<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/zp86xaginyaw9fo9gjtsr/New.png?rlkey=qoxr6yvllk4yyz86mop7wdd0v&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Welcome to an interactive story set in First-Century Jerusalem. Experience life during the time of Jesus!
[[Start|Jerusalem 1]]
[[Credits|Credits]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/0oegw2ejl9vyuhftyhuuc/Passover.png?rlkey=l9203u05izow16a3j80tq5jbp&raw=1" alt="Description">
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As the Great Passover approached, people from all corners of the country gathered in Jerusalem to offer their sacrifices at the Holy Temple. The once quiet temple atmosphere became festive, infused with joy, excitement, and hope.
[[Jerusalem 3]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/y3ddouifw8vyfoqhcux0s/Pharisee.jpg?rlkey=gij8vkbgw9i37vysrpi0piey4&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You brush off the news as baseless rumor, considering it unworthy of your attention. Returning to the scriptures, you continue reading without getting involved in the matter.
[[Temple 2]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ldm1i0k7ggrf6hzzilzh9/city.png?rlkey=jgar1hgdnnrwepk6buxdh642r&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You hurriedly make your way to the city gate, eager to meet the person believed by many to be the Messiah. As you reach the gate, your eyes lock onto a man named Jesus of Nazareth. He is coming into Jerusalem riding a young donkey. The crowd lays cloaks and palms on the road, shouting “the King in the name of the Lord!”
[[City Gate2]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/mc3l8ymonny0dasf0th23/miracle.png?rlkey=xwpi0d3vw675ki7licrsq1d6c&raw=1" alt="Description">
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In the crowd, you catch snippets of someone testifying about the miracles performed by Jesus of Nazareth. What will you do next?
[[Ask him for more details about Jesus|Lazarus]]
[[Return to the temple to update the High Priest|Caiaphas]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/6lahc71gu304200lve6sb/angry.png?rlkey=uv6bmngvph4pg6mjczf33lni0&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You rush back to deliver the news to the High Priest Caiaphas. As you relay the news, his eyes fill with jealous rage, and his face flushes red. He demands that you take him to Jesus of Nazareth immediately.
[[Caiaphas 2]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/6lahc71gu304200lve6sb/angry.png?rlkey=uv6bmngvph4pg6mjczf33lni0&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You return to the city gate with Caiaphas only to find out Jesus has already left. Caiaphas furiously stomps his feet on the cloaks and palm tree branches strewn across the street. He is concerned that people would now listen to Jesus over him and other temple authorities. (So the Pharisees said to one another, “You see that you are accomplishing nothing! Behold, the world has gone after him.” John 12:19)
[[Next Day]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/h5zh36hgufcnvmynkki2l/Jesus.png?rlkey=n6drrnlawlmjr14dtrajdrxef&raw=1" alt="Description">
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The next day, you and your fellow Pharisees engage in discussions about Mosaic Laws at the temple. During this mundane part of the day, you and others notice Jesus and his disciples entering the temple courts. Intrigued by the claim that he is the Messiah, you closely watch them.
[[Next Day2]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/qjmn7t23wtjulx9oobkud/temple.jpg?rlkey=8dw16bx3at6v5nvavcnmkjr8q&raw=1" alt="Description">
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The atmosphere shifts as Jesus, without warning, begins driving out merchants of sacrificial animals and money changers. He declares the Holy Temple should be a house of prayer, not a den of thieves. A powerful, otherworldly force hung in the air as Jesus unleashed his wrath upon the temple. The temple leaders appear fear-stricken, standing frozen to the spot without words.
[[Next Day3]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/69ylgf347zzy1vn59mnw3/teaching.png?rlkey=fc0pyk8w9prrb1td8rsvbb59j&raw=1" alt="Description">
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After purging the temple, Jesus proceeds to teach the crowd using the scriptures. Choose your next move.
[[Join the crowd to listen to his teaching|Listen]]
[[Leave the scene with other Pharisees|Leave]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/69ylgf347zzy1vn59mnw3/teaching.png?rlkey=fc0pyk8w9prrb1td8rsvbb59j&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You listen as Jesus warns the crowd about the temple leaders, cautioning against their emphasis on outward displays of piety. Jesus criticizes their pursuit of self-glorification over serving God and His people. He mentions their failure to fulfill the duty of caring for the poor in the community.
