A.D. The Bible Continues (TV / NBC) – “Brothers in Arms” (10/12)

Observations

The women were once again portrayed as self-determining, strong-willed individuals in this episode.

Caiaphas is continuing to develop his strength and will. He will no longer kow-tow to Leah’s demands.

Saul felt a little more likable and he didn’t appear quite so “drugged” this time. The producers have placed into Saul’s mouth a selection of texts found in the Epistles.

It’s about the brotherhood of believers and followers of Jesus, even if they don’t quite agree on everything or even necessarily like each other. Others may demand that they come first in loyalty – Zealots and the Temple to name the two most prominent ones cited in this episode – but when it comes down to it, loyalty to Jesus trumps all others.

It’s also about the sisterhood. I thought the male and female sides of following Jesus were both given sufficient development in this episode. It was the women who suffered the most hardships for their faith in this episode.

In this series, Saul is portrayed as against Judaism and all its traditions and rituals, but that is not necessarily supported by critical scholarship. What actual scholarship shows is that Saul/Paul was against Jews requiring Gentiles to become Jews before being accepted into Christian fellowship. Saul/Paul was not against Jews practicing Judaism.

The Ethiopian eunuch, the treasurer of the Queen of Ethiopia, makes his appearance. The entire narrative and plot around his character is imagined, a prelude that leads into Acts 8:26-30.

The narrative around the apostles is found in Acts 9:29-30.

James, the brother of Jesus, makes his first appearance in the series. In Acts he isn’t mentioned until chapter 12. In the series he is a Rabbi and one who is able to make a case for the acceptance of Christians by the leaders of Judaism. This is probably based on the stories that surround James the Just and his traditional faithfulness to Judaism.

The religio-political strife continues to be the primary driver of the plot. The threatened arrival of the image of Caligula which he demanded be placed in the Temple is the key element around which the entire episode revolves. Everyone is afraid of it and the effects it will have in Jerusalem.

This was a decent episode, to which I give a rating of 7 out of 10.

Synopsis

Starts in Galilee. A dream sequence of memories from the past. James, brother of Jesus is having them. It is of Jesus at the Temple when he was twelve, when he was separated from his family. James walking away from Galilee.

Apostles wondering what has happened to Saul and Simon. They believe Caiaphas has both of them. Peter declares he will go and beg for their release. Caiaphas has Saul brought to him. He wonders what has happened to Saul. Saul explains he has found the truth. Caiaphas wants Saul back; back to the Temple; back to the faith. Saul does not renounce his faith in Jesus.

Tabitha, Joanna, and Mary discuss Jesus’ teachings among themselves.

Saul claims he has found Jesus, has found the Messiah, has repented and found forgiveness. There is no more need to pursue ritual purity. There is no need for the Temple or the priests. Caiaphas is not pleased with this turn of events. He slaps Saul across his face. He threatens Saul with physical punishment and imprisonment.

Peter comes out of the house to go to the Temple. Barnabas isn’t sure. Who will lead the fledgling movement if Peter is also killed? Then James, Jesus’ brother, appears.

End of segment one.

The apostles gather, James retells his dream and took that as a sign to go be with the other apostles. He tells them about Jesus’ years of childhood and youth. They tell James of Saul and Simon. James is a Rabbi and thinks that may have some influence in dealing with Caiaphas.

An Ethiopian royal convoy enters Jerusalem. Cornelius goes out with a detachment of soldiers to meet them and inquire as to their business.

Leah is out in the temple courtyard praying when she notices Saul walking past. Caiaphas has let him go. Caiaphas thinks Saul is mad and that his words will eventually doom him. Leah accuses him of weakness. Caiaphas doesn’t want to alienate any Jew, whatever cult or sect they might belong to. He believes all Jews must be united to resist the monstrosity of Caligula’s image that is soon to arrive. Leah doesn’t approve. Caiaphas stands firm.

Cornelius reports to Pilate that no weapons or contraband were found in the Ethiopian convoy. He reports that they have simply come to sacrifice at the Temple. Pilate is still suspicious. Claudia notes that it is one of the Jewish holy days and that people from all over the world come to the Temple. But Pilate wonders why an Ethiopian would do so. Pilate demands to see the Ethiopian – at dinner – with Herod and Herodias.

Leah goes and meets with Eva. She wants to get in contact with the Zealots. Eva refuses until Leah tells her what it is that she wants. Leah wants a man killed.

End of segment two.

Saul appears at the house of the apostles, a free man. Simon is suspicious. He wonders what Saul is up to.

James comes to the Temple. He speaks with Caiaphas. He demands the release of Saul and Simon. Caiaphas says he can’t help. Caiaphas offers a proposal: he will offer them sanctuary and an end to persecution if they respect the Temple. They can come and pray at the Temple. But not Saul. He is not welcome at the Temple.

Caiaphas and the Ethiopian eunuch meet. The Ethiopian offers gifts to Caiaphas and the Temple. Caiaphas offers him a scroll of Isaiah. Cornelius arrives and rudely interrupts and commands a dinner invitation.

Leah is brought to a meeting with Levi. She wants Saul killed. The Zealots have no quarrel with the Nazarenes. Leah accuses Levi of becoming lax in his faith. Levi warns her to be careful with her words, especially in consideration of her accommodations toward Rome. In return for his services, Levi wants Leah to influence Caiaphas to cause a mass killing of Romans when the statue of Caligula arrives.

Herodias is looking for hew new gown to wear to dinner. She goes to look for Tabitha. Claudia bumps into Herodias. Claudia takes Herodias to one of her seamstresses. Tabitha, Joanna, and Mary are talking about baptism and Jesus when Herodias and Claudia walk in on them.

End of segment three.

Claudia will deal with Mary. Herodias banishes Joanna and Tabitha from her household.

James returns to the apostles to present Caiaphas’ offer. They are surprised that the only request is for them to respect the Temple. They can go out, no longer in fear. Saul asks why they need the Temple. Saul explains that with Jesus, the need for the Temple is gone, so why continue to support it? Simon disagrees and leaves.

At dinner with Pilate. Pilate, the eunuch, and Herod debate the nature of Roman peace and governance. Pilate believes there is peace, that the Zealots and the Nazarenes had been quashed. Herod says that there is civility among them. The eunuch questions whether there really is peace or not. Herodias arrives. She states that she had to dismiss one of her seamstresses. The eunuch questions why there wasn’t any forgiveness granted on Yom Kippur. She states that dismissal was an act of forgiveness. Pilate asks what crime was committed. Claudia tries to run interference, but Pilate insists. Herodias states that Tabitha was trying to join the Nazarenes. The eunuch questions Pilate’s earlier claim that the Nazarenes were gone.

Simon sits near the Temple and waits until Levi arrives. Levi asks about Saul. Levi asks Simon to bring Saul to him. What happens to Saul is not Simon’s concern. Simon is concerned, however, because Saul is a brother in Christ. Levi reminds Simon that the promises and loyalties to him take precedence. Levi reminds him of his loyalty to the Temple.

Pilate orders that Joanna and Tabitha be flogged for their “treason”. Claudia tries to talk him out of it, but he remains unmoved. Cornelius asks which one should be flogged first. Tabitha beings to cry. Joanna encourages her to remain strong. Only Tabitha will be flogged.

End of segment four.

Eva and Levi discuss Saul, the Romans, and whether or not Leah can be trusted. Eva isn’t so sure about any of this, including killing Saul who is not a Roman and to her knowledge has not done anything deserving of death.

Levi enters the room of the eunuch, who presents Levi with a chest full of coins.

Pilate and Claudia argue about the treatment of the servants. Pilate is unhappy about Claudia’s public withholding of approval of his actions. He intends to put Joanna to death, but hasn’t figured out how to make it count. Chuza comes to the cell where Joanna is being held.

Saul preaches to the public in Jerusalem. He preaches against the Temple. He preaches that all can be freed from its tyranny. Eva and Simon listen. Simon says they believe some of what Saul preaches. Eva warns that the Nazarenes will be destroyed if Saul continues to preach like that. She wants Simon to deliver Saul to them so they can take care of him after Yom Kippur.

Mary treats Tabitha’s wounds. Claudia comes in and drops off money, medicine and herbs. Pilate is busy and he will not notice if they leave now. She remains silent when asked about the fate of Joanna.

End of segment five.

Temple. Yom Kippur. Two goats being brought in.

Tabitha is with the apostles. Saul speaks to her, encourages her. Simon comes in. Peter tells him that she was beaten, on Pilate’s orders. Simon says he has something to tell Peter. [Cuts away]

Back to the temple. One of the goats is held while Caiaphas lays the sins of the nation upon it, to be led away into the wilderness, to take away their sins. The crowd cheers.

Simon tells Peter and James about the Zealots’ request of him, and of their plans for Saul. James is pretty certain that Saul is a problem for them. His views are too radical. Peter disagrees. Saul walks in and knows they are talking about him.

The scapegoat is led out into the wilderness.

Saul leaves Jerusalem. The apostles wish him well. Saul thinks he ought to stay in Jerusalem where he can do the most good. Peter thinks God has bigger plans for him. Saul tells them that he is trying to drag all of them forward, but no one will listen. Peter assures Saul that this is not excommunication – they will remain brothers and will meet again. Saul goes away by himself.

End of episode ten.

A.D. The Bible Continues (TV / NBC) – “Saul’s Return” (9/12)

Observations

Has anyone else finding Saul to be annoying? Because ever since he showed up in the series, he's been a rather unlikable person. (If that's the intent, the producers have succeeded overwhelmingly.) He also speaks and acts like he's on some kind of substance - oh, say marijuana... It just occurred to me tonight that his scruffy appearance, his almost slurred speech, and his "I don't care what the world thinks" attitude seems like a stereotype of a pot addict... But that's just my observation.

