Must-See Christian Content: 5 Shows (and 4 Films) You Should Be Watching
Christian television has finally entered a new era - one where excellence and spiritual depth are no longer mutually exclusive. What used to be niche or underwhelming is now becoming beautiful, bold, and binge-worthy.
This shift isn't just exciting for faith-driven creatives - it's meaningful for all of us who long to see God glorified through stories, not just through Sunday sermons. Whether it’s exploring faith in a fresh way, or following characters whose lives reflect the mess and mercy of the gospel, today’s Christian media is finally stepping into its calling with real craftsmanship.
Here are my picks for must-watch Christian shows and films that reflect that movement with clarity and conviction.
📺 5 Must-Watch Christian TV Shows
These aren’t just shows with a cross in the background - these are the ones worth sitting down for. Scripted, well-acted, and spiritually grounded, each one brings something real to the table. Whether you're craving biblical epics, heartfelt dramas, or modern faith in action, this lineup doesn’t just entertain - it edifies.
1. The Chosen
⭐️ Where to watch: The Chosen app, Prime Video, Peacock
Let’s start with the obvious: The Chosen is the trailblazer. It's the first multi-season series about the life of Jesus, and it completely redefined what faith-based television could be. Creator Dallas Jenkins ensures The Chosen doesn’t pretend to be the Bible; it aims to draw people to it.
With its sharp writing, heartfelt performances, and high production value, the series brings the life of Jesus into focus like never before. It’s not afraid to imagine the moments between the verses, and that’s part of its power - it invites you to see the disciples not just as apostles, but as people.
Jesus (played by Jonathan Roumie) is deeply human and divinely mysterious. The disciples are flawed, funny, confused, and compelling. It’s beautifully shot, often profound, and unafraid to take creative liberties that deepen the narrative without diluting Scripture.
With every season, it reminds us that Scripture is alive - and that Jesus is still calling the unlikely to follow Him. It’s a show that continues to open doors for conversations about Jesus across every culture and denomination. And that’s something I can definitely get behind.
2. House of David
⭐️ Where to watch: Angel Studios (Streaming now)
This series has sparked conversation - and for good reason.
House of David brings one of the Bible’s most iconic stories to the screen with cinematic scope and a modern tone. Visually, it’s striking. The sets and costuming are immersive. And its spiritual core? Still intact. The show absolutely glorifies God, especially in how it portrays His hand on David’s life.
But it’s not without its flaws. It takes creative liberties a little too far at times, but it doesn’t sacrifice God’s glory nor does it dilute the message of David’s life. Another misstep is that the show sometimes leans too heavily into modern colloquialisms like “believe in yourself” - a narrative that feels out of sync in an ancient context and definitely not in line with denying ourselves daily by picking up our cross and following Christ. Still, despite the occasional clash of styles, the heart of the story comes through. The grace of God, the call of the unlikely, and the weight of leadership all hit with force.
It’s not perfect. But it’s powerful.
3. The Baxters
⭐️ Where to watch: Prime Video
Finally, fans of family drama with spiritual depth will love The Baxters. Adapted from Karen Kingsbury’s beloved series, it’s the Christian version of This Is Us - full of love, loss, faith, and generational dynamics. It’s a character-driven family drama that wears its faith on its sleeve, but doesn’t shy away from struggle. Marriages get messy. Kids rebel. Grief hits hard. And yet, faith threads through it all.
Is it a little idealistic at times? Sure. But that’s part of the charm. It shows how faith and family collide in real, raw, redemptive ways.
With crisp production values, strong performances, and storylines that resonate, it’s a great example of faith meeting real life without veering into cliché. Plus, with Roma Downey starring as the matriarch, you can expect some serious heart tugs. If you're looking for something emotional, inspiring, and grounded in Scripture, this show is worth the watch.
4. Vindication
⭐️ Where to watch: Pure Flix, Amazon Prime
If you like crime dramas with a conscience, Vindication is a hidden gem. Think CSI, but with a heart for the gospel as well as spiritual depth. It follows Detective Travis (Todd Terry), a man of principle and patience, as he solves crimes in a small Texas town - while wrestling with his own faith journey. It doesn’t shy away from darkness, but it doesn’t wallow in it either.
It’s not preachy - it’s patient. And that’s what makes it work. Smartly written and sincerely acted, this is Christian storytelling with teeth.
What sets Vindication apart is its realism. These aren’t Hallmark-movie Christians. These are flawed, struggling people trying to live out their faith in a broken world. I found myself surprised at how invested I became, and how often an episode led to prayer - not because it was "devotional content," but because it felt like life.
