Christian television has evolved significantly over the years, offering a variety of shows and series that cater to different audiences while sharing the timeless truths of the Bible. These programs range from dramatic retellings of biblical stories to contemporary narratives that reflect Christian values and principles. Below, I will recommend several Christian TV shows and series that have made a notable impact, providing both entertainment and spiritual enrichment.
The Chosen
One of the most highly acclaimed Christian TV series in recent years is The Chosen. Created by Dallas Jenkins, this multi-season series offers a fresh and deeply human portrayal of the life of Jesus Christ and His interactions with His disciples. The series stands out for its character development, giving viewers a more personal and relatable understanding of the biblical figures.
The Chosen has been praised for its historical and cultural accuracy, as well as its emotional depth. It brings to life the stories recorded in the Gospels, such as the calling of Matthew (Matthew 9:9-13), the wedding at Cana (John 2:1-12), and the conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-26). The series is available for free through a unique crowd-funding model, making it accessible to a global audience.
A.D. The Bible Continues
Produced by Mark Burnett and Roma Downey, A.D. The Bible Continues is a follow-up to the successful miniseries The Bible. This series picks up where the first left off, starting with the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ and continuing through the early days of the Christian Church as recorded in the Book of Acts.
The series provides a dramatic and engaging depiction of the apostles' struggles and triumphs as they spread the Gospel amidst persecution and political turmoil. Key events such as the Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4), the conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-19), and Peter's miraculous escape from prison (Acts 12:1-19) are vividly brought to life. A.D. The Bible Continues is an excellent resource for those looking to deepen their understanding of the early Christian Church.
The Bible
Another notable series by Mark Burnett and Roma Downey is The Bible. This miniseries aired on the History Channel and covers major events from both the Old and New Testaments. The series begins with the story of Noah and the Ark (Genesis 6-9) and continues through the life of Jesus Christ, culminating in His resurrection.
The Bible is known for its high production values and compelling storytelling. It provides a sweeping overview of biblical history, making it an excellent introduction for those new to the Bible, as well as a visually engaging experience for long-time believers.
VeggieTales
For younger audiences, VeggieTales has been a beloved staple for decades. Created by Phil Vischer and Mike Nawrocki, this animated series uses anthropomorphic vegetables to teach biblical stories and moral lessons. Each episode features a unique and often humorous retelling of a Bible story, along with catchy songs and memorable characters.
Episodes such as "Dave and the Giant Pickle" (a retelling of David and Goliath from 1 Samuel 17) and "Josh and the Big Wall" (the story of Joshua and the Battle of Jericho from Joshua 6) have delighted and educated children for years. VeggieTales is not only entertaining but also provides a solid foundation in biblical literacy for young viewers.
Superbook
Superbook is another excellent animated series for children, originally produced in the 1980s and later rebooted with updated animation and storytelling. The series follows two children, Chris and Joy, and their robot friend Gizmo, who are transported back in time to witness key events in biblical history.
Episodes cover a wide range of stories, from the creation of the world (Genesis 1-2) to the life and ministry of Jesus (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John). Superbook combines adventure and education, making it a valuable tool for teaching children about the Bible in an engaging way.
Touched by an Angel
For those who enjoy a blend of drama and inspirational messages, Touched by an Angel is a classic series that aired from 1994 to 2003. The show follows three angels—Monica, Tess, and Andrew—who are sent to Earth to help people facing various life challenges. Each episode features a unique story, with the angels offering guidance, comfort, and encouragement.
While not directly retelling biblical stories, Touched by an Angel conveys Christian values and themes such as forgiveness, redemption, and God's love. The show often includes scripture references and emphasizes the importance of faith and prayer.
Jesus of Nazareth
Jesus of Nazareth is a classic miniseries directed by Franco Zeffirelli that originally aired in 1977. This epic retelling of the life of Jesus Christ is renowned for its faithful adherence to the Gospels and its powerful performances, particularly by Robert Powell in the title role.
The miniseries covers the birth, ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus, drawing from all four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John). It remains a beloved and respected portrayal of the life of Christ, offering a reverent and moving depiction of His earthly ministry.
The Bible Project
While not a traditional TV series, The Bible Project is an invaluable resource for those seeking to understand the Bible more deeply. This online series of animated videos provides overviews and explanations of biblical books and themes, making complex theological concepts accessible and engaging.
The creators, Tim Mackie and Jon Collins, use visual storytelling to explore the literary structure and theological significance of the Bible. Topics such as "The Covenants" and "The Kingdom of God" are presented in a way that is both informative and visually appealing. The Bible Project videos are available for free on their website and YouTube channel, making them an excellent resource for personal study or group discussions.
Conclusion
These recommended Christian TV shows and series offer a range of options for different audiences and preferences. From dramatic retellings of biblical stories to contemporary narratives that reflect Christian values, these programs provide both entertainment and spiritual enrichment. Whether you are looking to deepen your understanding of the Bible, introduce children to its stories, or find inspiration and encouragement, these series are valuable resources that can strengthen your faith and knowledge of God's Word.