This episode's link to the Bible is found in Acts 9:23-28. 

Historically, there was a threat of a statue of Caligula being placed in the Temple at Jerusalem. It didn't quite happen the way it is described in this program.

This episode portrays the suspicion and dilemma of the apostles as they are confronted with Saul's conversion and his desire to be accepted into the work of gospel ministry. Although Acts 9:26 gives a brief acknowledgment of the apostles' fear, I think this episode did a pretty good job of working through what that fear might have looked like. The text of Acts makes it seem like it was just a simple matter of Barnabas vouching for Saul and all was well, but that seems rather unrealistic.

This exchange highlights one of the problems I've had throughout this series. The problem is with the meaning of forgiveness as understood by it. I've noticed how forgiveness is consistently portrayed as having all the past washed away, all is lovey-dovey, everyone is accepted, and there are no consequences for past actions. When Saul asks Peter for forgiveness, this is what Saul expects. Peter struggles with forgiveness, because to forgive Saul means (at least according to the definition of forgiveness in the series) that means that there is no accountability or responsibility for Saul's past actions. In fact it is with only great reluctance that Saul eve mentions to Peter his acknowledgment of the past. Saul thinks that forgiveness should just be given.

And here I think this series parrots some of the troublesome teachings found in some segments of Christianity: namely that if a person claims genuine conversion and has accepted the forgiveness from God/Jesus, then the church's responsibility is to accept that, without question. (Certain recent events come to mind where a person acknowledges their "sin" before God and claims to be forgiven. Therefore, the past should be forgotten and they should be accepted fully into community, no questions asked.)

After several episodes in which women were rarely seen in prominent roles, this episode returns with a bang the strong women of the series: Claudia, Leah, Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Eva. This episode introduces the character of Tabitha, who may be the one so named in Acts 9:36. In the series, she is a servant in the household of Chuza and Joanna. These women are not content to sit by and wait for events to come upon them. They are involved in making things happen, for good and for evil.

I felt like there was more character development in this episode. The political intrigues continue, but it didn't feel like that was the main plotline. No one seems to be in control of their destinies. Pilate is at the whim of Caligula. Caiaphas seems powerless to do anything constructive. Leah is behind the scenes trying to kill Saul, but how successful will that be? The apostles have been given a huge unknown to deal with: Saul. Agrippa now fears his "friend" Caligula, the emperor.

This was, in my opinion, one of the better episodes in the series. I wasn't banging my head against the table nor grinding my teeth while watching it, as sometimes has been the case during watching of the "terrible" episodes. I give it a 7 out of 10 (which in my history of TV program ratings, means quite decent).

Synopsis

Damascus. Mob with torches seeking Saul after he preaches Jesus in the synagogue. Barnabas finds him and has him lowered down in a basket over the wall to safety. 

Caiaphas, Reuben, and Leah discuss Saul’s conversion. Leah wants Saul shamed and killed. 

Caligula in Jerusalem. As new emperor, he seeks assurances of his subjects’ loyalty. He orders one to kill himself to prove it. Caligula wants his statue all over the empire, including in the Temple. He wants Pilate to make sure it happens. 

End of Segment One.

Saul and Barnabas return to Jerusalem and to the Temple. 

Pilate wants Agrippa to speak with Caligula to stop the statue from going up in the Temple. Agrippa doesn’t think it will work, but he gives a half-hearted word to try. Pilate and Claudia wonder how to stop a madman. 

Reuben and Leah come to Caiaphas to inform him that Saul has been sighted in Jerusalem. 

Barnabas goes to a house with a small fish symbol on the door. He tries to convince the apostles that Saul has changed and wants to speak with them. They are skeptical. Peter and Saul speak away from the others. Saul thinks that claiming to have been converted and to have been baptized should be sufficient for the others to accept him. The others do not accept. Peter wants to hear everything from Saul’s mouth.

End of Segment Two.

Peter remains skeptical. Peter wishes things were clear. Saul believes everything is quite clear. Saul wants to know how someone who has been with Jesus ought to be forgiving and accepting.

Caligula prepares to leave Jerusalem. 

Mary Magdalene comforts Tabitha. Tabitha had been assaulted by Caligula? 

Pilate informs Caiaphas of Caligula’s “gift” of a statue of himself for the Temple. Caiaphas is incensed. This problem isn’t Pilate’s. It is between Caligula and Caiaphas. The wives discuss separately among themselves. Leah suggests using Saul as a scapegoat for resistance against Caligula. Leah uses claims of Jesus as king and Messiah as a threat against Rome’s claims. Claudia is not convinced. 

End of Segment Three.

Saul and Peter continue their dialogue. Saul wants to know why they can’t practice what they preach, and simply accept him. Why can’t they forgive and accept? Saul asks, has Peter ever been forgiven of something awful? Peter realizes, but isn't ready to accept Saul. After all Peter has been Saul's personal vendetta, and has even threatened his daughter.

Temple guards search for Saul. 

Herod Antipas and Herodias are under house-arrest in Jerusalem. Mary Magdalene overhears their talk of a statue in the Temple. They discuss how they can retake power from Pilate and then get rid of Jesus followers. Mary is shocked and runs. She goes to Joanna. Joanna gives her some money to go to the apostles and offer help. Chuza walks in. He is not pleased. Tabitha, overhearing, wonders where Joanna learned to stand up to her husband. Joanna tells her that Jesus gives her the power.

The apostles discuss Mary’s news. They think this has to do with the abomination written in the prophecies of Daniel. When this happens, they think it will fulfill what is necessary for Jesus to return.

End of Segment Four.

Leah tries to convince Caiaphas to use Saul as a scapegoat. Leah wants Saul dead. Caiaphas isn’t certain. Caiaphas believes in the power of the Temple to make Saul return. Caiaphas will speak with Saul before pursuing any other action. Caiaphas thinks they have for too long used force to try to keep people in line. He thinks other measures may be more effective. Caiaphas recites the "love your neighbor" passage from Leviticus. Leah is annoyed. Rome has been using force and taking lives to maintain order. Jews have been among the casualties. She tells him to send Rome the scroll of Leviticus and see how well that goes. 

Peter discusses Saul with Barnabas. Peter still isn’t convinced. He thinks Saul is arrogant and conceited, and wonders why Jesus chose him. Peter wonders why Jesus chose Saul, and why Saul seems to be acting as a leader.

Cornelius discusses the statue with Pilate and Claudia. Cornelius offers dire estimates of casualties on all sides if the statue goes up. Cornelius and Pilate believes the Jews must be made to accept the statue. Claudia thinks the arrival of the statue should altogether be prevented. 

Peter comes to the other apostles with Saul, that they should accept him. Simon the Zealot leaves. Saul runs after him to try to convince him of his good will. Temple guards roam the streets looking for Saul. They find Saul and take him in. Barnabas observes.

End of Segment Five.

Saul is led into a dungeon cell. 

Simon enters a building where other conspirators and revolutionaries are known to frequent. He has information.

Claudia offers prayers to various deities for peace and security. Cornelius comes upon Claudia. She asks how he prepares to handle crisis and destruction. Claudia accuses men of easily destroying things. 

Simon is given a drugged drink. He is taken upstairs. He meets with Eva.. If he is willing to do what needs to be done, they will protect him. Levi enters to further discuss matters with Simon.

Saul is in a cell, reciting the Lord’s Prayer. Caiaphas, disguised, watches.

End Episode Nine.

A.D. The Bible Continues (TV / NBC) – “The Visit” (7/12)

Observations

I’m not quite sure what story this series is trying to tell. Is it the story of the first generation of the followers of the resurrected Jesus? Or is it the story of the political intrigues in Jerusalem and Judea in the middle part of the first century A.D.?

For this episode, the producers and writers appear to have magically (pun intended – see next paragraph) invented an event that (at least in my searches) cannot be located in history – a visit by Roman Emperor Tiberius to Jerusalem at the time of Pontius Pilate. As the title of the episode indicates, this fictional event is the main plot. Although the title of the series would cause a person to expect the biblical sources to be predominate, it is rather the invented plots about the political intrigue that are primary to this series.

The part of the Bible this episode sort-of covers is Acts 8:4-13, the story of Philip and Simon the Magician in Samaria. Very little program time is actually found narrating the story. It feels almost as if the producers keep these stories in the program to pay token lip-service to the idea that they are (still) telling the story of the Bible. In the overall “A” plot of this episode, I found this story of Philip and Simon to be more of a distraction and really don’t see how it contributed in any way to the plot. The “Christian” characters come off as flat and undeveloped.

One of the issues I find with the depiction of Saul in the series vs. what is found in the Bible is that in this series, Saul is very aware of Peter and in fact, Saul’s main objective is to destroy Peter. In the biblical text, there is nothing to indicate that Saul was so obsessed with the apostles. In fact the very text covered by this episode could be read in a way that shows the apostles being kept above the general harassment that the other Christians were experiencing.

Claudia (Pilate’s wife) is the voice of reason. She is present at key hearings and discourses, and she is the one who Tiberius confides in.

We are given an introduction to Caligula, the future emperor. He is shown as a narcissistic, unbalanced person, and he is brother to Herodias, wife of Antipas.

It’s becoming increasingly plain that this series is not about the Bible. I wish the producers would just rid themselves of pretending that it is. At least then I wouldn’t be shackled with the idea that it needs to retain some faithfulness to the biblical source and history. It would be easier to enter the world of its invented history and plot.

Its need to retain a tie to the Bible drags it down. I rate this episode 4 out of 10.

Synopsis

Jerusalem. Saul goes house to house trying to eradicate Christians. Apostles are gathered in a room, holding Communion. Philip believes he is being called by the Spirit to go to Samaria. The others aren’t so sure. Saul enters the building where they are hiding. He searches, but do not locate them. Mary Magdalene sneaks past Saul’s carnage and returns to the apostles. Philip leaves for Samaria.