(“Beware of the scribes, who like walking around in long robes and who love greetings in the marketplaces and the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets, who devour the houses of widows and pray lengthy prayers for the sake of appearance.” Luke 20:46-47)
[[Temple Destruction]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/c7lenx7faqp0u8w9e7j68/Plotting.png?rlkey=6m27mmizowyw9ezeb9yxipgpp&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Swiftly, you exit the courtyard with other Pharisees, overhearing the temple leaders expressing their intent to destroy Jesus.
(“The chief priests and the scribes and the most prominent men of the people were seeking to destroy him.” Luke 19:47)
[[Temple Destruction]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/zkn0zf6f9vn077swwps39/Plot2.png?rlkey=8n2z9lporoh0xzbo46857te1z&raw=1" alt="Description">
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During the Pharisees meeting later that week, you hear that Jesus prophesied the destruction of the Holy Temple, saying not a single stone would be left standing. (“days will come in which not one stone will be left on another stone that will not be thrown down” Luke 21:6)
His advice for the people not to engage in combat but to flee when the temple is surrounded by armies further troubled many Pharisees. (“When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation has come near. Then those in Judea must flee to the mountains, and those inside it must depart, and those in the fields must not enter into it” Luke 21:20–21)
[[Temple Destruction 2]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/c7lenx7faqp0u8w9e7j68/Plotting.png?rlkey=6m27mmizowyw9ezeb9yxipgpp&raw=1" alt="Description">
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This new deeply agitates the temple leaders, fueling a murderous intent towards Jesus. (“The chief priests and the scribes were seeking how, after arresting him by stealth, they could kill him” Mark 14:1)
Choose your course of action.
[[Support the Plan to Harm Jesus|Harm]]
[[Defend Jesus|Defend]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ua79nfld4n9d30g56ujlc/defend.png?rlkey=pzuwd6iqy85jzwvfjdae7aicw&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You contribute to the plan by helping them shape a story where Jesus advised the Jews against paying taxes to the Roman Empire.
[[Pre-Trial]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ua79nfld4n9d30g56ujlc/defend.png?rlkey=pzuwd6iqy85jzwvfjdae7aicw&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Nicodemus, Gamaliel, and Joseph of Arimathea, among several elders, oppose the plan, asserting that Jesus of Nazareth had not committed any crime. You align with them in opposing the temple leaders in defense of Jesus.
[[Defend Further]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/4cximbhot46nb9yb9evd4/highpriest.png?rlkey=co65xpmf2hw28b7yygok6joav&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’ disciples, betrays him to the temple leaders, assisting in his arrest for the Sanhedrin court trial. High Priest Caiaphas abruptly summons you to his office in strict confidentiality.
[[Pre-Trial 2]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/y3ddouifw8vyfoqhcux0s/Pharisee.jpg?rlkey=gij8vkbgw9i37vysrpi0piey4&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Caiaphas pressures you to falsely testify that you heard Jesus teach Jews not to pay Roman taxes at the Sanhedrin court. You wrestle with conflicting emotions, torn between respecting the high priest and breaking the Ninth Commandment against false witness.
What will you choose?
[[Comply with his request for false testimony|False Witness]]
[[Reject his request for false testimony as it violates the Ninth Commandment|Say No]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/4eduj4k4yfox5f5re0sle/sanhedrin.png?rlkey=nffiagupv9u3pqppllpwohhz5&raw=1" alt="Description">
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The Sanhedrin Court echoes with heated arguments, voices bouncing off the walls in chaos. A sudden hush blankets the court as Jesus of Nazareth enters, drawing all eyes towards him.
[[False Witness 2]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/xju6664kax1bvv92qw08z/No.png?rlkey=sqap6c3i9vfu8x3ymzwpttge4&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You communicate to Caiaphas that you feel uneasy about providing false testimony against an innocent man. Caiaphas becomes visibly upset as you decline the request. He states that he now realizes you may not be as committed to your Pharisee career as he had initially believed.
