Between the Temple and the Cross: The Calm Before the Storm
As The Chosen Season 5 continues its climactic path toward the crucifixion, every new episode carries a heightened weight of destiny, conflict, and spiritual urgency. Episode 2, House of Cards, delivered a series of game-changing moments—Jesus cleansing the Temple, disciples stepping into uncertain roles, and political forces beginning to stir with deadly intent.
With that foundation, Episode 3 is expected to discuss the escalating tension between Jesus and the religious elite, while also exploring the inner cracks forming among his closest followers. Though not yet the breaking point, Episode 3 may very well be the tipping point.
When Righteousness Collides with Power
One of the most explosive moments in The Chosen so far came at the end of Episode 2: Jesus, overcome with righteous fury, drives merchants and moneychangers out of the Temple with a whip—an act that was both deeply symbolic and openly defiant. His passionate rebuke of materialism in God’s house won him admiration from some, but drew a dangerous spotlight from others.
In Episode 3, we can expect to see the consequences begin to take shape.
The High Priest Caiaphas, already uneasy with Jesus’ growing influence, now has public justification to escalate matters. His earlier visit to King Herod exposed his fear that Jesus' popularity would provoke a Roman crackdown—and now, with a public outburst in the Temple, that fear will only intensify. We may see the Sanhedrin convene in secret to debate their next move, perhaps even begin plotting Jesus’ arrest. Some members might hesitate, torn between faith and politics, while others—like Annas—will likely push for immediate action.
There’s also the question of Rome. While Pilate hasn’t appeared yet this season, his presence looms large. Jesus disturbing the peace in Jerusalem during Passover—the most politically volatile time of year—won’t go unnoticed for long. Episode 3 may lay the groundwork for Roman involvement, even if it is subtle for now.
Emboldened Yet Uneasy
As Jesus confronts the powers of Jerusalem, his disciples face their own tests of courage and faith. Episode 2 showed a group increasingly splintered between boldness and fear, success and self-doubt.
Peter, always impulsive, seemed eager to preach but anxious about doing it alone. John, despite his deep devotion, struggled with public speaking and required assistance in recalling his testimony. Thomas is still haunted by Ramah’s death and the blame he shoulders from her father. And Simon Z is watching—watching the crowd, watching the shadows, and especially watching the mysterious figure taking notes.
The mysterious observer could become a critical element in Episode 3. Is he a Pharisee spy? A Roman informant? Or perhaps someone like Nicodemus—a conflicted soul drawn toward truth but trapped in a life of secrecy? If Simon Z’s concerns prove valid, the disciples could be in far greater danger than they realize.
Episode 3 may give us a dramatic moment where this spy confronts one of the disciples or is exposed in the crowd. Such a scene would force the group to re-evaluate their public ministry, just as Jesus warned during the Last Supper flash-forwards—that the time of peaceful preaching is ending, and danger is near.
Echoes of the Last Supper
One of the most effective storytelling devices this season is the use of out-of-time glimpses into the Last Supper—Jesus’ final intimate hours with the twelve. These moments function as both prophecy and memory, layering emotion and dread over every scene in the present timeline.
In Episode 3, we might return to the upper room and witness another private exchange between Jesus and his disciples. Perhaps we’ll see the moment Jesus predicts that Peter will deny him three times, planting seeds of fear and heartbreak. Or perhaps we’ll witness Jesus washing his disciples’ feet—a striking contrast to the power plays that were happening back in the Temple.
All of these scenes will serve as emotional foreshadowing, reminding the viewer (and the disciples) that sacrifice and separation are just around the corner. The burden is growing heavier, and Jesus is preparing his friends for a journey they aren’t ready for—yet.
The Lazarus Plot
King Herod’s chilling idea from Episode 2—killing Lazarus to diminish Jesus’ credibility—may begin to materialize in Episode 3. We might see a quiet scene in Bethany where Lazarus starts to notice he’s being watched. Or perhaps a messenger is sent with a warning: Lazarus must lay low, or he risks becoming the next target of those threatened by his miraculous return from the dead; this subplot could add suspense and deepen the theme of innocent lives becoming pawns in a deadly political game. It also highlights how a fear of the truth can lead men to do terrible things—Herod being a prime example.
Jerusalem on Edge: The City Watches, the Crowd Whispers
Let’s not forget the bigger picture—Jerusalem is crowded with pilgrims, tension is thick in the air, and whispers about the “Son of David” are spreading faster than ever. In Episode 3, the public may start to fracture. Some may view Jesus as a prophet, others as a threat, and some—as the one true Messiah. That uncertainty could spark friction among the people and even among Jesus’ own followers.
We may also see characters like Nicodemus or Joseph of Arimathea emerge, possibly intrigued by Jesus’ defiance. Quiet observers in the first few seasons, they could now be drawn into the fray.
Final Prediction: A Storm Gathering, Slowly and Surely
While Episode 2 was marked by action and confrontation, Episode 3 will likely turn inward. It may focus more on subtle shifts—hearts hardening, loyalties wavering, and lines being drawn between the kingdom of God and the kingdoms of men. We expect a slow burn, a gathering storm where silence is more dangerous than shouts.
The Chosen has never been about spectacle for spectacle’s sake. Instead, it gently builds emotional tension until the impact is deeply felt. Episode 3 will likely continue that tradition, revealing that before the cross comes the conflict, and before glory comes the garden of suffering.
Brace for an episode that is rich in detail, heavy with foreshadowing, and filled with moments that will quietly haunt us all the way to Calvary.
Read more: The Chosen Season 5