As Philip leaves Jerusalem, he observes a Roman legion approaching Jerusalem. Pilate informs Caiaphas that the Emperor is coming. He warns Caiaphas that all must appear in order during the Emperor’s visit. Pilate demands rounding up of Christians to cease and for funds to help pay for the visit. Caiaphas can do something about the former. The latter will have to come from a private source.. Leah is annoyed that Caiaphas agrees to Pilate’s terms to support an emperor that has driven out Jews from Rome.

 

Philip approaches a small band of people appearing to be in trouble. They turn out to be bandits who beat him and strip away a medallion around his neck. The leave.

 

End segment one.

 

Caiaphas calls Annas in. In return for reconciliation, Caiaphas demands Annas pay 60,000 to him which will be used to support the Roman demands.

 

Mary Magdalene suggests she go to work for the Romans during the emperor’s visit. She will be able to secure food by working in the kitchen.

 

Philip is rescued by a man named Yitzhak. Together they reach Samaria where they encounter Simon the magician who performs dramatic acts. Yitzhak happens to be Simon’s assistant.

 

Saul is torturing Christians in their holding cells. A temple guard arrives and orders Saul to stop, under orders of Caiaphas. Saul protests that he is doing God’s work. The guard tells him that he cannot do this in Jerusalem, at least while the emperor is there.

 

Back to Simon. Simon calls Philip up to stage. Simon knows that Philip lost something valuable, a pendant. Simon produces the pendant and Philip finds it around his neck. Philip is not convinced. He accuses Simon of trickery, not God’s work.

 

Saul comes looking for Peter in Galilee. His daughter, Maya,  is there. She tells him that Peter is not there. Saul warns her that he will find Peter, no matter where he goes.

 

End segment two.

 

The emperor arrives in Jerusalem. Cornelius is in charge of crowd control duty. Tiberius is emperor. Caligula, his nephew accompanies.

 

Maya comes to Jerusalem to warn Peter.

 

Tiberius is not here for goodwill. Claudia warns Pilate that Tiberius has come to remove him, and that they must cultivate good relationships with Tiberius’ successor, no matter how distasteful.

 

Simon attempts to cure a boy’s mother. Simon is unable. Philip calls out that he can help. Simon allows Philip to try. The crowd looks on. [Dramatic sky scene as clouds move and light shines down.] Philip prays for healing in Jesus’ name. [More dramatic sky scene.] The mother is healed. The crowd cheer. Simon and Yitzhak look upon Peter with contempt.

 

End segment three.

 

Pilate’s court. Mary Magdalene is serving the guests. Caligula grabs her and tells her that she is good enough to satisfy a future emperor.

 

Tiberius discusses how to control Judea and the Jews. He believes force and a strong hand are the only means. Claudia interjects that tact and diplomacy are what works better, and that Pilate has such qualities. Cornelius recognizes Mary as someone he has seen before.

 

Philip baptizes new believers in Samaria. Simon, too, is baptized. Yitzhak looks on with a look of annoyance.

 

Tiberius speaks with Claudia.

 

The apostles confront Saul in the nighttime streets of Jerusalem. Peter challenges Saul with words. Peter lets Saul go. The others question Peter’s actions. Peter states that they are not men of violence.

 

End segment four.

 

Simon is still in the waters. Yitzhak comes to see him. Simon exits the water, asks for Yitzhak’s knife and uses it to  makes a cut in the hand of Yitzhak,  who is taken aback in pain by the action. Simon assures Yitzhak that it will be all right, because he has been baptized. Simon tries to heal the wound but is unsuccessful and wonders why he doesn’t have the same powers as Philip.

 

Antipas, Herodias (Caligula’s sister), Pilate, Tiberius, Caligula – they are all in one place. Cornelius sees Mary again. He questions why she is there. She just needed a job. He asks her why she shouldn’t be arrested then and there. She responds with how she was taught to love her enemies. Cornelius lets her go with a warning to not approach Pilate again.

 

In the inner chamber Pilate attempts to defend his actions. Pilate calls in Caiaphas. Caiaphas relates how much his relationship with Pilate has benefited the governance of Judea. Tiberius dismisses Caiaphas and Pilate. Pilate’s future is in Tiberius’ hands.

 

End segment five.

 

Saul resumes rounding up Christians in search of Peter.

 

Leah is angry that Caiaphas has pleaded Pilate’s cause. She is angry that he didn’t support the one who will win the power struggle. A temple guard comes to Caiaphas informing him that Saul has resumed rounding up Christians. Saul’s band and his prisoners  encounter Caligula. Caligula asks what is happening and upon finding out that Saul is rounding up heretics, Caligula is amused and begins to chase after the prisoners. One of them attacks Caligula, not knowing who he is. Caligula is not amused and strangles him to death.

 

Tiberius and Claudia speak again. Tiberius relates a dream he had. Claudia speaks of dreams she has had.

 

Pilate is afraid. Claudia tries to reassure him that things will work out.

 

Saul enters the temple courtyard. He is summoned by a guard to follow him to the cells. One of the prisoners tells him that Peter has left Jerusalem for Damascus. Saul leaves. A pouch of coins is thrown by the guard to the prisoner along with an order to let the man go. Caiaphas reveals himself from the shadows. It was all a ruse to get Saul out of Jerusalem.

 

End episode seven.

A.D. The Bible Continues (TV / NBC) – “The Persecution” (6/12)

Observations

If you were the producer of this series, how would you take the following three verses (Acts 8:1-3) and expand it into a full episode?

Acts 8:1 Saul was in full agreement with Stephen’s murder.

At that time, the church in Jerusalem began to be subjected to vicious harassment. Everyone except the apostles was scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria. ² Some pious men buried Stephen and deeply grieved over him. ³ Saul began to wreak havoc against the church. Entering one house after another, he would drag off both men and women and throw them into prison. (CEB)

A bit difficult? I’d think so. But the producers of this series had no difficulty because they’ve set up plenty of political conflicts and intrigues that to advance these side plots (having nothing to do with the text of Acts) can take up a lot of time.

The episode ends with Saul receiving the letter from the high priest authorizing him to do whatever is necessary. This, I assume, is a reference to Acts 9:1-2. In the text of Acts, this letter is actually to the synagogues in Damascus. Saul had already been persecuting in the region of Judea without any need for a letter. In the program, he engages in full-blown persecution in Jerusalem and against the “camp” only after he receives the letter.

Looking at the preview for next week, it looks like the series will be returning to the remainder of Acts chapter 8 and the stories involving Philip.

The women are nearly invisible in this episode. Mary Magdalene makes a brief appearance to tell Peter to start leading. Leah is present but she has no significant words to say or actions to take. At best she seems to be relegated to a messenger status in this episode. Claudia appears only briefly and her words seem to make little difference in the actions of those around her.

The central element driving this episode is an attempted coup against Caiaphas, led by his own father-in-law. There is certainly historical basis for Annas acting as kingmaker (or high-priest maker, in this instance). The problem is that everything else in this episode acts as supporting cast to this primary plotline.

The B-plot is Saul. Saul made a brief appearance in the previous episode at the stoning of Stephen. In the current episode viewers are given much more of what he is like and what motivates him. About the only thing taken from the Bible in this episode is about Saul. But even here a huge amount of material is fabricated. Could they have happened? Perhaps. But in my opinion, unlikely. This plotline, too, exists to support the Caiaphas plotline.

Halfway through the series, what started out as potentially promising, at least to my mind has entered the gutter. The way in which it treats the text of the Bible and fills it in with imagined narratives harkens back to the original The Bible series; i.e., pretty much bad to terrible in its execution of the material. As with the original series, this series increasingly is focusing on creating drama and tension unnecessarily, and by doing so ignores what is implied by the title of the series: that it is something about what is in the Bible.

I give this episode 3 out of 10.

Synopsis

Upper Room, a few apostles with Stephen’s body, preparing it for burial. Procession through Jerusalem. Stephen’s mother accuses Peter’s politics of causing her son’s death. “Where is this Messiah now?” she asks. Other apostles wonder why Peter doesn’t ask God for Stephen to be raised back to life. Stephen is buried.

 

Saul of Tarsus comes to the Christian “camp. He warns them to stop blaspheming by their preaching of Jesus. The apostles ask Saul to explain to them what is so wrong with their proclamation. Saul claims Jesus is a false prophet. He claims the Sanhedrin has declared it and is supported by the Old Testament prophets.

 

End segment 1

 

Jerusalem. Annas walking, speaking with his son Jonathan (Leah’s brother). Annas is not happy with how Caiaphas has been handling the politics with Rome and wants Jonathan to challenge him.

 

Leah and Caiaphas discussing a dinner party for Purim in which all her relatives will be present. Herod Antipas and Herodias have invited themselves to the dinner. Herod and Herodias approach Jerusalem on horseback and see the Christian camp. They wonder why anyone would leave all they knew and had to live apart in a camp.

 

Dinner. Discussion of recent events. Annas introduces the subject. Jonathan interjects. Caiaphas defends his actions. Herod is concerned. Discontent and anger is continuing to grow. Herod mentions the Christian camp. They wonder when it will stop. Caiaphas is annoyed. He asks what they want done. Caiaphas wonders aloud if they want him to slaughter the Christians in their tents. There is no objection. Annas suggests that what the Jews need is a strong high priest who will lead. Jonathan adds that the high priest should be in command and not led by the whims of the Roman governor. The tide is turning against Caiaphas. Herod doesn’t care for either Caiaphas or Jonathan, but he will have to back one of them.

