CHURCH OF ANUNCIATION KUBWA CYON PASSION PLAY SCRIP

Written By: Cedric Owuru

 CAST
1. JESUS
2. MARY
3. MARTHA
4. LAZARUS
5. 12 APOSTLES
6. SIMON THE LEPER
7. MOURNER 1
8. MOURNER 2
9. TEMPLE GUARD CAPTAIN
10. GUARD 1
11. GUARD 2
12. PRIEST 1
13. PRIEST 2
14. PRIEST 3
15. PHARISEE 1
16. PHARISEE 2
17. SADDUCESS
18. CAIAPHAS
19. ANNAS
20. MALCHUS
21. CENTURION
22. PILATE
23. PILATE WIFE
24. ROMAN 1
25. ROMAN 2
26. ROMAN 3
27. NICODEMUS
28. JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA
29. MARY MOTHER OF JESUS
30. THEIF 1
31. THEIF 2
32. PROCLAIMERS & CHILDREN
33. ALABASTER WOMAN
34. BAR MAN
35. MOB MAN
36. SERVANT GIRL
37. PASSERBY
38. BARRABAS
39. CROWD
40. COUNCIL OF SAHENDRIN
41. ROMAN LEGION
42. TEMPLE GUARDS/MOBS

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 COSTUMES/PROPS
1. ROBES AND GARMENT
2. ROMAN SOLDIERS UNIFORM
3. TEMPLE GUARD UNIFORMS
4. TABLES AND CHAIRS
5. SPEARS AND SWORDS
6. STAFFS
7. CLUBS
8. HYSSOP STICK
9. WHIPS
10. PROSTHETIC HAIR & BEARDS
11. HORSES
12. FIREWOOD
13. JUGS AND CUPS OF CLAY
14. SCARLET/PURPLE ROBE
15. CROWN OF THORNS
16. REED
17. BOWL
18. TOWEL
19. SACK CLOTHS
20. PURSE OF MONEY
21. FAKE BLOOD
22. 3 CROSS
23. BREAD AND WINE
24. VEIL
25. FAKE NAILS AND HAMMER
26. TISSUE PAPER
27. PALM LEAVES

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 ACT 1 SCENE 1
RAISING OF LAZARUS

[Lights rise on Simon’s house and Lazarus’ tomb. MARTHA & MARY are in
the house. MARY, LAZARUS, and mourners are at the tomb. JESUS and
DISCIPLES appear on moving center stage towards the mourners]
MARTHA: (she runs weeping meeting Jesus and the disciples half way) My
Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would still be alive. (Pauses as
if sorry for being vindictive) Even now, though he has died, I
know God will give you anything you ask for.
JESUS: Your brother will rise again.
MARTHA: (Not seeing the requested miracle in His reply) I know he will
rise again, in the resurrection on the last day.
JESUS: I AM the Resurrection, I AM the Life. Whoever believes in me, even
though he dies, will live. And whoever lives and believes in me will never
die. Martha, do you believe this?
MARTHA: I do Lord. I believe you are the Messiah, the Son of God come to
the world.
[JESUS leads MARTHA and the DISCIPLES to meet MARY and the other
mourners]
MARY: (she falls helplessly at Jesus feet and weeping) Lord, if you had been
here my brother wouldn’t have died.
JESUS: (Jesus Weeps with her while rising her up) Oh, Mary …….. Let’s go
to him.
[All proceed towards Lazarus's tomb]
MOURNER 1: See? He did love him.
MOURNER 2: He opened blind eyes; He could have healed Lazarus.
JESUS: (Standing authoritatively in front of the Tomb) Take the stone away!

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[Nate & Thad tries to open the tomb and Martha protests to stop them
while there is a confused murmur from the crowd]
MARTHA: Lord, he has been here four days.
JESUS: (Turning compassionately towards her) You said you believed. I
said; you will see the glory of God. (In a Loud voice) Father, I give thanks
because you hear me. I know you always hear. I say it so those present will
know You have sent Me …. Lazarus, come forth!
[LAZARUS emerges. The Crowd runs in a scanty direction apart from Jesus,
the disciples Martha and Mary ]
MARY: (Walks forward towards Lazarus after a moment of shock and
exclaims in a loud exciting voice) He lives!
[Crowd coming back together start sounding praises to God for miracle]
MARTHA: Lazarus! (Running to Lazarus and Mary, then turning back to
Jesus) Oh, Jesus!
JESUS: Remove the grave clothes, and let him go. (Turning towards Simon
Peter) rally your brothers, we need to leave Bethany and go up to Jerusalem
for the Passover

SIMON PETER: (nods in affirmation and talks inaudibly to the other

disciples)

[Crowd keeps praising and jubilating God for the miracle and leaves the
stage]

LIGHT FADES

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 ACT 1 SCENE 2
WITNESSING MOURNER
[Light rises on the 2 mourners taking centre stage discussing]

MOURNER 1: That Jesus is really powerful, I believe there is more to him

than meets the eye. I am thinking he is the great prophet Elijah that was
taken up to heaven in a great chariot of fire that has come back in these
trying times or what do you think?

MOURNER 2: My good friend, we are actually thinking alike but I don’t

feel he is Elijah, I don’t believe someone who leaves this earth to the
heavens will come back. I feel he is the prophet Moses that led our
ancestors out of Egypt. You know the ancient scrolls say his body was never
found when he went up the mountain to talk to YAHWEH

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MOURNER 1: Whoever he is we are lucky to be witnesses to the
manifestation of his miracles I can’t wait to share what we witnessed with
my family during this Passover celebration. (He tries to increase his pace
but is held back by his friend he turns and observes the worried look on his
face) My friend why is that look on your face and why are you holding me
back?