5. County Rescue
⭐️ Where to watch: Great American Pure Flix
County Rescue is a fresh, fast-paced drama that follows the lives of EMTs in a small-town rescue unit. But don’t let the adrenaline fool you - this isn’t just about emergencies. It’s about people trying to live out their faith while carrying the weight of real responsibility.
What sets this show apart is its sincerity. The characters aren’t perfect - they’re searching, learning, and occasionally stumbling, but faith isn’t just a backdrop here. It’s part of the heartbeat. You’ll see prayer woven into hard decisions, spiritual questions rise in the middle of chaos, and relationships tested under real pressure.
The writing is solid, the cast feels authentic, and the stakes are both emotional and eternal. It’s a rare kind of show that blends character development with quiet moments of conviction. If you’re looking for something modern, meaningful, and grounded in Christian values without being preachy, this one earns its spot.
🎥 4 Christian Films to Watch For
I have big anticipation for these films - and for good reason. With proven directors, strong casts, and stories rooted in redemption, sacrifice, and hope, these releases just might become the next must-sees in faith-based cinema. I’m watching these with expectation—and prayer.
1. Between Borders
⭐️ Where to watch: January 26th, 2025 (Limited release); March 4th, 2025 (VOD/Digital)
🎬 Directed by: Peter Craig
🎭 Starring: Kristoffer Polaha, Stelio Savante, Elizabeth Tabish, and Jenn Gotzon
Between Borders is more than a film - it’s a modern parable rooted in history. Inspired by true events, it follows a family’s daring escape from religious persecution in the Soviet Union as they seek freedom in the West. But this isn’t just about crossing borders. No, it’s about spiritual courage in the face of real danger.
Directed by Peter Craig, the film delivers emotional depth and narrative tension without losing its spiritual center. Kristoffer Polaha anchors the story with strength and sincerity, while Stelio Savante brings a compelling edge to the political backdrop. And for fans of The Chosen, there’s a familiar face here: Elizabeth Tabish, who plays Mary Magdalene in the hit series, steps into the role of Violetta Petrosyan. Once again, she brings the kind of quiet intensity and layered vulnerability that makes you lean in and feel everything.
The beauty of Between Borders lies in its restraint. It lets the weight of sacrifice, faith, and family speak for themselves. In this story, prayer isn’t polished - it’s raw. Scripture isn’t a background prop - it’s survival.
This film is a reminder that religious freedom hasn’t always been a given, and for many, it still isn’t. Between Borders challenges us to treasure the freedom we have and to remember those who fought for it with nothing but their faith to carry them.
2. The Resurrection of the Christ
⭐️ Where to watch: In theaters Easter 2026 (anticipated release)
🎬 Directed by: Mel Gibson
🎭 Starring: Jim Caviezel (Jesus), Maia Morgenstern (Mary), Francesco De Vito (Peter)
Two decades after The Passion of the Christ shook global audiences, Mel Gibson returns with the long-awaited sequel: The Resurrection of the Christ. While still in production and largely under wraps, the film is slated to release in 2026, aiming to capture the most hope-filled, miraculous event in human history - the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Gibson has hinted at a scope that goes far beyond the empty tomb. The story is said to unfold over three days - from the crucifixion to the resurrection - but may also include spiritual warfare, the harrowing of hell, and the emotional journey of the disciples as their world unravels before being turned upside down with joy. Gibson himself has said it touches on “cosmic” elements, and actor Jim Caviezel has described it as the “biggest film in history”.
With Jim Caviezel reprising his role as Jesus and Maia Morgenstern returning as Mary, there’s a familiar weight and reverence already built in. Francesco De Vito also returns as Peter, adding emotional continuity from the first film. The original’s intensity, spiritual gravity, and visual boldness set a high bar, but that’s exactly why anticipation is so high.
What I’m hoping for? That this won’t just be a sequel. That it’ll be a resurrection in more ways than one. A reawakening. A cinematic encounter with the living Christ. I pray it brings the power of the resurrection into focus in a way that pierces through culture, doubt, and apathy - and reminds the world that the tomb is still empty.
3. I Can Only Imagine 2
⭐️ Where to watch: In theaters March 20, 2026 (anticipated)
🎬 Directed by: Jon and Andrew Erwin
🎭 Starring: John Michael Finley (Bart Millard), Dennis Quaid (Arthur Millard), Trace Adkins, and Joel Courtney
Eight years after the original film brought millions to tears and unexpectedly dominated the box office, I Can Only Imagine 2 is on its way. Hopes are high that it will deliver just as much heart, healing, and hope.