 

Back at the Christian camp. Saul tries to convince the Christians to turn away from Jesus by giving examples of false prophets who led the people to ruin. Peter arrives and confronts Saul. Peter claims that the only way to the Father is through Jesus (John 14). Saul’s language confounds the crowd. Peter asks Saul to explain himself in simple terms. The simple explanation is this: that anyone who oppose the Temple will be destroyed by it.

 

Annas, Jonathan, and Joseph discuss a change in the high priest. Joseph isn’t sure he could get the Sanhedrin behind the family of Annas after what Caiaphas (Annas’ son-in-law) has done. After much persuasion Joseph appears reluctantly convinced.

 

Saul argues from Deuteronomy that a Messiah couldn’t be crucified and cursed. Peter counters that Jesus was resurrected. Saul doesn’t believe Jesus could have been resurrected. Saul argues that Jerusalem rejected Jesus. Peter counters this was in fulfillment of Isaiah. One of the Christians gets angry to the point where he threatens Saul. Saul backs off noting that reason isn’t going to persuade the Christians. He promises that he will be back.

 

End of segment 2

 

Saul and Gamaliel at the Temple. Saul asks why the Christians want to destroy the Temple and Jerusalem. Gamaliel tells Saul to stop concerning himself with the Christians but to seek to understand better the scriptures. Saul doesn’t understand why the Christians would want to replace the old ways with a new way. He has to stop them.

 

Jonathan and Annas are seen leaving an audience with Herod. Caiaphas sees. He enters to have an audience with Herod. Herod wants to know what Caiaphas is going to do with the Christians. Caiaphas thinks the Christians will soon tire and go away. Herod suggests that the Christian movement will turn into a revolt, and then a Roman response. Herod wants Caiaphas to do something, and as long as he deals with the Christians, Herod’s support is with Caiaphas if the news of the attempt to overthrow him reaches Pilate.

 

Leah speaks with Joseph in passing. She tells him that she knows he is part of a conspiracy to remove Caiaphas, but that they won’t succeed. She threatens Joseph. He tells her that the tide is turning and if she doesn’t see it, she will drown in it.

 

Saul attempts to seek an audience with Caiaphas. He is rebuffed, but encounters Leah. Leah takes Saul to see Caiaphas. Saul wants authority to act on Caiaphas’ behalf to remove the Christians permanently from existence and memory. The Christians offend Saul. They are against everything that Judaism stands for: the Temple, the institutions, the order and way of life. The Christians, who themselves are supposed to be Jews,  are against what it means to be Jewish.

 

End of segment 3

 

Back at the Christian camp. Peter is building a brick structure. Speaks with Mary Magdalene. She tells him to stop bottling up his emotions and grief about Stephen. Be like the women who openly grieve.

 

Saul wants authority and some guards to do what it takes to destroy the Christians’ popularity. He believes this is their strength. Caiaphas tells Saul to recruit his own men and Caiaphas will pay for it.

 

Peter talks to the people about the stone on which Christ’s church will be built. Jesus is the foundation. The people are the church. He exhorts the people to set aside fear of persecution and return to Jerusalem to preach. They go to Jerusalem and preach that the true message of truth must be reclaimed from the priestly families and their Roman masters.

 

Saul marches on. Under the authority of the high priest, he confronts the apostles. He doesn’t take them, but arrests all who are listening for participating in blasphemy. Saul’s intent is to instill fear into people for associating with the apostles. Saul speaks with Gamaliel. Saul reports his actions and states that the problem has been solved by isolating the apostles and turning the supporters against them. Gamaliel observes that Saul has created a new problem. They look and see crowds heading out of Jerusalem to listen to the apostles. Peter seems pleased, but John and Mary are concerned. They think the hammer of the Temple will come down hard and soon.

 

Annas comes to Caiaphas and informs him that his attempt to solve the Christian problem has failed. Annas asks Caiaphas to step down. Caiaphas will not. He relates all the problems Annas created during his tenure as high priest. Caiaphas will have Pilate make the determination as to who should be high priest.

 

End segment 4.

 

At Pilate’s court, Caiaphas, Jonathan, and Annas wait for his decision. Pilate walks with Claudia. Claudia suggests backing Caiaphas. Pilate wonders if her reason is her “friendship” with Leah.

 

Pilate enters and takes out a small statuette from a box. It is Minerva, goddess of wisdom. He offers a prayer to Minerva asking for wisdom. But receives no response. Pilate confronts Caiaphas with a number of rumors about improprieties and possible treachery. Caiaphas denies all of it. Pilate will not waste time trying to figure out truth from fiction. He will have Tiberius – a coin – make the decision. The coin is flipped. Jonathan is condemned for his treachery. Pilate’s expectation of the office of the high priest – to follow orders and maintain order – not to be liked. Pilate flips another coin – heads mean Caiaphas stays as high priest. Pilate lets the coin fall to the floor and asks Caiaphas to get it. Caiaphas picks it up and says, “Head.” He stays. The other two are dismissed. Caiaphas observes the coin: it is heads on both sides.

 

Leah comes to Joseph. He is ordered removed from the Sanhedrin and ordered to leave Jerusalem, or face charges of treason. He observes that all this began with her scheming against Jesus, and that this will eventually come back to bite her.

 

Saul comes to Caiaphas. Reasoning has failed. Trying to turn supporters against the apostles has failed. Caiaphas seals a letter with wax. It authorizes Saul with the full backing of the high priest to rid the world of the followers of Jesus. “Do whatever is necessary… Whatever is necessary.”

 

End segment 5

 

Saul speaks to a group of men. He tells them that the Christians are trying to bring down the Temple. They disregard the Sanhedrin’s proclamations against them. The group has had enough. Saul unveils a cache of weapons. He whips them into a frenzy. They will make the Christians leave or be killed. The mob enters buildings and homes where Christians are known to reside. They are beaten and taken away. As this is going on, Cornelius appears and observes.

 

Saul and mob exit Jerusalem and approach the camp. Peter orders everyone to take what they can and flee. A few key apostles will remain and return to Jerusalem. Saul orders everything destroyed. Peter is still in camp as the flames go up all around him. Peter leads Saul toward the edge of camp where flammable oils have been poured. Peter crosses over and then lights a wall of flames blocking Saul’s pursuit.

 

End episode 6

A.D. The Bible Continues (TV / NBC) - "The Wrath" (4/12)

Observations

It was an interesting episode, but one that I found somewhat wanting in conveying the narratives as they are found in the text of the New Testament. I think it is overplaying the political conflict between Caiaphas and Pilate. I give this episode about a 5 out of 10.

This episode covers some of the stories found in the span of Acts 4:4-5:11. Most of the key elements from these set of texts are found in the program, although as has been the case, the setting and the ordering may be altered, sometimes considerably. This episode introduces Stephen (who does not yet appear in the text) and Barnabas (who does).

Pilate becomes increasingly unstable and relentless. He believes he is the hand of Rome. He has also conflated his personal quest for vengeance with Rome’s will. There is nothing that will stop him and no one can talk him out of pursuing all means in order to capture and execute his attempted assassin and the killer of one of his soldiers. Even when Caiaphas tries to explain that his actions are actually causing political destabilization, Pilate no longer listens. Pilate is shown to be literally going down the road to madness.

Caiaphas, too, has gone mad with his single-minded desire to be rid of anything having to do with Jesus. The only thing that brings him back from the edge of disaster is when Joseph of Arimathea, after finding his nephew as one of the ones crucified due to Pilate’s vengeance, comes and demands that Caiaphas put an end to this madness.

Boaz, the Zealot, is driven by hatred and anger toward the Romans. The more the Romans act against the Jews, the more determined Boaz is to harm and destroy them.

We have seen quite a bit of Cornelius throughout the series thus far, but he has been mostly depicted as a loyal soldier to Pilate. I am assuming that this Cornelius will be the one Peter eventually is told to go see – the first Gentile convert to Christianity. I think we got a first glimpse of his character in this episode. He sees himself as desiring to be merciful. He seems to carry out at least some of the orders given him somewhat reluctantly. It will be interesting to see this character change and how that affects his relationship to Rome.

Motifs

The episode is appropriately given the title “The Wrath.” Pilate’s wrath is most evident, but as the episode progresses, the viewer sees that in many ways “wrath” propels the actions of some of the key players. In none of the cases are the results of wrath good. Anger and hatred cause a madness that causes people to become blind to the effects their actions have and they become deaf to reason.

Nonviolence is shown as the counter to the effects of wrath. Joseph shows this in his prayer offered as he surveys the innocent youths that have been crucified. Peter shows this in his confrontation of Boaz.

Faith is the antidote to fear. Peter and John face the real possibility of death, yet they do not fear. And when released, instead of retreating into silence, they with all the disciples are more determined to speak about Jesus. Claudia has not expressed an explicit belief in Jesus, but I see faith in her, and it is this quality that allows her to stand up to the madness of her husband, Pilate, and go behind his back to try do something to restore order and peace.

The women recede mostly to the background in this episode. The only exception is Claudia who continues to be Pilate’s (unwanted) voice of conscience and reason.

Quibbles

The number of believers, down from five-thousand to a few dozen at most. Given the budget for the series, I can understand why the producers chose to drastically reduce the numbers of people that are given in Acts.

Hemorrhaging from all body orifices? Really? Did you really have to overdramatize Ananias and Sapphira’s deaths like that? The text of Acts just says they dropped dead. It was just as likely to have been a heart attack, aneurysm, or a fatal stroke. (At least the pronunciation of Sapphira was true to the Greek – a short “i”.)

Minor quibble – a rather large amount of time seems to pass between Ananias and Sapphira donating the proceeds and Peter discovering their deceit.

