Witness the ultimate sacrifice and unyielding love in the dramatic retelling of The Passion of the Christ.
Watch the original version of The Passion of the Christ
Prologue:
In the small town of Nazareth, a man named Jesus lived a humble life as a carpenter. But he was no ordinary man. He performed miracles, healing the sick and feeding the hungry with his words and touch. Word of his powers spread, and soon people from all over Israel came to see him.
Jesus knew that his time on earth was coming to an end. He had a mission to complete, and he was determined to see it through. He traveled to Jerusalem with his followers, knowing that his fate awaited him there.
Chapter 1 – The Beginning of the End:
The streets of Jerusalem were crowded with people as Jesus made his way to the city. His disciples followed behind, in awe of their leader’s powers.
As they walked, Jesus spoke to his followers about the kingdom of God, using parables and stories to convey his message. The crowds grew larger, and soon, people were shouting his name and waving palm branches in the air.
But amidst the euphoria, Jesus knew that his time was running out. He had come to Jerusalem to fulfill a prophecy, to offer his life as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity. He was aware of the danger that awaited him, but he pressed on towards his mission.
The disciples were anxious, sensing that something ominous was about to happen. They worried for their leader’s safety, and begged him to leave the city. But Jesus was resolute; he had to see his mission through to the end.
As they reached the city, Jesus sent two of his disciples ahead to make arrangements for their stay. He instructed them to look for a man carrying a jar of water, who would guide them to a room where they could have their last meal together.
The disciples found the man as Jesus had instructed, and they made their way to the upper room where the last supper would take place. Jesus greeted them warmly, knowing that this would be their final gathering.
As they ate, Jesus spoke to his disciples about the events that were about to unfold. He predicted that one of them would betray him, and that he would be handed over to the authorities to be crucified.
The disciples were shocked and saddened by Jesus’ words. They couldn’t believe that one of their own would betray him, and they were frightened by the thought of losing their leader.
But Jesus reassured them, telling them that he would rise from the dead, and that he would be with them always, even until the end of time.
As the night turned to morning, Jesus and his disciples made their way to the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus went to pray. He was tormented by the knowledge of his impending death, and he begged his disciples to stay awake and pray with him.
But they were tired, and soon they fell asleep. Jesus, alone in his anguish, cried out to God, asking him to take the cup of suffering away from him.
As he prayed, Judas arrived with a crowd of soldiers, sent by the chief priests to arrest Jesus. Judas approached Jesus, kissing him on the cheek, signaling to the soldiers that he was the one they were looking for.
Jesus surrendered himself to the soldiers, knowing that his fate was sealed. The disciples, awoken by the commotion, tried to defend their leader, but they were quickly overpowered.
As Jesus was led away, the disciples scattered, afraid for their own lives. They had witnessed the beginning of the end, and they knew that their world would never be the same again.
Chapter 2 – The Betrayal
Judas stood in the shadows, watching as Jesus made his way through the crowded streets of Jerusalem. He had been one of Jesus’ disciples for three years, but lately, he had been feeling disillusioned. Jesus wasn’t the Messiah he had hoped for, and he was tired of waiting for something to happen.
As he watched Jesus, his mind raced. He knew that the chief priests were looking for a way to arrest Jesus, and he knew they would pay a high price for information on his whereabouts. It wasn’t long before he made up his mind. He would betray Jesus.
That night, while the disciples were gathered for dinner, Jesus made a shocking announcement. “One of you will betray me,” he said, his voice low and serious.
The room fell silent. The disciples looked from one to another, trying to figure out who could possibly be the traitor. Judas sat there, trying to keep his composure, but he knew that Jesus was talking about him.
After dinner, Judas slipped out of the house and made his way to the chief priests. They were expecting him, and they were eager to strike a deal. Judas agreed to give them information on where Jesus would be that night, in exchange for thirty pieces of silver.
The chief priests were delighted. They had been waiting for an opportunity like this for a long time. Jesus was a threat to their power, and they needed to get rid of him.
Judas returned to the disciples, his heart heavy with guilt. He had sold out his friend for a few pieces of silver. He tried to act as if nothing was wrong, but the other disciples sensed that something was off. They asked him if he was okay, but he just brushed them off.