[[Trial]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/4eduj4k4yfox5f5re0sle/sanhedrin.png?rlkey=nffiagupv9u3pqppllpwohhz5&raw=1" alt="Description">
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How will you respond?
[[Provide false testimony against Jesus|False Witness 4]]
[[Defend Jesus|Defend 2]]
[[Exit the court without giving testimony either for or against Jesus|Escape]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/bmplfgt1ax2lv34pi7sz7/false1.png?rlkey=6d9gqc65nnbaquuoggvxw286r&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You falsely claim to have heard Jesus declare that Jews should not pay taxes to the Roman Empire as he asserts his role as the King of the Jews. In a brief eye contact with Jesus, your heart sinks as you falsely testify against him. Despite the regret, fear of opposing the High Priest compels you to continue.
[[False Witness 5]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/bmplfgt1ax2lv34pi7sz7/false1.png?rlkey=6d9gqc65nnbaquuoggvxw286r&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You tell the Sanhedrin that you never heard Jesus say that Jews should not pay their taxes to the Roman Empire. You disclose that the High Priest compelled you to step forward as a false witness. Other Pharisees immediately pull you out of the courtroom.
[[Defend 3]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/sds4gyhb3wgv6b8vx593v/Escape.png?rlkey=tyhf4cjc97k1bw7lsfwosbp7c&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You quietly exit the court without providing any testimony for or against Jesus. You choose not to get further involved, uncomfortable with giving false testimony but hesitant to speak against the temple leaders.
[[Escape 2]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/bmplfgt1ax2lv34pi7sz7/false1.png?rlkey=6d9gqc65nnbaquuoggvxw286r&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Your testimony strengthens their charge of treason for which capital execution is warranted. The Sanhedrin decides to move the case to the Roman civic court, where Governor Pontius Pilate can authorize capital execution.
[[Roman Civic Court]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/2r8sz2s66ecqxnkcwfals/pilate.jpg?rlkey=to9580qejau3w45hn6w8r7olu&raw=1" alt="Description">
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As night falls, Roman Governor Pontius Pilate is getting ready for bed in his house. Suddenly, Sanhedrin, along with other Jews, show up fuming at his house in the middle of the night.
[[Roman Civic Court 2]] <img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/y3ddouifw8vyfoqhcux0s/Pharisee.jpg?rlkey=gij8vkbgw9i37vysrpi0piey4&raw=1" alt="Description">
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The very next morning, you learn that Jesus is to get crucified. You stay home to avoid the High Priest since you went against him at the court. You hear about his death on the cross and resurrection three days later.
Decide on your next move.
[[Seek out Jesus|Go to Jesus]]
[[Disregard it as a far-fetched rumor|Escape 3]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/paevahep7carr2vg9ys53/Rural.jpg?rlkey=wwz4zg8afcpb53ekcus13q538&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You escape the tumultuous conflicts surrounding Jesus among the Jews by leaving Jerusalem. You find a home in a rural farming town. The rest of your life unfolds quietly in peace.
[[Escape 4]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/3vbniofsqvxdmowwxn7yl/pilate2.png?rlkey=ivp1m0zrd97hx0a5zas35b1rq&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Upon hearing the charges against Jesus, Pilate deems capital execution unnecessary as they are unsubstantiated and poorly supported. He puts in considerable effort to persuade the Jews to agree to release Jesus.
[[Roman Civic Court 4]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/3vbniofsqvxdmowwxn7yl/pilate2.png?rlkey=ivp1m0zrd97hx0a5zas35b1rq&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Pilate receives input from the Roman-appointed Jewish ruler, Herod Antipas, who shares the view that Jesus is innocent of any capital crime. However, the Sanhedrin vehemently insists on obtaining approval for the execution of Jesus through crucifixion.
[[Roman Civic Court 5]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/xzj5rqwj68tfo10mbke79/Yelling.png?rlkey=9v57do01ncou4x2uvh53kddke&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You stand in support of Jesus, but your voice is drowned out by the loud demands of other Jews calling for the crucifixion.