I think this episode brings in far too much dramatization that is not even tangentially found in Acts. Some fictionalized and imagined historical context is fine, but when it feels like that forms a rather large part of the episode, maybe the series title should be something other than “The Bible Continues.”

The explanation for why God was displeased with Ananias and Sapphira is rather interesting. The Peter of this show explains that it was because their holding back of some of their proceeds from the sale was a lack of faith, a betting against the success of Jesus’ mission and against God. This is certainly an invention not found in the text of Acts, which gives the reason quite plainly, “they lied to God.”

In the series, both the Jewish and Roman authorities are out to get followers of Jesus. And so in the program, the land belonging to Barnabas isn’t sold but is donated to the apostles who then turn it into the first Christian campsite. This too is contrary to the text of Acts that strongly imply the apostles and the Christians remained in Jerusalem and did in fact, worship at the Temple regularly. But then the supposed conflict between the parties would have to go away, and the dramatic tension would be eliminated. We certainly cannot have that if we are to keep an audience…

Synopsis

Prison scene. Cornelius visits cell where a man is being tortured to give up the name of Pilate's attempted assassin. Caiaphas comes to see Pilate. Pilate tells him that ten Jews will be crucified every day until the assassin is found. Caiaphas wants to continue his pursuit of the disciples and bring Peter and John to trial. Other priests believe the assassin needs to take priority. Caiaphas believes that the priesthood must appear strong by not caving in to Roman demands.

Baptisms into the Christian community taking place outside of Jerusalem. Stephen is baptized. Maya, Mary Magdalene, and Stephen return to Jerusalem to seek information about Peter and John.

 

Joseph of Arimathea goes out to where the Jews have been crucified. He prays a prayer of nonviolence, to not act with violence upon violence, to have empathy for all who suffer and are in pain.

 

The man's (initial scene's) daughter is brought by Cornelius to see him. Cornelius demands the man's name. Scene cuts away to Peter and John. There are screams of agony from the man's cell. Peter and John are sure they will die this very day.

 

The man in the cell appears to have died, but Cornelius has found the information he needs. He takes a squad of soldiers to raid the building where the assassin is thought to be. Boaz has fled, but the weapons have been left behind. Cornelius reports to Pilate that the assassin is known but has fled. Claudia suggests that Pilate ought to let Caiaphas find Boaz, but Pilate refuses to lower himself to accept Jewish assistance. "Rome does not beg favor of its subjects."

 

Leah comes to see the cripple who was healed. She asks how much he was paid to pretend to be a cripple. Leah says that she believes Peter will destroy the temple. She hands money to the former cripple, asking him to prevent this from happening. Peter and John are led to the temple courtyard where they will face the Sanhedrin. Caiaphas questions Peter. (Dramatic guests of wind occur whenever Peter and John feel the Holy Spirit move within them.) Peter claims the cripple was healed by God in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. He accuses the leader of crucifixion but that Jesus was resurrected. Caiaphas accuses Peter and John of deceit. The former cripple is brought in. He glances back at Leah. Beggar, Melek, is questioned. A quick cut to Joseph who appears troubled, then back to Caiaphas. Caiaphas accuses Melek of pretending to be lame since childhood because it was an easy way to get handouts from strangers. Melek refutes Caiaphas' accusation. He praises God and Jesus for his healing. Melek is rushed out. Caiaphas orders Peter and John released, but commands them to never speak or teach in the name of Jesus. Peter asks whether it is right to obey Caiaphas or God. In great commotion Peter and John leave the Temple and return to the rest of the disciples. They find that the number of believers has grown considerably since their arrest. If this is the result of their speaking and arrest, Peter will do this again.

 

Peter gives a speech to the gathered. Because the kingdom of God is coming, they should share their belongings and take only what is needed. The believers give what they have. A couple discuss whether they should or shouldn't give everything. The woman thinks they should; the man thinks they should be prudent. They come to Peter and claim they are giving all they have

 

Out in the streets Peter is approached by a mother whose daughter is sick. She asks for healing. Peter says any healing would be because of God's will. Peter takes the girl, holds her and in the name of Jesus asks for healing. But nothing seems to happen. Peter tries again. This time the girl is healed. Stephen is amazed. He thinks they should go to the Temple and show the priests. Peter rejects Stephen's course of action. Peter says to Stephen that the time will come when the priests will hear of it. But now is not the time.

 

Cornelius and a squad of soldiers lead Jewish youths and come upon Stephen. Stephen demands to know what they have done. Cornelius orders Stephen to move. Stephen refuses. Cornelius beats and kicks Stephen, but does not kill him. When Stephen asks why, Cornelius answers, "Because I am merciful."

 

Mary, the mother, converses with Peter. She reassures Peter that Jesus chose him because he knew Peter would remain faithful and could take on the responsibilities needed by a new movement.

 

Cornelius leads the youths to their deaths by crucifixion. Scene cuts to Pilate and Claudia, where Pilate is handling ashes of the murdered Roman soldier, Marcus. He builds a small mound of ashes on his table. He tells Claudia that he is building a mountain out of the ashes of Jews.

 

Boaz is found by one of his associates and told to disappear.

 

The disciples are sleeping. John has a dream. In the morning he goes to look for what he saw in the dream. It is at the Temple - a crack pattern in the stone ground. He is approached by a man whom he does not seem to know. The man seems to know about John. He has attempted to fulfill himself through wealth, but his soul remains poor. John asks the man to come with him. The crack on the ground is gone. John believes the man was what the dream wanted him to find.

 

Crosses continue to rise. Joseph looks at them. Claudia accuses Pilate of changing for the worse. "I am an instrument of Roman power. My actions are an expression and reminder of that power. And that power sustains Rome. It is paramount." Pilate demands that Claudia never involve herself in affairs of which she does not understand.

 

Peter, John, and the man John met (Barnabas) walk in the wilderness. Barnabas offers a piece of land to the disciples.

 

Joseph comes into Caiaphas' chamber and in agonized voice tells them that his nephew is one of the crucifieds. Annas offers consolation. Joseph refuses platitudes and demands that this be brought to an end now. He reminds Caiaphas that the close association with Pilate that he has cultivated all his life needs to be cashed in now.

 

Boaz appears to leave.

 

Christians set up camp on Barnabas' donated land.

 

Caiaphas tears his cloak and pours ashes on his head.

 

Boaz shows up in the Christian camp. Peter wants to know why Boaz is here. Peter tells Boaz that if he repents and accepts Jesus, he is welcome to stay. Boaz states that he believes in God. But Boaz does not recognize Jesus. He knows David, Solomon, Joshua, etc. but not Jesus. Boaz believes that God, the Rock, has trained his hands for war. Peter turns away. Peter notes that there are people taking advantage of them. But he won't name them. He doesn't believe it is the way.

 

Peter has a vision and sees that Ananias has kept a portion of the sale for himself. Ananias denies the accusation. He starts hemorrhaging all over his body and dies. The people look on in fear. Sapphira is brought to Peter's tent. Peter pleads for her to speak truthfully. He asks if they gave all, and she says they did. Peter informs her that he saw in a vision that they kept back a small amount. She asks why that matters. What they gave was a huge amount. Peter tells her that it was because they bet against the mission of Jesus succeeding and bet against God. She hemorrhages like Ananias.

 

Caiaphas comes to Pilate to beg for mercy. Pilate laughs at Caiaphas' appearance of ashes and sackcloth. Caiaphas accuses Pilate of provoking insurrection upon himself by his poor judgment. Pilate takes some of Marcus' ashes and forces it into Caiaphas' mouth. Pilate will not back down and there will be no mercy. Claudia looks upon Pilate with anger and exasperation. Claudia catches Leah in the darkness and tells her the name of the assassin is Boaz. Leah will know what to do.

A.D. The Bible Continues (TV / NBC) - "The Spirit Arrives" (3/12)

Observations

What would it look like if Acts 1:12-4:4 were compressed into a single hour-long (with commercials) TV episode that covered just a few days? It might look this episode three, which was broadcast tonight.

This episode was much more about political intrigues and machinations going on outside the biblical text. The portrayal of Pilate may be fictional and imagined, but what is shown in this episode does seem to align with what is known historically about his tendency to ignore Jewish sensibilities; a short temper; and to take unilateral, violent actions against the Jews. Less seems to be known about Caiaphas and Herod Antipas, and their portrays are likely more fictional and imagined than Pilate’s.

My evaluation of episode three is that is falls somewhere in the “decent” range. There was one major omission (IMO) noted below, and a few other issues also noted below. I think it portrayed well the tensions that could very well have existed between the various groups: the Romans, the priests, the rest of the Jews, the Zealots, and the disciples. In many ways, all the groups except the disciples, are quite the same. All except the disciples are interested in self-preservation and will use whatever means is necessary to try to achieve it. Only the disciples are shown as acting against self-preservation. They must fight this urge, but in the end their commitment to Jesus overcomes their fears. They would be safer to retreat to Galilee and return to their old occupations. But they choose to remain in Jerusalem and await the promise of the Holy Spirit and to whatever and wherever that leads.

Motifs

Women continue to play an important part in the narrative. Where episode two seemed to push them into the background, episode brings them back into the foreground. A new female character, Maya, Peter’s daughter, is introduced. She, like all the other female characters in this program, is feisty and strong and has a mind that she is willing to use and speak.

Politics and religion continue to drive the drama. The Romans and the Jewish leaders are fully entangled in this web. There is pressure among the disciples to escape entanglement through escape into anonymity and noninvolvement in the way that Jesus has commanded. The disciples are seen as victims of these external, powerful forces that are beyond their control. The developing story is to see how they navigate the delicate balance between engaging in the world without becoming entangled in its powers.

Another developing motif is that no individual, however much power and authority they wield, is fully in control. In fact the more power they wield, it seems that in the end they have less control.