As the night wore on, Jesus and his disciples made their way to the Garden of Gethsemane. It was a quiet, peaceful place, and Jesus often went there to pray. But tonight, something was different. Jesus was tense and agitated, and the disciples could sense his anxiety.
He asked them to wait for him while he went off to pray, but they fell asleep. Judas arrived soon after, leading a crowd of soldiers and armed men. He had already given them a signal – the person he kissed would be Jesus.
Judas approached Jesus and kissed him on the cheek. “Greetings, Rabbi,” he said, his voice hollow.
Jesus looked at him with sadness in his eyes. “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”
The soldiers moved in, but Peter drew his sword and attacked one of them. Jesus stopped him, saying, “Put your sword back in its place. Those who live by the sword will die by the sword.”
The soldiers arrested Jesus and led him away, while the disciples scattered in fear. Judas watched from a distance, feeling a strange mixture of satisfaction and regret.
As he walked away, he realized that he had made a terrible mistake. He had betrayed his friend, his teacher, his Lord. He could never take back what he had done. He went back to the chief priests and tried to give back the silver, but they refused to take it. Judas was consumed with guilt and despair. He went out and hung himself.
The betrayal of Jesus by Judas is one of the most infamous acts in human history. It raises questions about loyalty, betrayal, and the nature of evil. How could someone who had been so close to Jesus, who had witnessed his miracles and heard his teachings, turn against him? Was Judas a victim of his own weakness, or an agent of Satan? Whatever the answer, the betrayal of Jesus reminds us that even the best among us can succumb to temptation, and that the consequences of our actions can be far-reaching and devastating.
Chapter 3 – The Last Supper
Jesus gathered with his disciples for a final meal together, knowing it would be his last. As they entered the room, a sense of solemnity hung in the air. Jesus looked at each of them, knowing that one of them would betray him.
He took a seat at the head of the table and motioned for his disciples to sit around him. As they settled in, Jesus began to speak.
“Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.”
The disciples looked at each other in confusion and disbelief. They had left everything to follow Jesus, and the thought of one of their own betraying him was unfathomable.
Peter, always quick to speak, leaned over to John and asked, “Who do you think it could be?”
John shrugged his shoulders. He had no idea who would do something so terrible.
Jesus continued speaking, his voice soft but filled with sadness. “The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.”
The disciples shifted uncomfortably in their seats, knowing that Jesus was speaking directly to them. They were all in shock, wondering who would do such a thing.
As they ate their meal, Jesus took the bread and broke it, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”
He then took the cup and said, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.”
The disciples drank from the cup, but their minds were elsewhere. They were all consumed with the thought that one of them would betray Jesus.
In the midst of their confusion, Jesus spoke again. “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.”
The disciples looked at each other, wondering what Jesus could mean. They knew he spoke of things they couldn’t quite understand.
As they finished their meal, Jesus stood up and began to wash their feet. The disciples were shocked. They couldn’t believe that their teacher, their rabbi, would stoop so low as to wash their feet.
Peter, in his typical fashion, protested. “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”
Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”
He continued washing their feet, each one in turn. The disciples were humbled and grateful, but still couldn’t shake the feeling that something was amiss.
As the night wore on, Jesus continued to speak to his disciples, telling them of the trials that were to come. He warned them that they would be scattered, that they would deny him, but that he still loved them.
Finally, as the night grew late, Jesus said, “Arise, let us go from here.”
The disciples followed him out of the room, still unsure of what was to come. They walked through the city, the moon casting an eerie glow on the streets.
As they reached the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus turned to his disciples and said, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.”
He took Peter, James, and John with him, and began to pray in agony. “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”
The disciples, exhausted from the long day and the heavy emotions, fell asleep. But Jesus continued to pray, his heart heavy with the knowledge of what was to come.
As he prayed, a group of men arrived, led by Judas. They were armed, and they had come to arrest Jesus.
The disciples awoke and saw what was happening. Peter, always quick to act, drew his sword and swung at one of the men. But Jesus stopped him.
“Put your sword back in its place,” he said. “For all who draw the sword will die by the sword. Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?”
The men took Jesus away, leaving the disciples in shock and confusion. They had followed him for so long, believing he was the Messiah, but now it seemed that everything was falling apart.