MOURNER 2: I know how excited you are to share the wonders you
witnessed during your travels even I am excited but….(he pauses looks
around and lowers his voice) this is Jerusalem and I have heard rumours
that the Pharisees and the keepers of the laws of Moses don’t like anything
concerning Jes….(he hesitate to finish the name Jesus) what I am saying is
the walls have ears be careful before you will be charged with blasphemy
and stoned to death

MOURNER 1: (Looks sarcastically and his friend and then responds) This
is the problem I always have with you what is blasphemy in what I want to
share with my family? I am only sharing stories from my travels, and you
are already analyzing things. You never told me you were a levi or a priest. I
thought you were a baker. (Temple guards on patrol enter the stage,
MOURNER 1 keeps talking in a loud voice not noticing them while
MOURNER 2 tries to signal him to stop) The truth is the truth and I
witnessed it with my 2 eyes (increases his voice) JESUS of Nazareth raised
a man who has been dead for 4 days back to life whether the keepers of the
law like it or not it doesn’t change what it is

TEMPLE GUARD CAPTAIN: (Taps MOURNER 1 from behind and he turns

in shock) I want to believe you did not utter those blasphemous words from
your lips

MOURNER 1: (talking in a shaky voice) Shalom officer is not what it

sounds like I can explain….

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TG CAPTAIN: You will explain to the high priest and the council of elders
so save your breath (in a commanding voice) Boys seize him

[Two guards seize MOURNER 1 on both sides, MOURNER 2 tries to plead

on his behalf then the captain looks at him and says) You want to join him I
have enough guards with me (MOURNER 2 quickly withdraws and step
back and leave in the opposite direction in panic]

LIGHT FADES

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 ACT 1 SCENE 3
WITNESSING MOURNER II
[Light rises on the council of elders on stage with Caiaphas the high priest
sitting on the high Stool, and the temple guards bring in MOURNER 1.
There is a general look of confusion from all the elders, but decorum is
maintained]

CAIAPHAS: (In an angry tone) Captain why have you and your guards
chosen to interrupt our meeting aren’t you supposed to be on patrol to
ensure everything is in order for the Passover as people come into the city?

TG CAPTAIN: (salutes) Shalom my high priest and custodians of the law of

Moses. I apologise for the interruption but it was a matter of urgency that I
felt could not wait (Pauses for a moment and takes a deep breath) what I
heard on patrol I don’t even have the stomach to utter it with my lips I will
let the blasphemer do the talking (He pushes MOURNER 1 forward then in
a commanding tone he says to him) Repeat the blasphemous things you said
at the city gate and be quick about it.

MOURNER 1: Shalom my high priest and keepers of the law. I have just
come from Bethany where I was mourning the death of Lazarus and
consoling his family. Many of you knew him. The man, Jesus, from Nazareth
in Galilee, came and stood before the tomb, called upon YAHWEH, and
RAISED LAZARUS FROM THE DEAD! (Audible murmur and look of disgust
can be observed from the council when he mentioned this) I was not the
only witness to this, many people from Jerusalem saw the manifestation of
his power. This was what I was talking about before the guards dragged me
here (looks defiantly at the captain while saying this)

PRIEST 1: What?! What are you talking about?!

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PRIEST 2: It cannot be true!

PRIEST 3: Never! Impossible! Let me even ask you young man Why did you
come to Jerusalem was it for the Passover or to cause trouble?

MOURNER 1: My elders I came for the Passover, I only came early

because I overheard Jesus saying to his disciples to prepare and come to
Jerusalem (More murmur from the elders then MOURNER 1 talks with
excitement) I decided to come early to spread the news to my family so that
we can be witness to his next miracle.

PRIEST 1:(angered by his last statement he spoke in a loud voice) You

fearless blasphemer! You will pay for this insolence. Guard, remove this
man and throw him in the temple prison.

ANNAS: (Interrupting) Wait, (Approaching the WITNESS) You were there,

and you believe this?

[MOURNER nods in agreement. ANNAS looks back to Caiaphas who has

been silent and still in shock]

CAIAPHAS: (shakes his head in a manner that shows he was initially lost in
thoughts) That he believes it is all that matters, true or not. (To the
MOURNER) Thank you; you may go.

[The council now murmurs loud at the verdict. Caiaphas raises his hands to
call for order]

CAIAPHAS: My elders I am happy that the passion to conserve our laws

burns deep in you all. You may not understand why I let the man go but this
is it; Our problem is JESUS and not this simpleton that fell for his cheap
tricks. So far so good all that we have heard about him are rumours and
secondhand information. You heard what this man said, Jesus and his band
of hooligans are coming to Jerusalem. My council of elders, I want you to go
out and try to witness if all these rumours they say about him are true, try

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and engage him in topics regarding the law then we can know for sure what
level of threat he is. Shalom, my elders.

ALL: Shalom

[They all disperse leaving CAIAPHAS on stage]

LIGHT FADES

ACT 2 - SCENE 2
JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM
[PROCLAIMERS, and crowd stand on either side of the stage to form a
path for Jesus to walk through bearing leaves, palms, and clothes to lay on
the floor 3 Priest pushes through the crowd to get to the front to behold
Jesus]

PROCLAIMER: Jesus is coming, it is Jesus the prophet, and Lazarus is with

Him it is true what they say that he raised the dead.
[Scattered voices from different by-standers]

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LAYERED VOICES: Who is this? Who is coming? It is Jesus the prophet of
Nazareth of Galilee! It is the man who raised Lazarus from the dead!
CROWD: Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in The Name of the Lord!
Save now! Hail, Israel’s King! Hail the Son of David! (Children’s voices
prominent. Voices are layered, they spread the leaves and clothes on the
floor as the chant praises)
PRIEST 3: (raising his voice to be heard and speaking in contempt) Master,
Reprimand your disciples!
JESUS: If my disciples keep silent, the very stones will shout aloud!
[the crowd goes ahead of the priests while they stand and deliberate]
PRIEST 2: (talking to his fellow priest) Can you imagine his response? They
are calling him a king and he doesn’t stop them.
PRIEST 1: I smell trouble all around this man come let’s follow him to see
more, I believe they are heading to the temple.
[they exist stage in the same direction as the crowd]

LIGHT FADES

ACT 2 SCENE 2
THE CONFRONTATION

[Light rises on money changers and other traders in the temple. The
audible noise of transaction from their conversation can be heard. Jesus and

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his followers walk in making a chord whip from the girdle of his garment he
angrily lashes at the merchants]

JESUS: Away from here! Take your buying and selling with you (he turns
the tables as he keeps speaking) It is written, my house shall be a house of
prayer, but you have turned it into a den of thieves. (His disciples join him)

[Devotees that came into Jerusalem from all countryside applaud his effort]

CROWD: Yes! Hossana to the son of David! Cast them out! Keep the temple
Holy

CHILDREN: (repeating what their parents said in continuous chant)

Hossana to the son of David! Hossana to the King!