[[Hand Washing]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/xzj5rqwj68tfo10mbke79/Yelling.png?rlkey=9v57do01ncou4x2uvh53kddke&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You request Barabbas to be released. Many others, except a few, including Nicodemus, Gamaliel, and Joseph of Arimathea, make the same choice.
[[Hand Washing]] <img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/szoma6aiqzjoiizb94gc1/Hand-Washing.jpg?rlkey=msp74n3nqaio9wa8yap5ivzav&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Pilate takes a basin of water and washes his hands in front of the Jews demanding Jesus' crucifixion, declaring that he will not take responsibility for this execution. He then hands over Jesus to be crucified by them.
Jesus, once again, remains silent, not defending himself against the charges.
[[Calvary Hill]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/47yb99o0daleowvv4nqb1/morning.jpg?rlkey=di4fw3lx2vdiuxgi3zvbq32ch&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Jesus is to be crucified at Calvary Hill. Would you go there this morning?
[[Yes|Go Calvary]]
[[No|No Calvary]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/y3ddouifw8vyfoqhcux0s/Pharisee.jpg?rlkey=gij8vkbgw9i37vysrpi0piey4&raw=1" alt="Description">
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On the morning of his crucifixion, you go to the Holy Temple to carry out your usual routine.
Other Pharisees, who attended the execution, later return and inform you that Jesus has died on the cross. You feel a sense of relief now that Jesus, whom you considered a distraction from the temple’s ministry to the Jews, has been removed.
[[No Calvary 2]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/v80fiujujv6adbhcxttrf/hammer.png?rlkey=5ruj5lg85tec5lj5sejinewg0&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You are standing at Calvary Hill, watching the crucifixion of Jesus. The Roman soldiers drive nails into his hands and feet, securing him to the cross. The clang of hammer strikes engulfs the air, consuming the bustling crowd's sounds in a metallic percussion.
[[Calvary 1]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ve2wllpqhvlaroq0ifl0a/Cross.png?rlkey=j0qexootqfl650uperxtautvh&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Jesus endures many hours of excruciating pain and humiliation on the cross. Then, he says, “It is finished,” and gives his soul to God before your eyes.
[[Calvary 3]]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/y3ddouifw8vyfoqhcux0s/Pharisee.jpg?rlkey=gij8vkbgw9i37vysrpi0piey4&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Several days later, you hear about his resurrection, but you dismiss it as a far-fetched
rumor.
[[Paul]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/91rlzlr0ir8qjxw330xgb/resurrection.png?rlkey=ekwhmeot1198h6sey5iimdwdp&raw=1" alt="Description">
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The surge of love and compassion you felt near the man on the cross lingers. Three days later, you hear that his tomb, once heavily guarded by Roman soldiers, is now empty.
Day after day, an increasing number of people come into the temple, sharing their encounters with Jesus, who has risen from death.
Decide on your next move.
[[Seek out Jesus|Go to Jesus]]
[[Disregard it as a far-fetched rumor|No Jesus]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/yv8b4ieoswarvgm73zzud/resurrection2.png?rlkey=sc561rqbx8xi5xtuyubzf17h3&raw=1" alt="Description">
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After hearing the news of his resurrection, you seek out Jesus, now convinced he may be the Messiah. You find Jesus sitting under an oak tree, teaching people how their sins have been forgiven through his death on the cross.
[[Go to Jesus 2]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/y3ddouifw8vyfoqhcux0s/Pharisee.jpg?rlkey=gij8vkbgw9i37vysrpi0piey4&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You dismiss the news about his resurrection as a far-fetched rumor. This rumor reaches its peak around a month later, with many individuals claiming they witnessed Jesus ascending into heaven.
The temple leaders strongly caution you and other Pharisees against believing in the news of his resurrection.
[[Paul]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/yv8b4ieoswarvgm73zzud/resurrection2.png?rlkey=sc561rqbx8xi5xtuyubzf17h3&raw=1" alt="Description">
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What will you do?