As they left the garden and made their way through the dark streets, the disciples were filled with fear and uncertainty. They didn’t know what the future held, but they knew that they were lost without Jesus.
Chapter 4 – The Garden of Gethsemane
The night sky was clear, and the moon shone brightly over the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus and his disciples had just finished their last supper together, and now they were heading towards the garden. Jesus knew what was coming; he knew that he was going to be arrested, and that his time on earth was coming to an end. He told his disciples to pray so that they wouldn’t be tempted to fall into sin.
As they arrived at the garden, Jesus asked his disciples to stay there while he prayed. He took Peter, James, and John with him, and the two groups separated. Jesus went a little further into the garden and fell to the ground, praying. He was in agony as he prayed to his Father, pouring out his heart in anguish.
“Father, if it is possible, take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will,” Jesus prayed. He knew what was coming, and the thought of the pain and suffering that he would have to endure was almost too much to bear.
As he prayed, his disciples, who were supposed to be watching, fell asleep. He came back to them and said, “Could you not watch with me for one hour? Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Jesus went back to pray again, and this time, he prayed even harder. His sweat became like drops of blood falling to the ground. He knew that he had to face what was coming, but the pain and suffering that lay ahead were almost too much for him to bear.
As he prayed, Judas, one of his disciples, arrived with a crowd of people to arrest him. Judas had made a deal with the chief priests to hand Jesus over for thirty pieces of silver. The crowd was armed, and they were determined to take Jesus into custody.
Judas came forward and kissed Jesus on the cheek, and the guards knew that he was the one they were looking for. Jesus stood up to face them, and one of his disciples drew his sword and cut off the ear of one of the high priest’s servants. But Jesus said, “Put your sword back in its place, for all who draw the sword will die by the sword. Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?”
The guards seized Jesus and took him away, leaving his disciples behind. Jesus knew what was coming, and he had accepted his fate. He knew that he had to die so that others could live. His love for humanity was greater than his own life.
As the guards took Jesus away, the disciples scattered. Peter followed at a distance, watching from afar. He was afraid and unsure of what to do. He had denied Jesus three times earlier in the evening when he was asked if he was one of Jesus’ followers. Now, he was filled with guilt and regret.
The night was long and dark, and Jesus’ disciples were lost and afraid. They didn’t know what was going to happen next, but they knew that their lives were about to change forever. The events that were about to unfold would change the course of history and impact the lives of millions of people for generations to come.
The Garden of Gethsemane was where Jesus accepted his fate and began his journey towards the cross. It was where he showed his love for humanity, even in the face of great suffering. His sacrifice was the ultimate act of love, and it would forever be remembered as a testament to his compassion and grace.
As the night wore on, the disciples would face their own challenges and struggles. They would be forced to confront their fears and doubts, and they would have to decide whether to follow Jesus or turn away. But for now, they were lost and confused, trying to make sense of what had just happened. The night was long and dark, and the future was uncertain.
Chapter 5 – The Trial
Jesus, bound and bruised from his arrest, is dragged before Caiaphas, the high priest, in the middle of the night. The room is filled with religious leaders who have gathered to witness his trial.
Caiaphas looks Jesus over with disdain, his eyes lingering on the dried blood on his face. “Are you the Messiah?” he asks, his voice dripping with sarcasm.
Jesus looks up at him with a calm but determined expression. “I am,” he replies.
The religious leaders murmur amongst themselves, some scoffing at Jesus’ claim, while others appear uneasy. Caiaphas leans forward, his eyes narrowing. “Blasphemy,” he declares, “You claim to be the Son of God.”
Jesus does not deny it. “You say that I am,” he responds.
Caiaphas turns to his fellow leaders. “What do you think?” he asks. “He claims to be the Son of God.”
Many of the leaders nod in agreement, while others shake their heads in disbelief. One of them speaks up. “He’s a blasphemer,” he says. “He deserves to die.”
Caiaphas nods in agreement. “Very well,” he says, “we will take him to Pilate.”
The guards drag Jesus from the room and take him to the Roman governor’s palace. The sun is just beginning to rise, and the streets of Jerusalem are already crowded with people going about their business.
As they walk, the guards jeer at Jesus and mock him, striking him with their fists and hurling insults. But Jesus remains silent, his eyes fixed on the distance.