This sequel continues the story of MercyMe frontman, Bart Millard, digging deeper into the life that followed his breakout success. While the first film centered on forgiveness between father and son, I Can Only Imagine 2 is expected to explore what happens when God answers your biggest prayer - and life still hurts anyway.
The original cast returns, with John Michael Finley once again portraying Bart with rawness and authenticity. Dennis Quaid, unforgettable as Arthur Millard, will appear in flashbacks or legacy scenes, adding emotional weight to Bart’s ongoing journey. Directors Jon and Andrew Erwin (who also helmed American Underdog and Jesus Revolution) are back behind the camera, and that alone promises excellence.
This isn’t just a story about music. It’s a story about faith under pressure: how to lead, how to trust, and how to keep your eyes on Jesus when the platform gets bigger than you ever imagined. If the first movie showed us how powerful forgiveness can be, this sequel may just show us what it means to walk in grace, fame, and grief and not lose your soul in the process.
I'm praying this one hits just as hard. And maybe even a little deeper.
4. The Last Rodeo
⭐️ Where to watch: In theaters May 23, 2025
🎬 Directed by: Jon Avnet
🎭 Starring: Neal McDonough, Sarah Jones, Mykelti Williamson, Christopher McDonald, and Ruvé McDonough
The Last Rodeo isn’t just a story about bull riding - it’s a story about showing up when it matters most. Neal McDonough plays Joe Wainwright, a retired rodeo legend who steps back into the ring to fight for something far more important than a title: his family. Joe’s relationship with his estranged daughter, his grandson, and his past is messy, but it’s real. It’s the kind of redemption story that sticks with you long after the credits roll.
But here’s what made me love it even more: Neal McDonough’s real-life wife, Ruvé McDonough, plays his on-screen wife. He’s long said, as a man of Christian conviction, that he would only ever do romantic scenes with his actual wife. This film honors that boundary and I deeply respect that. In a world where compromise is easy, it’s refreshing to see someone live what they believe without apology.
This film has grit, heart, and a tenderness that sneaks up on you. It reminds us that sometimes the bravest thing we can do is come back - not just to the arena, but to the people we love, even if it’s messy. And sometimes, our last chance is the one that changes everything.
🎬 Honorable Mentions
These films may not have taken center stage (yet), but they’re on my radar for good reason - whether it’s visual promise, gospel potential, or just the kind of story that stays with you.
The King of Kings (Animated Feature)
⭐️ Where to watch: Releasing April 11, 2025
🎬 Directed by: David Batty
🎭 Voices: Oscar Isaac (Jesus), Forest Whitaker, Kenneth Branagh, and Ben Kingsley
This animated retelling of the life of Jesus is inspired by Charles Dickens’ The Life of Our Lord, a book he wrote for his children. With Oscar Isaac voicing Jesus and a powerhouse supporting cast, this film blends reverence with creativity. Early concept art suggests a richly textured visual style - something that could captivate kids and adults alike. If it delivers on its promise, The King of Kings could be the rare animated film that handles Jesus’ story with beauty, depth, and truth. Here’s hoping.
The Chronicles of Narnia (Netflix Series – In Development)
⭐️ Where to watch: Netflix (First release expected Thanksgiving 2026)
🎬 Directed by: Greta Gerwig
This one’s complicated. I grew up loving Narnia - its wonder, its symbolism, and the quiet roar of Aslan echoing the heart of Christ. So hearing that Greta Gerwig is taking the helm of Netflix’s Narnia reboot is… both exciting and nerve-wracking. She’s a talented filmmaker - no question. But with her recent work leaning into modern themes and messaging, I can’t help but feel a bit cautious. Still, I’m choosing hope. Maybe Narnia’s magic will speak for itself. Maybe the deeper magic - truth, sacrifice, resurrection - will shine through. I’ll be watching… with discernment.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s through a quiet moment in a hospital hallway, the roar of a biblical battlefield, or a tearful song on a stadium stage - these stories remind us that faith is still worth telling. And worth telling well.
We’re living in a time where Christian entertainment is finally catching up to its calling: to be both excellent and uncompromising. These shows and films don’t just “fill a gap”. They also speak into the culture with creativity, conviction, and courage.
I’ll be watching, praying, and cheering on the storytellers who keep Christ at the center. And I hope you will too.
~ Tiffany G. Jackson