[Jesus then proceeds to lay his hands on the sick and mingle with the
children. While this was going on, the council of elders observing all these
from a distance approach him]

PRIEST 1: Teacher, are you listening to what the children are saying about
you? Don’t you think is right you correct the impression they have of you?
JESUS: Yes, have you read what is written? “In the mouths of children, you
have perfected praise.” Whoever receives a child like this receives me. But
if someone causes one of these children to stumble, it would be better for
him to have a millstone tied to him and be thrown into the sea! Don’t ever
look down on the children; their angels always behold the face of God in
heaven
PRIEST 3: And what sign have you shown that we may believe in you

JESUS: Destroy this temple and I will rebuild it in 3 days.

[A general look of shock can be observed on all present especially the

council of elders some people walked out after this statement]
PRIEST 2: (In a frustrated angry tone) Can you see the confusion you are
causing? Can’t you see? Now! Let me ask you; On what authority do you
act? And who gave you this authority?

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JESUS: (Smiles mischievously and replies in a solemn but firm voice) I will
also ask you one question and if you answer Me, I will tell you by what
authority I am doing these things. What was the source of John’s baptism?
Was it from heaven or men?”
PRIEST 2: Of course, that is not hard to answer John’s baptism was
from………..(he was immediately interrupted by PRIEST 1)
PRIEST 1: We will answer your question but just give us a moment (they
cluster together and talk in a lower tone) Don’t be quick to answer his
question lest you fall into a trap.
PRIEST 2: It is easy to answer we just say from heaven…. (He is cut short)
PRIEST 3: If we say from heaven He will ask, why then did you not believe
him
PRIEST 2: Then we just say from men… (he is cut short again)
PRIEST 3: But if we say from men, we risk starting a revolt among the
people for they all regard John as a prophet. Listen let’s just say we don’t
know. (They go back to face Jesus who is busy mingling with the crowd)
PRIEST 2: We don’t know Rabbi.
JESUS: Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things
(turns back to the crowd not minding their presence)
[PRIEST 1 nudged the other priest and pressed forward to get JESUS's
attention]
PRIEST 2:(makes a gesture of respect) Great Rabbi, we know that You are
honest and seek favor from no one. Indeed, you are impartial and teach the
way of God in accordance with the truth. Please tell us Is it lawful to pay
taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay them or not?
JESUS: (heaving sigh of slight frustration) Why are you testing Me? Bring
Me a denarius to inspect. (They brought it and handed it to him) Whose
image is this? And whose inscription?
CROWD: Caesar’s

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JESUS: Then, give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.
(he turns from them and faces the crowd while they walk a little distance
away)
PRIEST 1: He is too clever (turns to PRIEST 3) why don’t you engage him
with your Sadducees doctrine you have been too quiet maybe he will say
something wrong.
PRIEST 3:(Pauses for a moment like he is lost in thoughts stroking his
beard then snaps his finger and grins mischievously) I have something lets
go back to him( they walk to meet JESUS) Teacher, we have another great
dilemma that requires your wisdom; Moses wrote for us that if a man’s
brother dies and leaves a wife but no children, the man is to marry his
brother’s widow and raise offspring for him. Now there were seven
brothers. The first one married and died, leaving no children. Then the
second one married the widow, but he also died and left no children. And
the third did likewise. In this way, none of the seven left any children. And
last of all, the woman died. In the resurrection, then, whose wife will she
be? For all seven were married to her.
JESUS: You are mistaken because you do not know the Scriptures or the
power of God When the dead rise, they will neither marry nor be given in
marriage. Instead, they will be like the angels in heaven. But concerning the
dead rising, have you not read about the burning bush in the Book of Moses,
how God told him, ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God
of Jacob’? He is not the God of the dead, but of the living. You are badly
mistaken.
[visible fury of faces of the PRIEST]
PRIEST 2: (In a frustrated tone) Since you are all-knowing, tell us Which
commandment is the greatest of all?
JESUS: (smirks as he answers) This is the most important: ‘Hear O Israel,
the Lord our God, the Lord is One. Love the Lord your God with all your
heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your

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strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other
commandment is greater than these.
[seeing they could not succeed in their mission they turned to walk away
then JESUS continued talking]
JESUS: Watch out for the scribes. They like to walk around in long robes,
to receive greetings in the marketplaces, and to have the chief seats in the
synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They defraud widows of
their houses, and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will receive
greater condemnation. (PRIEST 1 walks straight up to him maintaining eye
contact for a moment, then turns and nudges the others to walk away).
PRIEST 1: (as they walk away in a gritty tone) nobody goes home let us go
straight and report this to the high priest CIAPHAS.
PETER:(as they are walking out of the temple) Master, “Where do You want
us to prepare for You to eat the Passover? Haven’t made any plans(other
disciples made gestures in affirmation).
JESUS: True words Simon peter; (placing his hands on his shoulder) Go into
the city, and a man carrying a jug of water will meet you. Follow him, and
whichever house he enters, say to the owner, ‘The Teacher asks: Where is
My guest room, where I may eat the Passover with My disciples? And he
will show you a large upper room, furnished and ready. Make preparations
for us there James and John accompany him. When you are done meet us in
the house of Simon the leper for supper.

LIGHT FADES
ACT 2 SCENE 3
THE REPORT

[Light rises on PRIEST 1, 2 & 3 walking on stage and storming into

CIAPHAS cambers angrily PRIEST 1, & 3 seats while 2 stands and paces
angrily]

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PRIEST 2: (In a loud impatient 2 and pacing around) Malchus!, Malchus,
……where is this boy (Malchus hurriedly walks in and bows) Where is your
master (he points into the inner chambers) call him out
MALCHUS: (in a shaky voice) he clearly stated that he doesn’t want to be
disturbed at this hour and if any…….(he is cut short as PRIEST 2 moves to
strike him on the face but he shifts back).
PRIEST 2: Can’t you sense when there is fire on the mountain? Go in and
tell your master we are here before I unleash the fury of all the 12 tribes of
Israel on you.
[MALCHUS hurries to the inner chamber while PRIEST 2 keeps pacing the
other priests seat down looking dejected and angry after a while the voice
of CIAPHAS is heard as he emerges from his inner chambers]