Finally, they arrive at the palace, where Pilate is already waiting for them. He’s a tall, imposing figure, dressed in fine robes and surrounded by a retinue of armed soldiers.
“What is the charge against this man?” Pilate asks, looking down at Jesus.
Caiaphas steps forward. “He claims to be the King of the Jews,” he says.
Pilate looks at Jesus. “Are you the King of the Jews?”
Jesus meets his gaze unflinchingly. “My kingdom is not of this world,” he says, “but yes, I am a king.”
Pilate frowns. “I find no basis for a charge against him,” he says. “But it is the custom for me to release one prisoner to you at the Passover. So, would you like me to release this man, Jesus, or Barabbas, the rebel?”
The crowd begins to chant, “Barabbas! Give us Barabbas!” They shout, demanding his release.
Pilate looks at Jesus, who stands quietly before him. “What shall I do with this man?” he asks the crowd.
“Crucify him! Crucify him!” they shout back.
Pilate sighs heavily, knowing full well that Jesus is innocent. But he also knows that the crowd is growing increasingly unruly, and he fears a riot. “Very well,” he says, “let it be done as you wish.”
Jesus is taken away by the guards, his fate now sealed.
Chapter 6 – The Scourging
As Jesus stood before Pontius Pilate, he could feel the weight of the world bearing down on him. The accusations of blasphemy were ringing in his ears, but he knew there was something else brewing. The anger and hatred of the crowd was palpable. He knew what was coming next.
He was brought to the courtyard, and the guards stripped him of his clothes. The scourging was about to begin. Jesus winced as the whip landed on his back. The pain was unbearable. The leather thongs were laced with shards of bone and metal, tearing at his flesh with each strike.
The crowd watched, some shouting insults and others pleading for mercy. Pilate looked on, his face stoic, yet troubled. This was no ordinary prisoner. Jesus’ eyes met Pilate’s briefly, and he could see the turmoil in the governor’s heart.
The scourging continued, each lash leaving a new wound on Jesus’ already battered body. His back was a bloody mess, and he struggled to stay on his feet. The guards showed no mercy, continuing their torturous assault.
As the scourging went on, Jesus’ thoughts turned to his disciples. He had tried to prepare them for this moment, yet he could sense their fear and confusion. They thought he was their savior, yet here he was, beaten and broken.
Jesus’ heart ached for them, and for all the people who had followed him. He knew this was all part of the plan, but it was still hard to bear. He wondered if they would understand the sacrifice he was about to make.
The scourging finally ended, and Jesus collapsed to the ground. The guards showed no concern for his well-being, kicking and spitting on him as they dragged him away. Pilate watched until he was out of sight, his mind filled with doubt and regret.
As Jesus lay in his cell, he knew his time was running out. The scourging had left him weak and in agony, but he still had one more trial to face. The weight of the cross loomed over him, but he was determined to carry it to his final destination.
He closed his eyes and prayed for strength. He knew that this was the only way to save the souls of mankind. The sacrifice he was about to make would be felt for generations to come.
The scourging was just the beginning of his suffering, but Jesus remained steadfast in his resolve. He knew that his love for humanity would see him through to the end. And so, he prepared himself for what lay ahead.
Chapter 7 – The Crucifixion
Jesus stumbled as he relentlessly carried the cross on his shoulder through the streets of Jerusalem. The weight of the wooden beam was unbearable, and his body was already exhausted from the beating and tortures he had undergone. His garments were soaked with blood from the scourging, and his face was bruised, swollen and unrecognizable. The crown of thorns that had been forced onto his head had made it hard for Jesus to see or hear properly.
The Roman soldiers led the procession, shouting and jeering at the man who dared to challenge their authority. Jesus’ followers and a few curious onlookers watched in horror as their leader was humiliated and persecuted. Some wept silently, while others prayed and chanted hymns. Mary, Jesus’ mother, and Mary Magdalene followed the procession, their tears flowing uncontrollably.
At last, they reached Golgotha, the hill where they would crucify Jesus. The soldiers laid down the cross, and Jesus lay on it, his hands and feet tied with ropes. The carpenters quickly nailed Jesus to the cross, and the agony was unbearable. Jesus gritted his teeth, trying to suppress the screams that threatened to escape his lips.