[[Become a follower of Jesus|Christian]]
[[Avoid Jesus due to fear of losing your position in the community|No Christian]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8cz3nt5qdxr5n6edq85eh/ascend.png?rlkey=0prmoxa72p4elr5ffoiotb5cm&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Jesus entrusts you with the mission to spread his teaching (the Gospel) throughout the world. He then shares his plan to prepare a place for you in Heaven. He promises to return to take you and other Christians there. With that promise, he ascends to Heaven.
[[Chrisitian 2]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/zkn0zf6f9vn077swwps39/Plot2.png?rlkey=8n2z9lporoh0xzbo46857te1z&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You avoid Jesus due to fear of losing your position in the community. The temple leaders strongly caution you and other Pharisees against believing in the news of his resurrection. Those caught in association with Jesus faced social ostracization at the temple.
[[No Christian 2]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/yxyovhl3vpia5dhd1re0e/Mission.jpg?rlkey=ng27p626tpl9ssuimlu413q6l&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You and other Christians embark on a mission trip to fulfill the divine task of spreading the gospel.
[[Ending]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/mgiezijgc437uvd9sld6x/ending.jpg?rlkey=437jazmmcck1yel7eis4vc6jd&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Thanks for playing the Holy City Interactive Story!
Keep the code below—you'll need it to jump into Part II.
"Second Coming"
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8cz3nt5qdxr5n6edq85eh/ascend.png?rlkey=0prmoxa72p4elr5ffoiotb5cm&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You quietly listen to Christians sharing the gospel at the temple. You are careful not to interact with them to protect your social standing and wealth. About a month after his resurrection, you learn that Jesus ascended to heaven with a promise to return.
[[Paul]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/g4o3amfnvf298xrcjwb55/Prayer.png?rlkey=iz3wr7ta0vvdi8ivkzrsxjc1t&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You are fervently praying at the Holy Temple. While engrossed in prayer, you suddenly sense someone standing beside you. You open your eyes and turn around to discover Saul of Tarsus, your long-time friend who studied with you under the great scribe Gamaliel. To your surprise, he reveals that he is now a follower of Christ. He describes his encounter with Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus.
[[Paul 2]]
<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ab9x5iwrt7xxzebmhz5hm/Paul.jpg?rlkey=xpv70h8gb82mm87iae9pvokgr&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You quickly take Saul to a private room. You solemnly caution him about the potential trouble discussing Jesus in this temple can bring. You share the grim examples of Deacon Stephen and Apostle James the Greater, who were martyred for sharing the gospel here.
[[Paul 3]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/y3ddouifw8vyfoqhcux0s/Pharisee.jpg?rlkey=gij8vkbgw9i37vysrpi0piey4&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Choose your course of action
[[Listen Further|Listen Paul]]
[[Tell him you are not interested|Ask Paul to Leave]]
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Paul states “God demonstrates his own love for us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Therefore, by much more, because we have been declared righteous now by his blood, we will be saved through him from the wrath. For if, while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, by much more, having been reconciled, we will be saved by his life.” (Romans 5:8–10)
[[Listen Paul 2]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ab9x5iwrt7xxzebmhz5hm/Paul.jpg?rlkey=xpv70h8gb82mm87iae9pvokgr&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You inform him that you wish to avoid further conversations concerning Jesus, as any association with him will compromise your standing in the temple community.
You politely request him to leave.
[[Revolt]]
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In an overnight discussion of scriptures with Paul, the realization that Jesus is indeed the Messiah dawns upon you. The certainty of His Messiahship empowers you with the strength and courage to relinquish your social status and wealth in exchange for the profound truth you’ve discovered.
[[Listen Paul 3]]
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Moved by conviction, you undergo baptism to be born again as a Christian. You join Saul of Tarsus’s journey to spread the message of Christ.
[[Ending]]
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Over the next 40 years, tensions between the Jews and the Roman government grew. This rise in tension sparked more pushback against Roman control and eventually triggered a rebellion. During this rebellion, the Jews successfully drove the Romans out of Jerusalem.
[[Revolt 2]]
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However, the Roman Empire hit back by seizing the entire city. Now, five months into the siege, the people in the city of Jerusalem are getting sick and dying from starvation and dehydration.