Quibbles

The title of this series is A.D. The Bible Continues. However, this episode, in comparison with the first two, seems to contain less biblical material and takes more liberties with the material it uses.

Where are Jesus’ brothers that are written to have been present with the disciples in the Upper Room? Acts reports there were at least one-hundred twenty by the time of Pentecost, but throughout the episode, it is the disciples, Mary the mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene, and the new (fictional and imagined) arrival, Maya.

Judas is forgotten. There is nothing about his replacement taking place.

There is very little made of the “speaking in tongues” after the Holy Spirit arrives. The viewer might see it as the recitation of the Lord’s Prayer changes into what might be speaking in tongues. But by the time the disciples go out of their room into the crowd, they are no longer speaking in tongues. The whole mystical, miraculous, and unexplainable event of the disciples speaking to the multinational crowds in Jerusalem is omitted. I see this as the worst omission of this episode. The key theme of Christianity as a gospel for all the nations is sadly omitted. For now, in this program, the gospel is still one that is confined to the Jews. The outpouring of the Spirit is primarily to give the disciples courage to leave their room. Given the title of this episode, “The Spirit Arrives,” I would have expected much more surrounding the event, and closer adherence to the text of Acts.

Peter’s first sermon, recorded in Acts 2 is not found in the program.

What does happen is that the first action of the disciples is to go to the Temple and encounter the cripple at the Beautiful Gate. This is the episodic selection that the program uses. It combines a miracle/healing event with Peter’s preaching to the crowds, with the religious authorities confronting them and taking them into custody. A lot of time and story compression occurs, but I suppose that the episode the producers chose does encapsulate the highlights.

No one speaks out against the violence that is happening, as was the case in the first two episodes. However, it could be said that the acts of violence being initiated by Pilate and Boaz might themselves be arguments against any redemptive nature of violence. Boaz himself speaks of his actions as “the way of the world. Blood will have blood."

Synopsis

Starts in Galilee. Peter looking at his daughter, wondering how he is to tell them he must return to Jerusalem. Peter and John return to Jerusalem. His daughter sees them leave.

Back to Jerusalem. Caiaphas speaks with a widow of one of the temple guards who had been killed. Leah enters. Caiaphas thinks the widow suspects something. Six of the priests have been murdered by Pilate. Leah is matter-of-fact about the murder. It had to be done to erase witnesses of the resurrection. "It is a necessary sacrifice."

 

Streets of Jerusalem. Roman squad drinking at an establishment. Boaz is one of the staff. Romans are a bit drunk. Proprietor encourages them to take leave. One bumps into Boaz. A tense standoff. Roman starts to draw sword. Proprietor comes to calm him down and stands between them. As the Romans leave, Boaz draws out a knife. Proprietor tells Boaz that it is not yet time.

 

To the Praetorium. Servant cleaning up blood from earlier executions of guards. Claudia comes in and asks Pilate what has happened. "Just politics." Claudia demands to know what happened. She knows what has happened. Pilate changes subject: Herod and his wife are arriving for a visit.

 

Jerusalem. Herod arrives. Boaz looking on. Herod thinks he sees more Roman soldiers in the streets since Jesus' crucifixion. The procession stops. He demands that the king must be allowed through. The Romans refuse. Herod and entourage are diverted away from the main path.

 

Herod arrives at Caiaphas' residence. Herod asks what is going on in the city. Herod accuses Caiaphas of mishandling Jesus, of breaking Jewish law, and collaborating with the Romans. Herod is afraid of what might happen at Pentecost with all the pilgrims arriving for the festival.

 

Upper Room. Peter and John arrive and join other disciples already there. They discuss how Jesus intends to build the church. Mary, mother, states there are two ingredients, belief and patience, both which are lacking among them. Knock at the door. Mary Magdalene and Maya, Peter's daughter are there.

 

Caiaphas and Herod walk through the temple area. Herod demands a peaceful Pentecost. His positions is secure, but Caiaphas' is dependent on his support and that of the Sanhedrin.

 

Herod reaches temple gates where there is a cripple beggar. Herod orders Caiaphas to give the beggar some money.

 

Leah visits the aforementioned temple guard widow and hands her some coins. She would like to come to some kind of agreement outside of official temple protocol, in which annual income will be provided. But the widow is skeptical. She knows her husband was respected and his last post was guarding Jesus' tomb. She wants to know what is going on. The widow must leave Jerusalem immediately to avoid the same fate as her husband. Leah will take care of all their needs.

 

Praetorium. Pilate, Herod, their wives. Discuss the festival of Pentecost. Herod observes that excessive Roman presence around the Temple do not contribute to the feeling of Roman tolerance. It re-emphasizes the perspective that they are an occupied nation. Herod requests that the Romans be taken away from the Temple area so that the Jews could celebrate the festival in peace. Pilate reminds Herod that Jerusalem is not Herod's city. As a response, Pilate will double the guards and he will attend Pentecost himself. Herod asks Claudia to intervene. Claudia replies that she supports her husband in all he does.

 

Back to upper room. Peter and Maya. Discussion of what they expect to happen. Peter fears for his daughter's safety. She wonders what could be so dangerous about following a rabbi.

 

Pilate discuss his visit to the festival. Claudia questions his wisdom.

 

Upper Room. They are all inside, waiting. Some wonder whey they will go out. They question why they are shut away. They are waiting for the Holy Spirit. Maya questions all their waiting and not going out to tell people about Jesus' resurrection. Peter is annoyed with Maya's questions. Maya rebuffs him saying he's the one who taught her to question things.

 

Boaz receives a report that Pilate will visit the temple on Pentecost. The messenger thinks this is the abomination of the sacred space that the prophets had spoken of. Boaz believes the time has come to kill Pilate. Looks at knife.

 

Claudia enters Pilate's bedchamber. Claudia encounters Herod. He tells her this was the palace of his father before they took it. Claudia encounters Cornelius. They cannot sleep because of worries about Pilate's safety.

 

Upper room. Maya asks whether the disciples will face the same fate as Jesus if they are found.

 

Herod informs Caiaphas that Pilate will be coming to the Temple. They are all concerned. Boaz prepares for a showdown.

 

Peter on rooftop. Maya comes up to see him. Peter is afraid. Not of the Romans or priests, but that he is the wrong person for the task Jesus wants him to do. Maya asks what Jesus would do if he were still here. Peter answers, "He'd pray." They head down and wake all the disciples. They are going to pray.

 

Pentecost morning. Pilgrims entering the temple. Roman procession enter.  Rear guards prevent further entry of pilgrims. Upper Room: the disciples pray. Boaz preparing his weapons and approach the temple.

 

Camera shows glow, comet-like object coming down from the heavens. Clouds and storm gather about the upper room. A strong wind is followed by a stream of light and flames that envelop the disciples. The Holy Spirit has arrived. They are now ready to leave to spread the gospel.

 

Pilate and Cornelius arrive at the temple. Temple guard arrives to give Caiaphas's demands for entry to the Temple. Pilate refuses. They enter. Boaz is seen among the crowd.

 

Peter leads the disciples out of the building. They greet the curious crowds about. They head toward the Temple.

 

Caiaphas and Herod come out to greet Pilate. In Aramaic, Caiaphas calls out to the crowd to accept Pilate's visit. Romans spot Boaz and give chase as they also lead Pilate away. Boaz attempts to attack Pilate, but is foiled by Cornelius. Another soldier gives chase and as Boaz is about to be apprehended, using a wrist-based dagger slices the Roman's throat.

 

The disciples approach the Temple gate. The same beggar is there. Peter stops. He tells the beggar they have no money, but taking his hand Peter offers healing in the name of Jesus Christ. The cripple is healed. Peter gives his "sermon" about Jesus, resurrection, and the Holy Spirit. John announces, Jesus is alive.

 

Caiaphas hears and orders the guards to silence the disciples. Peter and John are beaten, then taken into custody.

 

Cornelius comes to Pilate to report that a soldier was found murdered. Some in the area were taken into custody. Pilate orders them to be executed. Cornelius does not believe the murderer is among them. Pilate doesn't care and orders all of them to be executed on the steps of the Temple. Cornelius goes out.

 

Mary Magdalene comes to the holding cells with some supplies. She reports that word is spreading and that many are coming to Christ. Roman soldiers come to take others in custody to be executed. Cornelius looks into Peter's eyes as he leaves. Jews are executed. Caiaphas and Herod come out to see the results. Crowd is antagonized.

 

Boaz shows no regret or remorse for his actions. It is simply "the way of the world. Blood will have blood."

 

Peter and John pray in their cell. Caiaphas comes to see. Peter and John recite the Shema while he looks on.

A.D. The Bible Continues (TV / NBC)–“The Body Is Gone” (2/12)

Observations

My general impression of this episode is that although artistic and dramatic licenses were taken with the narrative and many details, the overall narrative follows well-enough the key incidents and dialogue that is found in John chapters 20 and 21, and the first part of Acts 1.

My expectations had been raised with the first episode, so my impression of episode 2 is that while decent, I didn’t find much that was particularly noteworthy.

There is a lot more action in this episode than there was in the first. Since there were no cars to do car chases, the next best thing is rooftop chases.

Maybe the part that impressed me the most was the portrayal of Thomas. His “doubting” was quite believable. Anyone in his place would likely have responded in a similar manner.

I re-watched the end of episode one and now see that the heavenly warrior dude is an angel. He shows up again in this episode near the end.