The soldiers raised the cross, and Jesus’ weight was suspended in mid-air. His whole body shook uncontrollably, as he tried to maintain consciousness.
The crowd that had gathered was silent, except for a few who mocked Jesus, and others who said silent prayers. It was unusual, for such a large group of people to be so quiet, even as the events were unfolding.
As the minutes ticked by, the sky began to darken, and thunder rumbled in the distance. Suddenly, a bolt of lightning struck the ground, and the earth shook. Rocks fell from the hills, and people started running in all directions, screaming in fear.
Mary and Mary Magdalene clung to each other, as they watched in horror. They had never experienced anything like this before. It was evident that the events unfolding were no ordinary happenings. Something inexplicable was going on.
Jesus’ breathing became shallow, and his chest heaved with the effort of staying alive. His vision blurred, and his thoughts became hazy.
The soldiers divided Jesus’ garments among themselves, casting lots for his seamless robe. This was predicted in the scriptures, but Jesus was beyond comprehension at this point.
One of the thieves that was crucified with Jesus mocked him, saying, “If you are the Christ, save yourself and us!”
But the other thief rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.”
Then he turned to Jesus and said, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.”
Jesus responded, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
As the thunder rolled and the earth shook, Jesus uttered his final words, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.”
And with that, he took his last breath and died.
The sky turned dark, and the temple veil was torn from top to bottom. Mary and Mary Magdalene wept uncontrollably, and Jesus’ followers mourned their loss.
But something had shifted in the atmosphere. The event had caused the people to question their beliefs, and wonder if something inexplicable had just occurred. Some would go on to discover that indeed, something miraculous had happened, and that Jesus Christ was who he claimed to be.
The crucifixion was not just the end, but a beginning of a new era for those who believed in Jesus Christ, and the story of his sacrifice and resurrection would be told for generations to come.
Chapter 8 – The Death:
Jesus hung on the cross, his body wracked with pain. Beaten, whipped, and tortured, he had endured all of it without retaliation or call for help. Now, as he gasped for breath, he could feel the life draining out of him.
He looked down at the crowd that had gathered below him. Some of them were weeping, others shouting insults. He caught sight of Mary, his mother, standing near the foot of the cross. He could see the pain in her eyes, the grief etched across her face.
“Mother,” he whispered. “Behold your son.”
And then to John, “Behold your mother.”
He wanted to spare her the pain of watching him die. He wanted to comfort her, to hold her close. But he couldn’t move. He could barely speak.
The hours passed slowly, agonizingly. He felt every breath become more labored, every heartbeat slower. And as the sun began to set, darkness descended upon the land.
The crowd grew quiet, as if in awe of the scene unfolding before them. Even the soldiers who had crucified Jesus were subdued, sensing that something profound was happening.
Jesus closed his eyes, feeling a sense of peace wash over him. He knew that he was about to die, but he also knew that his work was finished. He had fulfilled his mission on earth, and now it was time to return to his Father in heaven.
Suddenly, he cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
It was a cry of agony, of despair, of loneliness. He knew that he was about to die, alone and abandoned by all those he had loved and served.
And then, in a voice so weak that it was almost a whisper, he said, “It is finished.”
With those words, he gave up his spirit. The earth shook, and the sky grew dark. And in that moment, the world was forever changed.
The soldiers came to break the legs of the crucified men, to hasten their deaths, but when they came to Jesus, they found that he was already dead. They pierced his side with a spear, and blood and water flowed out.
As the body of Jesus was taken down from the cross, it was given to his mother, who held him close and wept. And then, he was laid in a tomb, and a great stone was rolled in front of it.
The disciples scattered, afraid for their lives. They had thought that Jesus was the Messiah, the promised one who would save them from their oppressors. But now, he was dead, and their hopes were dashed.
But unknown to them, the story was far from over. For on the third day, the tomb would be found empty, and Jesus would rise from the dead.
The death of Jesus was a moment of profound sadness and loss, but it was also a moment of hope and promise. For in his death, he had defeated death itself, and in his resurrection, he had opened the way for all of us to find eternal life.
Chapter 9 – The Resurrection
The news of Jesus’ resurrection spread like wildfire among his followers. At first, a few doubted the stories, but as more and more witnesses came forward with their own accounts of seeing Jesus alive, the truth became impossible to ignore.