[[Revolt 3]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ekq3bnb0ycybpbrs3bxjq/rev3.png?rlkey=h2z2zzjqup48mimhkypr1rbdp&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You put up a brave fight, but a soldier cuts you down with his sharp sword. As you collapse to the ground, memories of Jesus and his prophecy on the temple’s destruction flood your mind. He warned everyone to flee to the mountains when enemies surround Jerusalem.
[[Revolt 5]]
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Now, just as he foretold, the temple is getting destroyed and burned to the ground. How could he have known?
Was it possible that he truly was the Messiah? Regret fills you - if only we had heeded his words. With these final thoughts, you close your eyes, taking your last breath.
[[Ending]]
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The Sanhedrin Court echoes with heated arguments, voices bouncing off the walls in chaos. A sudden hush blankets the court as Jesus of Nazareth enters, drawing all eyes towards him.
[[Trial 2]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/bmplfgt1ax2lv34pi7sz7/false1.png?rlkey=6d9gqc65nnbaquuoggvxw286r&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Multiple Pharisees step forward to provide their witness statements, each alleging to have seen Jesus gathering people for a rebellion against the Roman Empire.
As they take turns presenting their witness statements, a tense atmosphere fills the room. However, their testimonies quickly devolve into conflicting narratives, with glaring inconsistencies and contradictions.
[[Trial 4]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/q967fyw99kgl71zapy7yp/false2.png?rlkey=7wyubhtf1dyzpdq1s64ro5ex3&raw=1" alt="Description">
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They also assert having heard Jesus proclaiming his divinity as the God of Israel. One of the witnesses states that Jesus prophesied the complete destruction and reconstruction of the Holy Temple within three days.
[[Trial 5]]Instagram Handle: Bible_Enthusiatist
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Image Source: Freepik, Inc.<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/6lahc71gu304200lve6sb/angry.png?rlkey=uv6bmngvph4pg6mjczf33lni0&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Later, the High Priest Caiaphas notices that some temple workers are missing. He asks you about their whereabouts. You explain that they have gone to see a man named Jesus of Nazareth at the city gate. His face pale and eyes widen as he hears the name Jesus of Nazareth. Without a word, he swiftly leaves the temple.
With all these distractions, it is now hard for you to get back into reading the scriptures.
[[Next Day]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/tkqwpb2fxlobluwceiggv/Boy.png?rlkey=4r3mhqlw53ocoh81si8qxtre2&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Born into a pious family in Jerusalem, you underwent a rigorous education on the scriptures from a very early age. This upbringing shaped you into a devout Pharisee.
[[Jerusalem 2]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/y3ddouifw8vyfoqhcux0s/Pharisee.jpg?rlkey=gij8vkbgw9i37vysrpi0piey4&raw=1" alt="Description">
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As a Pharisee, you took part in preparing the ceremonial services at the temple. As you read a scripture scroll, a group of men abruptly burst into the temple, declaring loudly, “The Messiah is at the city gate!”
[[Stay at the Temple|Temple]]
[[Head to the City Gate|City Gate]]
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Your heart races as you recall the Messianic prophecy in the book of Zechariah (“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Look! Your king comes to you; he is righteous and victorious, humble and riding on a donkey, and on a male donkey, the foal of a female donkey!” Zechariah 9:9). In this very moment, Jesus is fulfilling it, riding on a donkey as he enters the Holy City of Jerusalem.
[[Miracle]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/404ew09zwiv08tkeulxsm/tomb.png?rlkey=5idn32qmokuomsb5mj08yb219&raw=1" alt="Description">
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You ask the man to share more about the great miracle he witnessed in the city of Bethany. He testifies how Jesus of Nazareth resurrected a man who had been dead for three days.
[[Next Day]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/4cximbhot46nb9yb9evd4/highpriest.png?rlkey=co65xpmf2hw28b7yygok6joav&raw=1" alt="Description">
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In response to this opposition, High Priest Caiaphas and his predecessor Annas now claim that Jesus is a traitor planning to overthrow the Roman Empire. The accusation of treason scared off others from defending him due to the fear of being labeled as traitors themselves.
[[Pre-Trial]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/4eduj4k4yfox5f5re0sle/sanhedrin.png?rlkey=nffiagupv9u3pqppllpwohhz5&raw=1" alt="Description">
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The silence shatters as temple leaders falsely accuse Jesus of blasphemy and treason. Jesus stays silent without any effort to defend himself against the charges.
[[Trial 3]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/4eduj4k4yfox5f5re0sle/sanhedrin.png?rlkey=nffiagupv9u3pqppllpwohhz5&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Despite some discrepancies in witnesses' testimonies, the Sanhedrin decides to escalate the case to the Roman civic court, where Governor Pontius Pilate can authorize capital execution.
[[Roman Civic Court]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/4eduj4k4yfox5f5re0sle/sanhedrin.png?rlkey=nffiagupv9u3pqppllpwohhz5&raw=1" alt="Description">
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The silence shatters as temple leaders falsely accuse Jesus of blasphemy and treason. Jesus stays silent without any effort to defend himself against the charges. Following that, they signal for the false witnesses to step forward and testify in the trial. You and the other witnesses exchange hesitant glances.
[[False Witness 3]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/lzotycmdlraxru2d2c93d/Death.png?rlkey=23tba7tves3p3epfjqaddckzk&raw=1" alt="Description">
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In the remaining years of your life, you persist in prayer for the promised Messiah, but your hope goes unmet. As life nears its end, the burden of the unfulfilled promise weighs heavily on your heart, and your final breath escapes as a sigh of disappointment.
[[Ending]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/q967fyw99kgl71zapy7yp/false2.png?rlkey=7wyubhtf1dyzpdq1s64ro5ex3&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Since you are not allowed to return to the court, you wait outside to follow up on what happens to Jesus. Later, you discover that the Sanhedrin is taking him to the Roman Governor to seek approval for capital execution. You swiftly follow Jesus and the Sanhedrin to the house of the Roman Governor.
[[Roman Civic Court]] <img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/79874sbrus9gjw779yzqv/night.jpg?rlkey=wg3mxqrvv3x6q7olg5uk4er3n&raw=1" alt="Description">
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As a last resort to spare Jesus' life, Pilate presents you and others with a choice: either release Jesus or Barabbas. Barabbas is a notorious Jewish criminal whose release would threaten the safety of all in the community.
What will you choose?
[[Jesus|Jesus]]
[[Barabbas|Barabbas]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/xzj5rqwj68tfo10mbke79/Yelling.png?rlkey=9v57do01ncou4x2uvh53kddke&raw=1" alt="Description">
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They bring Jesus forward, demanding him to order capital execution for the charges of treason and blasphemy.
[[Roman Civic Court 3]] <img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ve2wllpqhvlaroq0ifl0a/Cross.png?rlkey=j0qexootqfl650uperxtautvh&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Jesus is now elevated high on the cross, with the inscription “King of the Jews” displayed above his head. As you approach the cross, you hear him pleading to God for forgiveness for the people who mock and ridicule him. In the midst of suffering, he exhibits care for others—entrusting his mother to one of his disciples and promising heaven to the man hung on the cross next to him. You feel an overpowering surge of love and compassion radiating from him.
[[Calvary 2]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/91rlzlr0ir8qjxw330xgb/resurrection.png?rlkey=ekwhmeot1198h6sey5iimdwdp&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Upon closer examination, the nail marks on his hands and feet are visible. Once again, you feel a surge of love and compassion on you as he looks your way. His words are filled with love, wisdom, and power.
[[Go to Jesus 3]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ab9x5iwrt7xxzebmhz5hm/Paul.jpg?rlkey=xpv70h8gb82mm87iae9pvokgr&raw=1" alt="Description">
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Paul responds “I am not ashamed of the gospel for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16)” He then offers to share the gospel more in depth with you.
[[Paul 4]]<img id="autofit-image" src="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/phkg3ycvavin0s81wb1a0/rev2.png?rlkey=ethmqcn60e2gp2q02gyvfie89&raw=1" alt="Description">
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The Roman force eventually surges in, setting ablaze the Holy Temple and the remainder of the city.
[[Revolt 4]]
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Welcome to an interactive story set in First-Century Jerusalem. Experience life during the time of Jesus!
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