Motifs

1. This episode continues to develop the political conflict between the Jewish priesthood and the Romans. By the end of this episode, any cooperation or trust between them is gone.
2. The issue between followers of Jesus and the Romans continues to be developed primarily as a political issue. The followers are seen as destabilizing Roman rule.
3. Pilate is portrayed as utilitarian and ruthless. Whatever works to keep his position and Rome in power, he will do.
4. Non-violence from episode one gets a brief mention, but I think it is a powerful scene. Peter is once more offered the choice between what seems like pragmatism and idealism. Peter is shown a stash of daggers, but he refuses the kind of help that will require killing to accomplish.
5. The coming together of the disciples. As long as Jesus was absent, the disciples were scattered in thinking, beliefs, and action. As reports of Jesus’ return begin to filter in, they begin to come together and work together. By the end they are once more walking together, in unison.
6. It’s all about whether the body of Jesus can be found or not. For the writers and producers, I sense that this is a central pillar of Christianity on whether or not it stands.

Quibbles

A week doesn’t pass between Jesus’ first appearance to the disciples-minus-Thomas and his appearance to Thomas. I can see how the dramatization might want to compress time, but still…

While the first episode presented some strong actions from women (and in the case of Leah, perhaps over-the-top) this episode doesn’t really show much strength and initiative from the women. Even Leah is somewhat subdued. The most problematic is the complete omission of Mary Magdalene as the first witness to the living Jesus and his commissioning of her to tell the news to all the other disciples. I am sorely disappointed in this huge omission.

Would the Romans really have bothered to try to round up the disciples? The gospel accounts and the book of Acts doesn’t mention early friction between the Romans and the disciples – between the Jewish leaders and disciples, yes. That doesn’t mean it couldn’t have happened, but I get the feeling it’s there for the dramatized action. This also leads to Zealots throwing the 1st century equivalent of Molotov Cocktails at the Romans blocking the city gate. That there were no immediate repercussions for this action went beyond suspension of disbelief into the realm of la-la land. This was the most difficult-to-accept part of the episode.

The ascension scene was rather hokey and not much like the description in Acts. I mean, we saw a “comet” with an angel coming down in episode one, so why couldn’t Jesus have lifted away into a cloud? And finally, where were the two beings that explain to the disciples what happened. Maybe these details are going to be found in episode three…

And an unquibble

At first I thought how the temple and the Roman guards at the tomb were depicted as very separate was odd. The temple guards were paid off, and the Roman guards were handled the way they would have been if they abandoned their posts. The text of Matthew 28 reveals that it was “some of the guard” that is involved, and although they are paid off, nothing about their ultimate fates is recorded. So with artistic and dramatic license, what is found in this episode is a plausible interpretation.

Synopsis

Jerusalem, the Third Day. Leah and Caiaphas. Temple guards report disappearance of Jesus' body via an angel who rolled away the stone.

Mary Magdalene arrives at tomb. Startled to see it open and empty. Runs away.

Back to Caiaphas and Leah. Plot an explanation. Gives money to the guards to tell a fabricated version about the body being stolen. Caiaphas and Leah believe the disciples really did stole the body. Afraid that Pilate will discover the truth. Commands temple guards to find Jesus' body so it can be shown he is still dead.

To Pilate and Claudia. Leaving Jerusalem. Claudia is sure Jesus' execution bodes ill omens.

Mary returns to tell the disciples about the empty tomb.

Caiaphas comes to meet Pilate. Pilate asks if Jesus is still dead. Caiaphas assures Pilate this is so. Caiaphas thanks Pilate for his support for supporting their requests about Jesus. Pilate states that when faced with having to stand firm or be fair, he will always stand firm.

Pilate's guards return to speak about what happened at the tomb.

Temple guard hands someone money to find a corpse.

Pilate enters Caiaphas' bathroom while he is taking a bath, and demands an explanation about what really happened to Jesus' body. Pilate is afraid that the Jesus movement will grow beyond control and threaten Roman authority.

Mary, Peter, and John return to the tomb to confirm Mary's report. Peter and John enter. Wonders who would have taken the body. John wonders why whoever took the body would fold the burial cloth. John states it is the third day. John believes. Mary remains at the tomb. She enters to examine the cloth, cradles it, and cries. Jesus appears and asks "why are you crying?" Mary asks the voice if he has taken the body and where it has gone. "Mary." She recognizes the voice, recognizes Jesus.

Back to Jerusalem. Mary runs through an alley. John reports what he has seen. Other disciples are afraid the officials might think they have stolen the body and come after them. John tries to explain the prophecies of Isaiah that applies to Jesus. Roman soldiers approach. Mary arrives and reports she has seen Jesus and has spoken to her. Mary, the mother, is on the rooftop. Mary Magdalene goes up to report to her that Jesus is alive. The disciples wonder if it could be true. Peter's guilt and shame continue to haunt him.

Jesus appears among them. "Peace be with you... Is there any food?" Jesus reminds them how prophecies had to be fulfilled. Knock at the door. Thomas arrives. Jesus is gone. The others tell Thomas about Jesus' presence. Thomas doesn't believe their report. Accuses the others of trying to play him for a fool. Mary tells Thomas to go to the tomb and see for himself. "Lest I put my finger..." etc.

Roman soldiers. Pilate goes to the remaining guards who are beat upon by other soldiers. The one guard who came to Pilate to report what happened is spared.

Temple guard has come up with a body with all the necessary marks of crucifixion and the piercing of the side. Caiaphas sees but realizes this is not Jesus' body. Guard explains that if Caiaphas declares this to be Jesus' body, people will accept it as such, and if it is far enough off the ground, people will fail to see the deception. Caiaphas doesn't think it will work and commands the body to be taken away.

Thomas returns from the tomb with a report that the temple guards are resealing the tomb to make it appear that the body is still inside. Thomas still feels left out and refuses to believe. Jesus appears behind Thomas and allows examination of the wounds. "My Lord." "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe." Jesus disappears.

Romans break down the door to the room where the disciples were staying. Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother are inside. The disciples flee, Romans in pursuit. Chase over rooftops and alleys. They run inside a building, and when the Romans come through, they are attacked.

Mary and Mary are apprehended by the Romans, and demand to know to where the disciples have fled. They ask where Jesus' body went. Centurion commands his men to lock down the city.

Peter is assisted by Boaz and led to a safe room. Boaz offers his help. Scene cuts to a stash of knives and daggers. Peter refuses this kind of help involving killing. Boaz defends himself and says they only take lives as a last resort, unlike the Romans.

Annas is upset with Caiaphas for his close association with Pilate in regards to Jesus' execution. Annas rebukes Caiaphas. Leah (daughter of Annas, wife of Caiaphas) sides with Caiaphas. Joseph of Arimathea bursts into the room and demands an explanation as to why his tomb was desecrated. Joseph accuses Caiaphas of making matters worse, and that it will come back to bite him. Annas demands that any attempt at trying to apply Isaiah's prophecy to Jesus must be quashed, so that it doesn't come to destroy the priesthood.

Jerusalem gate. Romans preventing exit of city. Disciples want to get out. Zealots have prepared bombs against the Romans to clear the blockade. People run out.

Pilate wants to know (from centurion) why they have not yet apprehended the disciples. Centurion tells Pilate that the disciples did not escape with the corpse. Pilate wants to know if the body is at their hideout, then. Centurion says it was not there either.  Pilate hates Jerusalem. He cannot handle how the Jewish people seem to take every unexplainable phenomenon as a sign and a portent. He thinks this is affecting Claudia. Pilate will do whatever it takes to bring to end the mess with the Jesus incident.

Scene switches to Galilee. Lake Gennesaret. Fishing boat. Disciples on boat, fishing, but not catching anything. It is way past dawn. Pulling in the nets one more time. Nothing. From the shore, "How's the catch? ... Cast them on the right hand side." They do so. They catch some fish. John recognizes Jesus. Peter, too. Peter jumps in and begins swimming toward Jesus. A fire is burning. Jesus and Peter embrace.

Jerusalem. (This scene is confusing. Not sure if this description is accurate or not.) It looks like a temple guard is following an old man. A disguised Roman is following the guard. The old man is strangled to death by the temple guard. The Roman knocks out the guard, then slits his throat, leaving the body lying in the alley. (After seeing through to the end of this episode, it is under Pilate’s orders that all the temple guards that have been paid off by Caiaphas are being killed.)

Back to Galilee. Dialogue between Jesus and Peter. "Peter do you love me...?" Three times.

Leah approaches Caiaphas. He is annoyed that Annas is trying to control him. He thinks that Leah sometimes does that, too. Caiaphas is assured he has both of their support. Temple guard arrives to report that two of the guards in charge of the tomb have been discovered murdered, and the rest have disappeared. Pilate demands Caiaphas' to come see him.

Back to Galilee. Jesus and disciples in circle. Jesus explains prophecies. Jesus promises the Holy Spirit. He commands Peter to return to Jerusalem and wait for the promise. Jesus foretells Peter's martyrdom. Jesus asks if Peter is ready to do that. Peter responds in the affirmative.

They walk together. The commissioning from Acts 1. Dramatic sky. Disciples look on as Jesus is taken. Dramatic lighting effects. Jesus climbs a mountain where the angel from the resurrection scene is present at the top.

Pilate. "This will soon be over." Caiaphas appears. Pilate orders the Roman guards who abandoned their posts to be brought in. They are strangled to death. The one guard who came to Pilate to tell his story is killed by Pilate. The prophecy of the Nazarene appears to lie dead on the floor.

End, episode 2.

A.D. The Bible Continues (TV - NBC) - "The Tomb Is Open" (1/12)

Observations

I came to this with VERY low expectations. So anything other than a complete and utter catastrophe (e.g., “The Bible” miniseries) would rate fairly decently. And it turns out that, at least this first episode, wasn’t that bad. It was quite watchable for the most part. It takes dramatic and narrative liberties, yet much of it remains within the realm of plausibility.

If this first episode is an indication of the approach to the entire series, I think it is quite viewable (without all the cringing and grinding of teeth that often accompany “Bible” dramas).

Motifs

I came away with three major motifs that I felt this episode wanted to establish for its audience:

1. That Jesus really, really, really died.
2. That Jesus’ crucifixion was a result of a confluence of many complicated political and religious factors, and that early Christians will continue to face issues in this realm.
3. The role of women in ancient society.

Jesus Really, Really Died

In regards to the first point, the dramatizations of the brutality of the crucifixion, the Romans coming to break the crucifieds’ legs, the spear thrust, the burial witnessed by multiple individuals, (I think it was) Caiaphas examining the cross, Cornelius (the Centurion) confirming Jesus’ death in front of Pilate and Caiaphas, are all designed to show dramatically that there is no way Jesus could have been merely unconscious.

Politics and Religion Cause Jesus’ Death

Caiaphas’ and Leah’s (his wife) primary motivation as dramatized is to preserve the Temple and its systems. They see nothing wrong with the sacrificial rituals, and the pilgrims who come to offer them. Their concern is to preserve the traditions and peace with Rome. They see Jesus’ teachings as challenging the very foundations of their society and culture, and by extension, a challenge to Rome. Thus Jesus is not merely a troubler of their religion and way of life, but an insurrectionist. Caiaphas will stop at nothing to do what he believes is right, even if that means bringing in Rome. There are hints that this will eventually cause the Jewish nation problems.

As a foil to Caiaphas and Leah, Joseph of Arimathea is presented as a high-ranking priest, perhaps in line to become High Priest someday. But his actions in regards to Jesus will become a problem if greater priestly authority is the subject. Joseph questions Caiaphas’ actions and Leah’s approval of Jesus’ execution. Joseph questions whether Jesus really was that dangerous as Caiaphas believes him to be. Thus two powerful members of the priestly family are shown to be coming to odds.

Pilate and his wife, Claudia, are the other party. Pilate represents the political and military might of Rome. His main concern is to maintain the peace at all costs. He intentionally (but quietly) pits Caiaphas and Joseph against one another because infighting among the Jews means less of them fighting the Romans. He does not want to involve himself with Jewish squabbles and intervenes only when his position is threatened.

The dream Claudia had about Jesus defines who she is. She believes there is far more to Jesus than Pilate thinks there is. She is shown as one who is spiritual, who believes in omens from dreams. Pilate, on the other hand, is strictly pragmatic.

The Role of Women

Women take a prominent place in the first episode. Mary, Jesus’ mother, is the only one who continues to believe in Jesus and comes out scolding the disciples for their lack of faith. Leah, Caiaphas’ wife, is outspoken about her opinions about Jesus and the right-ness of how Jesus was handled. Claudia directly challenges her husband, Pilate, until he threatens her with his right and authority as political ruler and husband. Mary Magdalene seems to almost believe Mary, the mother’s, belief that Jesus will rise again. She confronts Peter about his denial. Taken as a whole, the women, on whichever “side” they place themselves, are strong-willed and confident; they know what they believe.

Nonviolence

I don’t think this was presented as a major motif (but it could become one later). But I mention it because it was intentionally developed. When Peter is invited by his Zealot acquaintance, Boaz, to join him, Peter refuses because, in spite of Jesus’ death, Peter still believes in the nonviolent way of love that Jesus taught. Boaz proclaims freedom; Jesus taught love. Peter chooses love. Peter has realized that the way of the sword only leads to death. Does love lead to life? He’s uncertain, but that is what he will put his faith in.

Quibbles

My major quibble is with Mary, Jesus’ mother, fully confident that Jesus will rise in three days. It makes for interesting interpersonal drama, but I don’t see where this is supported in scripture.

My next major quibble is why nearly all modern dramatizations of Jesus’ crucifixion have to concentrate so much on its brutality? The gospels don’t really put down a whole lot of ink. Granted the original audience knew all too well what crucifixion involved, and perhaps we need images to show what happened. On the other hand, maybe the gospels weren’t so concerned with the process of crucifixion and more with that mere fact that it happened and Jesus died.

Next, the resurrection where Jesus (Or was this the angel that came down in what looked like a comet? I’m still a bit confused here. I think the rest still applies.) seems to be shown as a conquering warrior with a drawn sword. I understand how imagery from particularly Revelation contributes to this, but it seems to run counter to the message of nonviolence.

And were wives and women that outspoken? This may be the correct trajectory of the gospel, but seems like an anachronistic portrayal.

Finally, why do so many of the disciples (and other Jewish men) look like hippies?

Synopsis

This was typed while watching, so I’m sure there are mistakes and omissions.

Opens with Jesus' trial before the Sanhedrin. Charge of blasphemy. Transfer to Pilate. Pilate tries to dismiss charges. Gives in to Jewish religious leaders' demands. Sentences Jesus to crucifixion. Peter is in the crowd. Golgotha - crucifixion. Graphic pounding of spikes - three of them. Women near the cross. Raising and dropping of cross.

Temple scene - blood being poured out onto an wall. Passover. Jerusalem. Priests (incl. Joseph, Annas, Caiaphas) - discuss the need to maintain sacrificial system. Jesus was a direct challenge to the system. Discussion includes the high priest's wife (Leah). Assembly line sacrificial scene at the temple with pilgrims.

 

Back to Jesus on the cross. "My God, My God. Why have you forsaken me?"

 

To Pilate. Request to expedite the death of Jesus. A request by Joseph of Arimathea to take the body. Pilate orders Cornelius to finish Jesus off. He grants Joseph's request. Justification: as long as the Jews are fighting amongst themselves, they won't become a serious threat. Pilate's wife, Claudia. Speaks of her dream. Pilate dismisses her dream - can't govern based on a woman's dreams. Pilate tries to justify his decision by claiming that Jesus was a threat to Rome. Claudia states that killing Jesus won't be the end of him.

 

Back to the cross. "It is finished." Jesus dies. Mourning by some of the bystanders. Peter way of in the distance looking toward the hill. Darkness over the land, storm, and earthquake. Chaos. Tearing of the temple veil.

 

Jerusalem, then cross. Mourning women. Detachments of soldiers to break legs. Mary (mother) implores the soldier to not break Jesus' leg. Spear thrust. Joseph arrives to claim the body and offer a tomb.

 

Judas hangs himself. Interspersed with returning blood money and Jesus' burial. Closing of the tomb. Peter still looking from a long distance away. Mary and John return to a room and joined by Mary Magdalene. Mary Magdalene thinks Mary (mother) believes Jesus will rise from the dead.

 

Caiaphas residence. Children and wife. Joseph arrives. Joseph doesn't believe Jesus posed a threat. Caiaphas' wife believes Jesus was a threat. Joseph reveals that his tomb holds Jesus. Caiaphas refers to Isaiah's prophecy, alarmed at its implications. Argument between them. Caiaphas is sure Jesus' teachings will not survive.

 

Peter comes to John. The other disciples are not around. Mary Magdalene confronts Peter about his whereabouts during the ordeal. Peter asks if Jesus is dead. John confirms. Peter is resigned to all this being over. Mary Magdalene speaks of various foretellings of Jesus: Judas' betrayal, Peter's denial. She asks if Peter did or did not deny Jesus. Peter admits failure. Mary Magdalene repeats Mary's (mother) belief that Jesus will rise.

 

Jerusalem, next day. A Zealot (Boaz) draws a dagger and eyes Romans trying to provoke confrontation. Soldiers are distracted and walks away.

 

Caiaphas returns to Pilate. Pilate denies any hidden intent of causing friction amongst the Jews by allowing Jesus to be buried in the tomb of a prominent elder. Caiaphas claims prophecies to state that his followers will attempt to steal the body to claim a resurrection. He demands Roman guards for the tomb. Pilate wonders why this "nobody", a single individual is so much trouble for the Jews. He sends a detachment to keep the peace.

 

Back to Jerusalem. A couple of disciples of Jesus return to Jerusalem, are recognized by the Romans, and run. They are taken by a couple of Zealots (incl. Boaz) and explain who they are.

 

Back at the cross. Caiaphas(?) examines the cross and says, "He bled like a man." As he leaves, says to the Romans to remove the cross and break it up.

 

Peter and Boaz are old acquaintances. Boaz wants Peter and the rest to join the Zealots. Jesus preached love; the Zealots preach freedom. Boaz claims the Romans will come after each of them, one by one. Peter cannot join the Zealots or employ their means.

 

Pilate and his wife. Pilate is annoyed by Claudia's obsession with Jesus. Cornelius arrives and confirms that Jesus was dead. (Lots of dialogue in this and earlier scenes about confirmation of Jesus' death.) Pilate threatens Claudia to never again speak of Jesus or of dreams about him.

 

The disciples debate leaving Jerusalem. Some think they are being targeted. Others don't think they matter anymore and are being ignored. Mary (mother) enters to remind them of Jesus' prophecy that he will rise again. Duty to family is that they save their lives. Peter convinces them to wait three days.

 

Back to Caiaphas. A messenger arrives with news of Judas Iscariot. Caiaphas thinks (not yet hearing the Judas is dead) wants to use Judas to go after the other disciples. Now gets news that Judas has killed himself.

 

The tomb. Roman detachment of soldiers. Before dawn. Jerusalem. Disciples. John describes the trial, torture, and crucifixion to the other disciples. Caiaphas and wife - she commends him for his political savvy in maintaining peace, for using Pilate to achieve his ends. Flashback to trial. Pilate - flashback to "What is truth?" Peter - flashback to denial.

 

Earthquake. Tomb. An angel (comet-like) descends from the heavens to a sealed tomb that is starting to glow. Stone is rolled away. Jesus (or an angel, I lost track) is portrayed as a sword-wielding conqueror. The soldiers look away. Soldiers come to Caiaphas to report the event. Jesus is gone.

 

End of episode 1.