Mary Magdalene, who had been one of Jesus’ closest disciples, was one of the first to see him. She had gone to his tomb on the third day, expecting to find his body as she had left it. Instead, she found the stone rolled away, and the tomb empty.
Frantically, she ran to tell the others, finding Peter and John to bring them to the tomb. When they saw that the tomb was empty, they were initially confused and uncertain, but when they went into the tomb and saw the linen wrappings lying there, they began to believe.
As the disciples gathered together, they shared stories of their own encounters with the risen Jesus. Some had seen him while they were walking along the road, others had met him in a locked room. One disciple named Thomas, who had initially doubted the reports of the resurrection, was so convinced when he saw Jesus that he fell to his knees and exclaimed, “my Lord and my God!”
Despite their joy at seeing Jesus alive again, the disciples were still afraid. They knew that the authorities who had put Jesus to death might come after them next. But Jesus appeared to them, reassuring them that they had nothing to fear.
“Peace be with you,” he said, showing them the wounds in his hands and side. “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”
With those words, Jesus gave his disciples a mission: to spread the good news of his resurrection and the hope that it brought to all people. He promised to be with them always, even as he ascended into heaven.
For the disciples, the days that followed were filled with wonder and amazement. They traveled far and wide, sharing the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection, and watching as countless others came to believe in him.
As time went on, the disciples faced persecution and hardship, but they continued to spread the good news of Jesus wherever they went. They never forgot the sacred journey that had led them from the Last Supper, to the crucifixion, and finally, to the resurrection.
And today, two thousand years later, their message continues to resonate with people all over the world. The story of Jesus’ death and resurrection is one of ultimate sacrifice, unwavering love, and the triumph of good over evil. It is a story that will continue to captivate and inspire readers for generations to come.
Some scenes from the movie The Passion of the Christ written by A.I.
Scene 1
Genre: Drama
Setting: Jerusalem
Characters:
Jesus – A prophet with a kind and compassionate heart, who is devoted to spreading the message of love and hope.
Mary – Jesus’ mother, who is deeply concerned about her son’s safety as he embarks on his mission.
Peter – One of Jesus’ closest disciples, who is fiercely loyal and protective of him.
Judas – A disciple of Jesus, who is secretly plotting to betray him.
The sun rises over the city of Jerusalem, as Jesus and his followers make their way through the crowded streets. The air is electric with excitement as word of his arrival spreads, and people flock to catch a glimpse of the man who performs miracles.
As they enter the city gates, Mary pulls Jesus aside, her face etched with worry. “My son,” she says, “I fear for your safety. The crowds are growing larger every day, and the authorities are watching your every move.”
Jesus puts a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “Do not worry, mother,” he says. “I am doing the work of my Father, and I trust in his protection.”
As they continue on towards the temple, Peter approaches Jesus, his brow furrowed with concern. “Master,” he says, “the Pharisees and scribes are waiting for you. They seek to trap you with their questions and discredit your teachings.”
Jesus nods, his eyes filled with a calm determination. “Let them come,” he says. “I will speak the truth, and let the people decide.”
As they arrive at the temple, a throng of people surround Jesus, eager to hear his words. He stands, his voice ringing out with clarity, as he speaks of love, forgiveness, and the coming of the kingdom of God.
But as night falls, and the crowds begin to disperse, Judas slips away, a sly smile on his lips. He knows that he has a job to do, and that tomorrow will mark the beginning of the end.
Scene 2
Characters: Jesus, Judas, Peter, John, James, Andrew, Chief Priests
Setting: Jerusalem
Dialogues:
Judas: “I will hand him over to you for thirty pieces of silver.”
Chief Priest: “Excellent. We will pay you as soon as we have him.”
Peter: “Lord, why do you think Judas would do this to you?”
Jesus: “He has his own reasons, Peter. But everything will be done according to God’s plan.”
Scene – Chapter 2 – The Betrayal:
Judas meets with the chief priests in a dimly lit alley.
Chief Priest: “Are you sure you can deliver Jesus to us?”
Judas: “I can. He’s going to the Garden of Gethsemane tonight. You can arrest him there.”
Chief Priest: “And how will we know which one is Jesus?”
