A Journey into the Manger: Retelling the Nativity through Scripture and Sacred Imagination
Watch First: The Christmas Story – Full Introduction
For Bible Study Use Only – All Video Rights Belong to The Chosen LLC and Angel Studios
Introduction: A Fresh Look at an Ancient Story
The Christmas story is more than a seasonal tradition—it’s the breathtaking hinge of redemptive history, where prophecy meets fulfillment, eternity steps into time, and the Savior of the world is born in obscurity. In The Christmas Story with Gary & Chris, we invite you to slow down, lean in, and experience the Nativity not as a static tableau, but as a living moment—one filled with wonder, worship, and world-altering significance.
This three-part series blends two cinematic treasures from The Chosen—The Shepherd and The Messenger—into a cohesive, devotional journey. These aren’t just dramatizations. They’re meditative windows into the biblical narrative, crafted with reverence, imagination, and historical depth. Gary and Chris walk alongside you in each session, opening the Scriptures, highlighting theological themes, and reflecting on what it means to receive the King of kings in everyday places and unexpected ways.
About the Films: The Chosen Christmas Special
The Shepherd (2017) and The Messenger (2021) are short films produced by Dallas Jenkins and the team behind The Chosen, each centering on the birth of Jesus Christ—but from unique and meaningful vantage points.
- The Shepherd tells the story from the perspective of a disabled, outcast shepherd named Simon. It highlights God’s heart for the lowly and forgotten, echoing Luke 2:8–20 where angels proclaim the birth of Messiah not to priests or princes—but to shepherds in a field.
- The Messenger weaves together Mary’s eyewitness account of Jesus’ birth with the Gospel-writing process of Luke, offering a rich theological backdrop rooted in the humanity of the Holy Family and the faithfulness of divine revelation.
These films are deeply respectful of Scripture, while artistically filling in plausible historical and emotional details—what we might call “sanctified imagination.” They bring to life the real tension, trust, and triumph surrounding Christ’s incarnation.
The Bible Study Sessions: A Walk Through the Story
Each session in The Christmas Story with Gary & Chris invites you to explore a scene of the Nativity narrative, accompanied by Scripture, discussion, and visual storytelling.
Session 1 – The Road to Bethlehem
The journey begins in Nazareth, where Mary receives angelic news, and Joseph wrestles with the scandal of grace. As they travel to Bethlehem, we reflect on God’s sovereign timing (Galatians 4:4) and His use of ordinary people to fulfill extraordinary promises.
Here we enter the chaos of census crowds, closed doors, and cramped spaces. Yet amid the hustle, a quiet miracle unfolds. Christ is born—not in a palace, but in poverty. We consider the humility of the incarnation and the silent sovereignty of a God who chooses weakness to reveal His glory.
The shepherds arrive, the angels rejoice, and Mary treasures every word. This final session brings us to the very feet of Jesus, wrapped in cloth and lying in a manger. It’s a call to worship, to witness, and to walk away forever changed—just like those first shepherds did.
Purpose and Permissions
This resource is created for educational and devotional use only—specifically for the Sunday Night Bible Study. We do not own the videos used. All copyrights remain with:
- The Chosen LLC – https://new.thechosen.tv
- Angel Studios – https://www.angel.com/home
We strongly encourage you to support their ministry by watching the official versions and contributing to their future productions.
Watch the original (and better-cut) episodes directly:
Why It Matters: More Than a Story
The beauty of these episodes isn’t just in their production—it’s in their purpose. They lift our eyes to the Savior who came not merely to be admired as a baby in a cradle, but to be received as King and Redeemer. By weaving Scripture, history, and humble storytelling, The Christmas Story with Gary & Chris helps us remember:
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” — Luke 2:11 (LSB)
Let us not miss the miracle. Come and see.
Copyright and Usage Disclaimer
Copyright Notice:
This study incorporates visual content from The Chosen Christmas Special, including:
- The Shepherd (Watch Original)
- The Messenger (Watch Official Cut)
These films are the property of The Chosen LLC and Angel Studios.
We do not own, monetize, or distribute the video content. This study is used exclusively for educational and devotional purposes within the Sunday Night Bible Study.
Please support the creators by visiting: