Eckhardt teaches. “They reveal your faith or your doubt.” Citing Proverbs 18:21 and James 3:6, he urges believers to recognize that words are containers — of faith or fear, life or death. “Many people speak sickness, defeat and lack — and then live in it.”

He teaches that what flows from the mouth is evidence of what fills the heart. If doubt and fear dominate your speech, they will direct your life. But when your words are aligned with the Word of God, they become instruments of divine power. They set the trajectory of your life.

Speak to the Mountain, Not About It

Mountains in Scripture represent obstacles — debt, sickness, oppression. Eckhardt exhorts, “Don’t talk about the mountain — speak to it.” Believers must stop confessing the problem and start declaring the Word. “Speak what you desire according to God’s Word, not what you see, feel or fear.”

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Too often, Christians magnify their struggles by rehearsing them out loud. But faith-filled speech speaks to the situation, not about it. Jesus never told His disciples to climb the mountain — He told them to cast it into the sea with bold, unwavering declarations.

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Faith Has No Feelings

Eckhardt reminds listeners that biblical faith isn’t governed by emotions. “We walk by faith and not by sight. Faith doesn’t go by how you feel — it goes by what God says.”

Eckhardt points out that feelings fluctuate, but God’s Word is constant. If believers rely on how they feel to determine their confession, they will constantly waver. Faith holds its ground, even when emotions scream otherwise. The discipline of confession is not based on how we feel, but on what God has already declared.

Repent and Reframe Your Speech

“Identify areas where your words have limited your life,” he instructs. “Repent for speaking unbelief and fear.” Eckhardt leads believers to pray: “God, forgive me for operating in fear, doubt and unbelief. I renounce it. I change my speech.”

Words like “nothing ever changes,” “I always get sick,” or “I never have enough” must be rooted out. They do not align with the promises of God. Eckhardt encourages believers to replace these declarations with God’s truth and actively repent for empowering the enemy through negative confession.

Daily Confessions Shape Destiny

Eckhardt stresses consistency: “What you consistently say is what you’ll eventually have.” He encourages writing personalized, Scripture-based confessions for healing, finances, family and more. “You are today where your words have brought you. You will be tomorrow where your words take you.”

He emphasizes training your mouth — just as athletes train their bodies. Daily decrees, even when circumstances remain unchanged, build spiritual momentum. Faith grows when spoken, not just believed. And what begins as discipline becomes a lifestyle of supernatural breakthrough.

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Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

What could ChatGPT, Barbie and prophecy all have in common?

A brand-new trend soaring on social media uses ChatGPT to take your photo and generate a version to look like Barbie dolls. However, could there be something even deeper behind this message?

The “Barbie Box Challenge,” while seemingly lighthearted, is not the first time that the topic has come up in the last couple of years. Even just a few months ago, Mattel was in hot water after releasing Wicked dolls that reportedly took viewers to adult content sites when the wrong link was placed on boxes. Now, Barbie is trying to make another comeback. However, is this really necessary?

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During the release of the Barbie movie in 2023, Jonathan Cahn explored the deeper, spiritual implications that the seemingly innocent film had on society. His takeaway on that film truly exposed the reality behind this brand.

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Cahn connected the Barbie doll to an ancient, spiritual narrative, drawing parallels between the doll and the Mesopotamian goddess Ishtar. Ishtar is associated with the goddess of sexuality and independence, often depicted as a young woman who rejects traditional roles of marriage and motherhood.

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Just as Ishtar was depicted as a powerful, independent figure who dominated over her male counterpart, Tammuz, the “Barbie” movie’s plot similarly undermines the role of Ken and other male characters, portraying them as secondary or even irrelevant. This is a direct reflection of how the Barbie doll, traditionally a symbol of femininity, has evolved into a character who, like Ishtar, subjugates the male presence and promotes a worldview where men are not needed. In fact, Cahn argues, this is indicative of a broader societal shift where the complementary nature of men and women is being erased, and traditional roles are being disregarded.

The Barbie box challenge, while a playful and seemingly innocent trend on social media, just may serve as a powerful visual metaphor for this cultural shift that the film first presented. Instead of embracing who we already were created to be in Christ, this challenge could be promoting a false identity that contradicts the true purpose and value found in Christ.

While Barbie may appear perfect inside her neatly arranged box, this idealized image is not the truth of who we are as individuals. The challenge, much like the movie itself, promotes a shallow view of identity—one based on external appearances and cultural ideals rather than on the unique and purposeful identity that God has designed for each person. Instead of celebrating the fullness of who they are in Christ, individuals may find themselves trapped in a box of worldly expectations, constantly striving to fit into a mold that never truly reflects their true worth or purpose.

By rejecting the false images presented by pop culture, believers can live out their true identity and fulfill the roles that God has designed for them, free from the confines of the “box” that the world seeks to impose.

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Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

Christian music artist Amy Grant is facing an unlikely legal battle for the sake of saving her family’s historic church.

According to the Christian Post, the Christian singer along with other family members are fighting to save the former Central Church of Christ, now Nashville Church of Christ, which was started by her great-grandfather, Andrew Mizell “A.M.” Burton.

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Grant told the Wall Street Journal that for her, the revival of the church building is “…all about the legacy of A.M. me, the family has to get involved because otherwise that property is at a standstill. And that doesn’t make any sense.”

The church, which has been boarded up for years, has been held up in a legal battle for years. As the Wall Street Journal notes, this issue stems from accusations that Shawn Mathis, a businessman, “took control of the church and its assets – totaling millions – by pushing out longtime members and installing a handful of supporters who are paid from church coffers…” It is believed that this took place in hopes of utilizing the building for non-profit efforts.

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On the flip side, Mathis says that these claims are false, discussing how the church is being used to support the Church of Christ denomination. He believes the fight over the building is because of its estimated $30 million value.

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Previously, Burton’s deed for the church required that it would be used as a Church of Christ center, and if that criteria was not met, it would be returned to his estate. While the church was a bustling center for years, its size died down within the past few years. According to decades-long church member, Howell Townes, Mathis joined the church in 2017, became an elder and soon overtook the board. The church held their final service in 2018.

As Grant and her family continue to investigate and regain control over the property, more than $500,000 in unpaid taxes were discovered.

This situation is not just a legal matter, but a deeply spiritual one, touching on family legacy, stewardship and the honoring of God’s work through generations. As this legal battle continues to unfold, let us lift up Amy Grant and her family in prayer, as well as all parties involved. Pray for wisdom, justice and peace to prevail. Ask the Lord to bring clarity to what is hidden, healing where there is division and restoration to what was meant for His glory.

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Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media

In a candid and transparent statement, Christian music artist Lecrae addressed the criticism and misconceptions he’s faced over the years, offering a fresh perspective on repentance, personal growth and the journey of faith.

Lecrae began by discussing the concept of repentance, noting that, too often, people mistake personal preferences and wisdom for absolutes. One of the key elements he discussed was the backlash he’s recently received after agreeing to appear on Russell Brand’s podcast. “I got to looking at these comments and I was public enemy number one,” Lecrae shared. “I have forgotten that there were tribes and subsects of Christians that hate me. Literally, I think they despise me.”

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Some of the most common accusations, however, involved Lecrae’s past attendance at Sean “Diddy” Combs’ parties.

When it came to these accusations, Lecrae was direct in his response. “I’ve been to parties, yeah, I’ve been to parties a couple of them,” he admitted. Lecrae explained that, when at those parties, he didn’t see anything nefarious going on, nor was it known for those types of activities. Instead, he compared it to more of “a celebrity barbecue,” as a time of networking with other people. He emphasized that his appearance at such events did not include debauchery.

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Lecrae went on to address the deeper, personal criticism surrounding abortion. “I forced my girlfriend years ago to have an abortion. I have since regretted that for every day of my life,” he said with emotion. “I’m not even trying to get emotional on this, but like I have not—I never will be OK with the sacrifice of human life for the benefit of people just being able to do what they want to do.”

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Finally, Lecrae took time to reflect on his own journey of repentance. “What is repentance? It’s a change,” he stated. “A lot of people don’t pay attention to you for years, and all of a sudden you pop up on their screen, and you’re like, ‘Ah, he needs to repent.’ My brother, my sister, that was 10 years ago, eight, nine years ago. What’s going on?”

The artist also touched on the importance of empathy in the faith journey, urging Christians to resist judgment. With honesty and humility, Lecrae’s message to the church is clear: true repentance is about change, and the church must be a place of grace, understanding and restoration—rather than legalism and judgment.

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Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.