Judas: “I will kiss him. That will be the sign.”
Later that night, in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus is praying while his disciples sleep nearby. Suddenly, a group of armed men arrive with Judas leading the way.
Judas: “Greetings, Rabbi.” (he kisses Jesus on the cheek)
Jesus: “Judas, do you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?”
Peter tries to defend Jesus and draws a sword, but Jesus tells him to put it away.
Jesus: “Shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?”
The soldiers seize Jesus, and the disciples scatter in fear. Judas looks on with a mix of guilt and regret as Jesus is led away.
Scene 3
INT. THE UPPER ROOM – NIGHT
The room is dimly lit, filled with a sense of heaviness as Jesus and his disciples gather around a wooden table for their last supper together.
JESUS
(gently)
One of you will betray me.
The disciples look at each other, confusion and fear etched upon their faces.
PETER
(shaken)
Surely not I, Lord?
JUDAS
(looking away)
Is it I?
JESUS
(sadly)
It is he who dips his hand in the dish with me.
Judas’ hand trembles as he reaches for the bread. The room falls silent as Jesus takes the bread and breaks it.
JESUS
(tenderly)
This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.
He takes the cup and raises it.
JESUS (CONT’D)
This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.
The disciples share in the bread and wine, their hearts heavy with the weight of this moment.
JESUS
(looking at each one)
You will all fall away because of me this night. For it is written, ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’
PETER
(defiantly)
Even if all fall away, I will never fall away.
JESUS
(sadly)
Truly, I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.
The disciples exchange glances, uncertainty in their eyes as the realization of what is to come sets in.
The camera slowly pulls away, the sound of their whispers echoing in the room, as the screen fades to black.
Scene 4
FADE IN:
EXT. GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE – NIGHT
Jesus kneels in prayer, his disciples sleeping nearby. Judas arrives with a crowd of soldiers.
Judas: (to the soldiers) “The one I kiss is the man you want. Arrest him.”
Judas approaches Jesus and kisses him on the cheek.
Jesus: “Do you betray me with a kiss, Judas?”
The soldiers grab Jesus, and one of his disciples draws a sword.
Jesus: “Put away your sword. Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?”
The soldiers lead Jesus away, as his disciples flee.
INT. PALACE OF THE HIGH PRIEST – NIGHT
Jesus is brought before Caiaphas and other religious leaders.
Caiaphas: “Are you the Christ, the Son of God?”
Jesus: “I am.”
The high priest tears his robes in anger.
Caiaphas: “He has spoken blasphemy! What do you think?”
The council deems Jesus guilty and prepares to hand him over to the Romans for punishment.
EXT. ROMAN GOVERNOR’S PALACE – DAY
Jesus is brought before Pontius Pilate.
Pilate: “Are you the king of the Jews?”
Jesus: “My kingdom is not of this world.”
Pilate finds no fault in Jesus, but the crowd demands his crucifixion.
Pilate: “I wash my hands of this man’s blood. Do as you will.”
INT. ROMAN BARRACKS – DAY
Soldiers scourge Jesus, beating him with whips and lashes.
Jesus endures the torture in silence, as blood gushes from his wounds.
FADE TO BLACK.
FADE IN:
INT. PRISON CELL – NIGHT
Jesus, bruised and battered, is alone in a cell. His disciples are gone, and darkness closes in around him.
Jesus: (to himself) “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
The sound of a rooster crows in the distance.
FADE OUT.
Scene 5
INT. PALACE – DAY
Caiaphas, the high priest, stands before Pilate, the Roman governor. The room is dimly lit, with torches flickering on the walls.
CAIAPHAS
This man, Jesus of Nazareth, is a threat to our way of life. He claims to be the son of God and the Messiah, and his followers believe him.
PILATE
And your evidence for this is?
CAIAPHAS
He has performed miracles and blasphemed against the temple.
PILATE
I see. And what do you want me to do about it?
CAIAPHAS
We want him crucified.
Pilate looks at Caiaphas with a stern expression, his gaze cold.
PILATE
Do you realize the gravity of what you’re asking me to do? This man is innocent, and I will not condemn him to death without cause.
Caiaphas looks outraged, his face contorting with anger.
CAIAPHAS
Are you refusing to carry out justice? Have you forgotten your duty to Rome?
Pilate leans forward, his eyes piercing.
PILATE
I have not forgotten my duty. And I will not be swayed by your religious beliefs. Bring me evidence of this man’s crimes, or I will set him free.
Caiaphas looks defeated, his hands clenching into fists.
CAIAPHAS
Very well. We will bring you evidence.
He turns and storms out of the room, his robes swishing behind him.
Pilate watches him go, his expression unreadable.
Scene 6
INT. ROMAN PRISON – DAY
Jesus is brought into a dimly lit cell, his body covered in blood and bruises. Two Roman soldiers stand guard at the entrance.
Soldier 1:
(angrily)
You’re lucky Pilate decided to spare your life. We were hoping for a bit of sport.
Jesus:
(calmly)
I understand your anger. But my journey is not over yet.
Soldier 2:
(skeptical)
What journey? You’re a dead man walking.
Jesus:
(firmly)
My mission is to bring hope and salvation to all mankind. Even to those who hate me.
Soldier 1:
(scoffing)
Save us from what? Your God’s punishment? We’re soldiers, we fear no gods.
Jesus:
(sadly)
It’s not punishment that God desires, but love and forgiveness. Even for those who crucify the innocent.
Soldier 2:
(irritated)
Enough preaching. We have orders to scourge you until you beg for mercy.
Jesus:
(resigned)
Then do what you must.
The soldiers grab hold of Jesus and begin to whip him mercilessly. He grits his teeth and endures the pain, his eyes fixed on a distant horizon.
INT. ROMAN PRISON – LATER
Jesus is lying on the ground, his back raw and bleeding. The soldiers have left him alone in his cell.
Jesus:
(weakly)
Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.
He closes his eyes and drifts into a deep sleep, his breathing shallow and steady.
FADE TO BLACK.
Scene 7
FADE IN:
EXT. GOLGOTHA – DAY
JESUS is being led up the hill of Golgotha by ROMAN SOLDIERS. He struggles to carry the heavy wooden cross on his back. The crowds gather around, some jeering, some weeping.
JESUS
(to the crowd)
Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.
As the nails are hammered into his hands and feet, Jesus cries out in pain. The sky darkens, and thunder rumbles in the distance.
JOHN, one of Jesus’ disciples, stands weeping at the foot of the cross. The other disciples and Mary, Jesus’ mother, are there as well.
MARY
(weeping)
My son, my beloved son.
JOHN
(to Mary)
Woman, behold thy son.
Jesus speaks his final words.
JESUS
(to John)
Behold thy mother.
The soldiers cast lots for Jesus’ clothes as he hangs on the cross. A thief next to him begs for mercy.
THIEF
(to Jesus)
Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.
JESUS
(softly)
Verily I say unto thee, today shalt thou be with me in paradise.
The storm intensifies as Jesus takes his final breath and dies on the cross. The ground shakes as the veil of the temple is torn in two.
FADE OUT.
Scene 8
INT. GOLGOTHA – DAY
JESUS, beaten and bloodied, is nailed to the cross. The crowd jeers and throws insults at him.
JESUS: (weakly) Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.
MARY, Jesus’ mother, weeps uncontrollably as she watches her son suffer.
MARY: (sobbing) My son, my son.
JOHN, one of Jesus’ disciples, stands by Mary’s side and tries to comfort her.
JOHN: (to Mary) He’s in God’s hands now.
SOLDIER 1: (to Jesus) Save yourself, if you’re really the Son of God.
SOLDIER 2: (laughing) Yeah, come on, show us your powers.
JESUS: (gasping for air) Father, into your hands, I commit my spirit.
As Jesus takes his last breath, the sky turns dark and thunder rumbles through the air, startling everyone.
MARY: (panic-stricken) What’s happening?
JOHN: (looking up) It’s a sign, Mary. A sign that he was the Son of God.
The soldiers, realizing the gravity of what they’ve just done, stand in stunned silence.
SOLDIER 1: (whispering) Truly, this man was the Son of God.
MARY: (kneels down and kisses Jesus’ feet) Goodbye, my son. Until we meet again.
As the soldiers take down Jesus’ body, Mary and John hold onto each other, grieving for their loss.
FADE TO BLACK.