CAIAPHAS:(walks in talking and then stops when he sees the mood of the
PRIESTS) By YAHWEH who dares disturbs me at this hour my wrath will
descend…….(changes his tone when he observes the mood) My priest why
do you look like Babylon has taken Israel into captivity for a second time.
PRIEST 2: (In an angry tone) SHALOM! My high priest, it would have been
better if Nebuchadnezzar conquered Jerusalem again, it would have been
better than what we experienced. Can you imagine that riff rat that parades
as a messiah disrupted the temple commerce?
CAIAPHAS: (shocked) What! On whose authority did he do that?
PRIEST 3: (cuts in sharply) exactly the question we asked him then he
started talking bulabalo and hullabaloo about John the Baptist.
CAIAPHAS: (turns to PRIEST 1 who has been silent but looks angry) You
haven’t spoken a word and you were supposed to lead this envoy? What
holds your tongue?
PRIEST 1: (heaving a heavy sigh and talking low) Shalom my high priest!
My silence is due to how heavy my heart is, I don’t know how to utter the
blasphemous things he said but by your bidding, I will speak; He said that
he will destroy the temple and build it back in 3 days……

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CAIAPHAS: (standing up in a shocked tone cutting him short) he said that

PRIEST 1: That is not all; he ridiculed us all in front of the people calling us
hypocrites and thieves [CAIAPHAS starts walking looking deep in thought]

PRIEST 3: One more thing the children were calling him a king in front of
roman legionaries.
CAIAPHAS: Did they hear them proclaim Him King?
PRIEST 2: They cried, “Hosanna,” and called Him the Son of David. They
might not understand.
ANNAS: (emerging from the chambers in a crooked firm voice) They will
understand! (Everywhere is quiet as he speaks) We can make sure of that,
and then use Pilate to solve this issue of the Nazarene once and for all.
(CIAPHAS turns as he hears his father inlaws voice) My son, during my era
talking against the authority of any sect be it the Sadducees, pharisees or
scribe is a death sentence to be stoned outside the city wall, this man just
spoke against all the religious sects and his fate should not be any different.
If the people will be a problem, then, will must look for a way to make the
Romans do the work for us(CIAPHAS nods in approval and ANNAS walks
back to the inner chamber)
CAIAPHAS: (goes back to the seat and becomes calmer in his countenance
but still authoritative) My Priest, you all heard the advice from my father in
law, we can’t seat back and let this ridicule continue all three of you go and
assemble the whole counsel of PRIEST and ELDERS. I don’t want a mere
representatives of the sect, I want everybody seated here later this evening.
Captain! Captain! (the temple guard captain rushes in) Go out into the city
and spread the word that anyone who can give information to the capture of
Jesus the Galilean will be highly rewarded(CAPTAIN salutes and leaves
smartly) SHALOM my priest I will await your return(The 3 priests greet
shalom and departs)

LIGHT FADES

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 ACT 2 SCENE 3
THE ANOINTING

[Light rises on JESUS and the Apostles in the house of SIMON THE LEPER
they are all having a conversation at the table]
SIMON THE LEPER: (Grinning in a delightful voice) thank you for gracing
my home with your presence rabbi.
JESUS: The appreciation is all mine my good friend(SIMON PETER and 2
the other apostles walk in)
SIMON PETER: Master! We went into the city and everything was just as
you said it will be. We have prepared an Upper room for the Passover.
JESUS: (nods in approval) well done please quickly join us as we feast
[they seat and were chatting gleefully then a woman walks in bows in
respect and greets everyone]
WOMAN: Greetings rabbi, please accept this humble present from
me(taking out an alabaster flask filled with expensive perfume she goes
down on her knees and pours it on JESUS feet. The entire room acts
shocked)

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JUDAS: (sounding a little shocked and bitter) Why this waste of perfume?
It could have been sold for over three hundred denarii and the money given
to the poor.
JESUS: (in a firm solemn voice) Judas, leave her alone; why are you
bothering her? She has done a beautiful deed to Me. The poor you will
always have with you, and you can help them whenever you want. But you
will not always have Me. She has done what she could to anoint My body in
advance for My burial. And truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached
in all the world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.
[ After this statement JUDAS walks out angrily while the apostles murmur
because of what Jesus said about burial, John finally asks him]
JOHN: (concerned tone) master, what do you mean by burial
JESUS: (putting his hands on the shoulder of JOHN while he addresses
everyone) Truly, I say to you all, everything will be clear in the end

LIGHT FADES

ACT 2 SCENE 4
THE OPPORTUNITY

[Light rises on JUDAS at a table taking wine and angrily muttering to

himself, while this was going on the CAPTAIN of the temple guard and
some men walk in talking]
CAPTAIN: (sounding anxious and concerned) Throughout my stay as a
temple guard I have never seen the council this confused, angry, and
desperate all at once.

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TEMPLE GUARD 1: Sir! I heard voices from my duty post from the inner
chambers. I am a temple guard, but I am not ashamed to say my nerves
failed me to go and investigate
TEMPLE GUARD 2: I also saw the priests storm in angrily and left in the
same manner, Sir! Please permit my boldness, can you tell us what the
issues are? If it is something we have to be alert about then let us know.
CAPTAIN: (heaves a heavy sigh) This is not something to discuss without
having drinks from the vine (he beckons to the owner of the wine shop)
Please bring us a Jar of wine, the stronger the better. (he brings a jar of
wine and pours it into the cup as the captain continues) All this confusion is
about (he looks around ) JESUS! The Nazarene (JUDAS hearing the name of
JESUS lets the cup slip from his hand in shock and pays attention)
T G 1: You mean the prophet from galilee that tore up the temple
(CAPTIAN nods)
T G 2: The same one that man we arrested in the city was talking about (he
nods again)
CAPTAIN: Yes HIM! Apparently, he has caused a lot of trouble and the high
priest say I should put out the word that anyone with information about him
to come forward…..
JUDAS:(he cuts in sharply) SHALOM! Great protectors of the temple of
Jerusalem, I couldn’t help but listen to your conversation but what will the
high priest offer someone who has such “information”(the 2 other soldiers
rush and grab him on either side).
CAPTAIN: (Looks at him in amazement and observes his tipsiness) You
must either be very drunk or very brave to admit you were listening to
confidential information(pauses for a moment) but I am in a sober mood and
you are the least of my worries(signals his boys who then leave him) now go
back to your table and mind your business.
JUDAS:(turned to go but hesitated and walked back to their table) I know
you may not believe but I am usually not like this (gathering himself and
taking a firm posture) I am Judas of Kerioth, a long-time disciple of Jesus I

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have followed him from galilee, Bethany, Capernaum Gennesaret and all
over the country. There is nothing about him I can’t tell you, so if you want
to arrest me fine you can but I know you need to deliver results to the
council so I ask again (Louder voice) WHAT WILL THE HIGH PRIEST
OFFER TO SOMEONE WHO HAS SUCH INFORMATION.
CAPTAIN:(Shocked but he doesn’t show it) I admire your courage Judas
and maybe YAHWEH is both on my side and yours. The council is having a
meeting today in the late hours. I can request for you to have an audience
with them. If what you say is true be rest assured the High priest will richly
reward you. But,(changes his tone) if I realise you are nothing but a mere
drunk who just wasted my time, I will personally ensure that you regret this
night(looks at him from head to toe again) and please clean yourself up, you
are not meeting the council like that. (JUDAS nods in affirmation)

LIGHT FADES

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 ACT 2 SCENE 4
THE CONSPIRACY

[Light rises on the council of elders seated. Murmuring can be heard as

they discuss among themselves. ANNAS & CIAPHAS walks in and the
COUNCIL stands and greets the high priest he gestures for them to take
their seat, ANNAS go and take the seat beside CIAPHAS while he stands
and address the council]

HIGH PRIEST: Council of priests and elders, keepers of the law of Moses,
great men of Israel and Judah, Pharisees Zealots, Sadducees, and Essenes
Shalom I greet you all. I called for this crucial meeting because of the
recent turn of events. Sorry if your preparation for the Passover was
disturbed but just as our forefather Israel had to wrestle all night to get his
blessings from YAHWEH, so we too need to wrestle all night to solve a great
problem that is at our doorstep. This gathering is in regards to that son of
Joseph the carpenter, JESUS the Nazarene his teachings are not favourable
to us and I want to see the end of this without having the blames of our
people on us.(he goes and sit down on his high chair)

A PHARISEE: Men of Israel, Elders of our land, in as much as we are the

custodians of our people's culture, a Pharisee like myself must fight anyone
who is destroying our tradition.

PHARISEE 2: Yes! And I will gladly join you in that fight. The teachings of
Jesus truly are rapidly destroying the history of Mosaic Law and we shall
not accept it, he has so many offenses

1. He teaches on the Sabbath day,

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2. His disciples eat without washing their hands,

3. As if that’s not enough, he claims to be the son of GOD and he is a friend

of the tax collectors, what a mess! He must be stopped and I suggest death.
(Pharisees all echoed YES in affirmation)

A SADDUCEE: Men of Jerusalem, we cannot just kill him without a trial, we

have to lay some accusations against him and we shall employ this strategy
of “DEATH” you all know that we Sadducee do not believe in the
resurrection of the dead, but that is what Jesus is teaching. I suggest we put
him on trial and instigate the people against him, then find him guilty by
hook or crook, for dead men tell no tale.

ALL COUNCIL MEMBERS: Yes! Yes!! He must die……………………

PRIEST 1: And a public shameful death for all the embarrassment he has
caused us.

ALL: Yes

NICODEMUS: Men of Jerusalem, we should take caution on how we handle

that man Jesus. For the circumstance surrounding him are mysterious, we
have to look before we leap. Again, we have no proof that he is not
righteous. I have had opportunities to speak with him and I know that in
him lies a lot of truth and wisdom. Don’t we better wait to see if he is a man
of divine holiness? How are we sure that he is not truly the messiah? He
teaches with a new spirit of love, he seeks to unite Israel to GOD; he seems
to fulfil the Old Testament prophecy. He has done nothing to deserve death,
let us leave him be, if his teachings are of GOD, it will survive but if it’s
Satan, it will crumble. A guilty conscience needs no accuser.

[lots of murmuring can be held from the council after NICODEMUS speech]

JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA: men of Israel, enough of all these, I tell you

Nicodemus has not spoken anything bad. What wrong has that man done?

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I’m not in support of the intention of your plans; please let us leave Jesus of
Nazareth alone.

PRIEST 2: (pointing fingers) I can see two of you are under his spell. What
is holy about a man who is a drunk, who wines and dines with sinners, who
pardoned a prostitute who was supposed to be stoned to death by the law of
Moses and then makes her one of his followers how are we not sure she is
not even his concubine

PRIEST 3: (in a softer tone) Joseph and Nicodemus we understand your

concerns and appreciate you for it. I just hope you are not been misled by
his “miracles”. It is very possible that the man performs all these with the
help of Beelzebub the prince of demons

PRIEST 1: You also forget that when the Messiah comes, he will redeem us
from the tyranny of the Romans, Now, let me ask the 2 of you, how can the
son of a carpenter free us from the roman rule and restore our glory? It is
obvious he is not the Messiah. I think you 2 should get your brains
examined

NICODEMUS: (stands up in anger) You are free to make your point but
don’t insult me when you do that.

PRIEST 2: (sarcastically) he was not insulting you, he was merely

describing how the real messiah should be since you have forgotten the
scriptures

[The whole council starts murmuring and becomes rowdy]

CAIAPHAS: (Screaming and talking aggressively) Silence! All of you. I

wouldn’t sit and let you turn this COUNCIL into a marketplace. (everybody
calms) Joseph and Nicodemus, now listen both of you, all you are saying is
idle talk, I the high priest in my capacity and holiness will not sit down and
watch a self-styled messiah destroy our tradition. All of you listen and listen
very well it is better for a man to die than for the whole nation to perish. So

24
instead of sitting here and bickering like women in the market place better
come up with a plan on how to capture this imposter (The CAPTAIN of the
temple guards walks in and salute while he is talking) Captain who
permitted you to interrupt us when we are having a meeting? Give me one
good reason not to strip you of your rank right?

CAPTAIN: Shalom my high priest and great council of Isreal. You gave me
a task to spread the word and find information that will lead to the capture
of Jesus the Galilean. My lord, I am pleased to inform the council I met with
one of his disciples and he is willing to help. I also brought him here with
me, with your permission I can bring him in for you to have a word with
him(audible murmur from the council)

PRIEST 1: (with concern in his voice) captain well done for the job done
but let me ask you, do you know this man before now, how sure are you that
the council can trust him?

CAPTAIN: (salutes) I don’t know him before this evening but I don’t believe
a man will be willing to risk his life if he has nothing to gain from it. I have
already interrogated him and told him if he is not who or what he says that
he is, he will wish that his forefathers never left slavery in Egypt

CAIAPHAS: Well done captain summon him in (the CAPTAIN goes out and
brings JUDAS in with him while NICODEMUS, & JOSEPH OF ARIMETHEA
gets up and leave the council) Young man who are you and state your
purpose.

JUDAS: Shalom! My elders

ALL COUNCIL MEMBERS: shalom peace be with you.

JUDAS: My name is Judas of Kerioth popularly known as Judas Iscariot. I

know you want the rabbi Jesus. Tell me how much you are willing to offer
for his capture.

25
PRIEST 1: Young man hope you understand the gravity of what you are
saying and that you are not here to trick

JUDAS: I won’t go through this struggle if I don’t understand what I am

doing (murmur from the council CIAPHAS signals for order)

CAIAPHAS: give us a moment (JUDAS is escorted out by the captain) What

do you think should we trust him?

PHARISEE: I think it is a trap to make the council look bad let's not do this.
We the Pharisees are not in support

SADUCCEE: Do we have any other solution on ground? I say we go with

him. We the Sadducees support that we work with JUDAS

[visible division as pharisees and sadducees and other sects contemplate

working with JUDAS, ANNAS arise to speak everyone keeps quiet]

ANNAS: (In a stern voice) One of the reasons that Israel won the battle of
Jericho was that we had an ally from the inside. Now let me ask you all, how
many of you know what Jesus looks like, how many of you know when he
will not be walking with his multitude that will defend him because they
think he is the Messiah? (raises his voice) NONE OF YOU know but that
man out there knows. If there is no enemy within the enemy outside can’t
win. The enemy within Jesus camp is Judas and the enemy of our enemy is a
friend. Captain bring him in (he takes his seat)

CAIAPHAS: (with a pretentious smile) Judas my boy we have heard your

request and the council of elders will offer you 15 pieces of silver.

JUDAS: No! 50…50 pieces of silver

{The council burst into laughter]

CAIAPHAS: Judas you are really funny but I get it, you want to push a hard
bargain I respect that let's make it 20 pieces of silver.

26
JUDAS: No still too small, I can be considerate and make it 40

CAIAPHAS: (a little frustrated) don’t be greedy young man and don’t insult
the generosity of the council 20 is a fair amount.

JUDAS: I am not insulting the council, but you don’t understand the level of
risk I am taking. It is apparent that you don’t want him as badly as you
think. Sorry to have wasted your time, let me take my leave (turns to leave)

ANNAS: Young man, will you turn your back on your fathers? we are still
talking and haven’t finalized. Moreover, what's the point of going through
all this troubles just to walk away now? The high priest is a generous man
and I believe he will reconsider(turns to CAIAPHAS) my son, we may not get
an opportunity like this again lets not waste it

CAIAPHAS: (Sighs deep) we shall offer you thirty pieces of silver that is a
fair bargain you are helping your nation to track down a religion saboteur,

JUDAS: (smiling) that is fair, where is the money (CIAPHAS summons

MALCHUS whispers to him, he disappears into the inner chamber and
reappears with a purse)

CAIAPHAS: (flinging the purse) here is your 30 pieces of silver as promised

now tell us where and when you will offer him up to us.

JUDAS: (talking as he picks the coin from the ground) During the pass-over
feast, he will be in the garden of Gethsemane which is where he uses to
pray. I will lead you there, the man I shall kiss is the one, seize him and lead
him away under guard.

CAIAPHAS: thank you Judas for your patriotism (Faces the captain)
Captain! You have heard all that he said rally your guards and you Malchus
rally a small mob as well. You both should make sure that everyone is ready
to follow Judas when the time is right. I don’t want any mistakes am I clear.

CAPTAIN/MALCHUS: No objection sir.

27
CAIAPHAS: the die is cast! No one is stopping us when he is arrested. We
shall reconvene. SHALOM great council of Israel.

ALL: Shalom high priest

LIGHT FADES

ACT 3 SCENE 1
LAST SUPPER

[Lights up on the upper room, JESUS and disciples already present. JESUS
takes a bowl & towel & washes the feet of his DISCIPLES, JUDAS enters
after the scene is in progress]
PETER: (As soon as he knows it’s his turn) You? Lord? Washing my feet?
JESUS: You do not understand, but you will.
PETER: But, I can’t let You do this!
JESUS: If I do not wash you, you will have nothing with me.
PETER: Lord? Then wash my hands and head as well!
JESUS: You have been washed, only your feet were not. (Rising, addressing
all) Now, you are clean, though not every one of you. Do you know what I
have done? You call me your Teacher and Lord, indeed that is who I am.
Since, then, your Lord has washed your feet, you should wash each others’
feet. I have done this as an example, you must do the same.
JESUS: Now, I must tell you something before it happens so you will believe
in me when it does. It is written, “He who eats with me has lifted his heel
against me.” (Pause) I say now, in truth, one of you here with me shall
betray me.
ANDREW: (After a pause) Which of us? Is it me?
NATHANIEL: Could it be me?

28
THADDEUS: Or me?
SIMON: Is it me?
PETER: [stands and beckons to John] John, ask him who he means.
JOHN: Who is it, Lord?
JESUS: It is the one I will give this piece of bread.
JUDAS: Lord! Is it me?
JESUS: You have said it. Now, quickly, do what you are set to do!
[JUDAS leaves with the apostles murmuring]
JESUS: (Blessing the bread) Blessed are You, Lord God, King of the World.
Who has given this bread to eat. Take, each of you, and eat all of it. This is
my body, broken for you. (Blessing the cup) Blessed are You, Lord God, King
of the World, our Father, Who has given THIS cup to drink. Take, all of you,
and drink from it. It is the cup of the new covenant in my blood, poured out
for the forgiveness of sin. Whenever you do this, remember me. I will only
be with you a little while longer, and where I am going, you cannot come.
So, I give you this new command; love one another as I have loved you. If
you do this, everyone will know you are my disciples.
PETER: Where are you going, Lord?
JESUS: Peter, you cannot go with me now, but you will follow, later.
PETER: But why can’t I go now? I will lay down my own life for you.
JESUS: Would you, Peter? Truly, I tell you, before the rooster crows, you
will have denied me three times. Do not let your heart be troubled, Believe
in God, and me. There are many rooms in my Father’s house, and I am
going to prepare a place for you. Then I will come back to take you to be
with me. You already know the Way to where I am going.
THOMAS: Lord, we do not know where you are going, so how do we know
the way?
JESUS: I Am the Way, the Truth, the Life. No one can come to the Father
unless they come through me.
PHILIP: Lord, if we could see the Father, it would be enough.

29
JESUS: Philip, do you not know Me, after so long? He that sees Me, sees
the Father. The Father lives in me and does His works. Truly, anyone who
believes in Me will do these same works and also greater works because I
go to the Father. Peace I leave with you; I give you My peace I have told you
these things before they happen so that when you see them, you will
believe, I cannot talk much longer with you. The prince of this world is
coming, and he has nothing in me, but the world must be shown that I obey
and love the Father. Rise, we must be going. Yes, we must be going.
(singing hymns they depart for the mount of olives)

LIGHT FADES

ACT 3 SCENE 2
THE PARADE

[Light rises with JUDAS hurriedly walking but looking around towards the
other end of the stage is the T.G CAPTAIN]
JUDAS: (catching his breath and talking) They are in the garden there is no
time we need to move now he is only going to be with the 12 we need to(cut
him short)
CAPTAIN: Calm down Judas, and speak properly
JUDAS:(slows down his speech) Jesus is in the of Gethsemane as we speak
he doesn’t have any multitude so now is the time to act.

30
CAPTAIN: (blows his horn and calls for army parade) Valient Temple
Guards of Isreal and Judah(turns to look at the mob MALCHUS brought)
and loyal youths of Isreal we are going to apprehend that Imposter called
Jesus of Nazareth by the direct orders of the High priest himself. There
shall be no room for errors of any sort. Surround them in the garden and
when JUDAS identifies him (pointing to soilder 1 and 2) grab him. Am I
understood
GUARDS /MOB: Sir yes Sir.
CAPTAIN: Now move out.

[lead by JUDAS they exit the stage]

LIGHT FADES

ACT 3 SCENE 3
RUMBLE IN THE GARDEN

[Light rises on JESUS leading his disciples to the garden of gethsemanes]

JESUS: Simon peter, James, John, come with me the rest of you stay here
but watch and pray.

31
JESUS: (after walking a distance away from the others) My soul is
consumed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with
Me

[Jesus moves away to pray the 3 disciples try to stay awake and pray but fell
asleep]

JESUS:(distressful tone) My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from

Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will. (Jesus went back and found the three
disciples sleeping)

JESUS: Why is it that you cannot watch with me even for an hour? Keep
watch with me so that you won’t fall into temptation because the spirit is
willing but the flesh is weak. So keep watch.

[So he went back to pray the disciples try to stay awake but fall asleep
again]

JESUS: My Father, if this cup cannot pass unless I drink it, may Your will
be done.

[he goes back to the disciples and finds them sleeping and decides to leave
them alone and then goes to pray for a third time. As he prays an Angel
appears to give him comfort]

ANGEL: receive the consolation from heaven, deliver the will of the father
(3 times)

[JESUS goes back to his disciples and said]

JESUS: Are you still sleeping and resting? (disciples get up hurriedly) Look,
the hour is near, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
Rise, let us go! See, My betrayer is approaching (they walk back to join the
rest).

[The soldiers & Mob led by JUDAS enter the scene. The soldiers surround
them on every side. JUDAS walks forward to JESUS]

32
JUDAS: (kissing him) Greetings Rabbi

JESUS: Do you betray the Son of Man with a kiss? (Walking forward to the
mob) who are you looking for?

GUARDS/MOB: Jesus of Nazareth

JESUS: I am He (all soldiers fell down the CAPTAIN bounces back up

quickly from the ground)

CAPTAIN: (shouting and kicking them) Get up all of you

JESUS: I ask again who are you looking for?

CAPTAIN: Jesus of Nazareth

JESUS: I have already told you I am He if you are looking for me, Let these
others go (as a soldier was about arresting Jesus one of the disciples
shouts)

DISCIPLE: Lord should we strike with the sword?

[before Jesus could reply peter brought out a sword and cut off the ear of a
MALCHUS who falls shouting, the soldiers immediately turn their attention
to peter tackling him to the ground simon peter keeps struggling with the
sword in his hand. MALCHUS keeps rolling on the ground screaming in
pain. Jesus grabbed his ear and fixed it back saying]

JESUS: Simon Peter put your sword back in its place, For all who draw the
sword will die by the sword (at this point PETER drops his sword). Are you
not aware that I can 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 this way (MALCHUS who was
now healed rises with shock to his feet, the soldiers and the mob are also in
shock at what happened and stand staring, JESUS addresses them)
Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest Me as you would an
outlaw? Every day I sat teaching in the temple courts and you did not arrest

33
Me But this has all happened so that the writings of the prophets would be
fulfilled

CAPTAIN: (Cutting him short) Of what business is that to us arrest him(two

soldiers grab JESUS and put chains on him. All the disciples disperse in
different directions, MALCHUS still in shock walks behind the soldiers
touching his ears. PETER follows them from a distance)

LIGHT FADES

ACT 4 SCENE 1
I DON’T KNOW HIM

[Light rises on the soldiers dragging JESUS to the courtyard of CAIAPHAS.

The CAPTAIN & MALCHUS goes into his chambers while the soldiers stay
in the courtyard with JESUS. PETER follows closely behind and enters the
scene. As MALCHUS & the CAPTAIN enters they meet ANNAS strolling in
the council chambers.]

CAPTIAN: (salutes) Shalom Rabonni We have captured the imposter.

ANNAS: Good Job & how many of His followers did you take?
CAPTAIN: There were only a few and they will not do anything; Jesus told
them not to.
ANNAS: And why is it you believed Him? Word will get out now; you should
have followed orders.
MALCHUS: We could have but one of Jesus’ disciples began to attack,
cutting off my ear. (Removing

34
helmet so all can see) Jesus stopped him and…healed me. They will not fight
because even when they could attack he told them not to and they obeyed
ANNAS: (scratching his beard) Indeed.... I see but we need to make sure
things go according to plan. (turning to Malchus) I have one more task, rally
up your mob and more people on our side, in case things want to play out
differently, they will be our fallback plan the council is about to meet I will
go in and have a consultation with my son inlaw before we meet (turning to
the CAPTAIN) when is time bring in the imposter. (they both bow and exit).

[in the courtyard JESUS is taunted by the soldiers while peter warms
himself at a fire near by]

GUARD 1: (blindfolding JESUS and striking him) great prophet prophecy

who hit you.

GUARD 2: (falling to the ground) look at me I am dying raise me from the

dead

[As PETER is warming himself at the fire one of the men who was part of
the mob recognizes him]

MOB MAN: (straining his eyes) Were you not with him in the garden? You
look like the person that attacked Malchus

PETER: I am sorry you must be mistaking me for someone else.

[A short moment later, a SERVANT GIRL walks into the courtyard on seeing
peter she approaches]

SERVANT GIRL: Are you not one this man’s disciples? I have seen you
with him in the temple on the sabbath
[hearing this the soldiers rushes to apprehend him]
PETER: Woman, I do not know Him. You don’t know what you are

GUARD 1: Better be telling the truth for a friend of an enemy is also an

enemy.

35
 [A PASSERBY spotting PETER goes to him]

PASSERBY: You must be one of his! You are a Galilean!

PETER: Do you think I know every preacher in Galilee! I do NOT!
PASSERBY: You’re accent give you aways (to the Guard) He is one of them.
One of that man’s disciples!
PETER: I do not know this man you speak of. I swear it! I know nothing.
Are you trying to get me killed? I swear I do not know Him!
[Rooster crows]
PETER: (Looking at Jesus) Oh, no! Oh, my Lord, no, NO! (He weeps and
leaves the scene)

LIGHT FADES

ACT 4 SCENE 2
36
 JESUS BEFORE THE HIGH PRIEST

[Shortly after the denial the CAPTAIN walks to where JESUS and his men]

CAPTAIN: Stop the taunting the council are already seated. Bring him in to
stand trial.

[they enter the council chamber the entire council is seated there is a
visible expression of delight on their faces]

CAIAPHAS: (walks up to JESUS and chuckles menacingly) we have you

now nothing will save you from us (goes back to his seat)

CAIAPHAS: Jesus of Nazareth Son of Joseph, you stand trial before the
council because reports reaching us are that you have desecrated the
mosaic laws of Moses. We even hear Your disciple openly hail you as King.
You do not discourage this; on the contrary, you have publicly defended
them. What have you told them in private? Can you explain this “Kingdom of
Heaven: You preach? What defense do you have?
JESUS: I have spoken openly in the synagogues and Temple courts where
all Jews come to be taught. Why are you asking me when you could ask the
ones who have heard me?
[CAPTAIN steps up.]
CAPTAIN: (Slaps JESUS) Is that the way to answer the high priest?
JESUS: If I am wrong, show the evidence. If not, then why am I punished?
ANNAS: If you will not talk, we will hear witnesses (He remains silent)

CAIAPHAS: Very well then (standing up) We will now hear testimony from
those who have heard Him firsthand.
PRIEST 3: (Rises and is acknowledged by CAIAPHAS) We were in the
synagogue on the Sabbath, as is our custom. Jesus of Nazareth was also
present, and before us, healed a man whose hand was deformed.
CAIAPHAS: In the synagogue, on the Sabbath?
[JOSEPH and NICODEMUS enter as PRIEST 3 is speaking]

37
PRIEST 3: Yes! He has made it a point to call healing and deliverance His
"work” therefore, He “works” on the Sabbath!
JOSEPH: (Joseph cuts him short) If there was a miracle, it had to be the
hand of God!
PRIEST 2: God? God? Have you forgotten that Satan does signs and
wonders?
PRIEST 4: He heals and delivers in the name of demons!
PRIEST 1: Even the prince of demons!
NICODEMUS: And you heard Him call upon Satan?
PRIEST 3: Of course not!
JOSEPH: Then why did you say it?
[Agitated Crowd noises]
CAIAPHAS: Order! Order! (turning to JOSEPH & NICODEMUS) You must
wait to be recognized before speaking!
SCRIBE: Call witnesses!
PRIEST 1: (Stepping forward & acknowledged by CAIAPHAS) Jesus of
Nazareth has not only taught in outlying synagogues, but he has also
spoken openly in our own Temple courts. Many of you here were present
when he threatened to tear down our Temple!
[PRIESTS nod & acknowledge it as truth.]
WITNESS 1: (Stepping up & being recognized) I heard Him say, “I will
throw down this Temple made with human hands. And, in three days I will
build another not made with hands.”
WITNESS 2: He said, “I can pull down the Temple of God and rebuild it in
three days.” What took our ancestors 40 long years to build
WITNESS 1: That is what he said!
NICODEMUS: (Stepping up & being recognized) Is this supposed to be
reliable testimony? He said He would ‘build another Temple not made with
hands,” clearly symbolic statement. If that was so serious, it should have
been addressed then, not now. I have followed this man’s ministry for these

38
three years. I believe He is a man of integrity, honoring God Whom He calls
His Father. Indeed, He is Father to us all!
CAIAPHAS: (Getting an idea from NICODEMUS’ last line, silences all and
steps up to NICODEMUS) Honoring God in truth while obeying the law of
Moses is the heart of our religion. You and Joseph should know this more
than anyone
JOSEPH: Now I understand why we didn’t get the invite for this trial. It is
clear our opinion is just like chaff in the wind (tapping NICODEMUS they
both stand up and leave the council)
CAIAPHAS: (talks to JESUS) Do you have anything to say concerning what
has been…witnessed?
[JESUS does not answer turns away]
CAIAPHAS: You will not answer me. Then, in the Name of Almighty
YAHWEH (raises his hand and staff to Jesus) I place you under oath. Are
You the Christ, the Son of God?
JESUS: (turns to face him) I AM! And you will see the Son of Man seated on
the right hand of the Almighty God!
[CIAPHAS drops his staff in shock, and he is visibly shaking]
ANNAS: Blasphemy!
[CAIAPHAS tears his garment and screams blasphemy.]
CAIAPHAS: He has claimed to be God! You all heard him, what other
witness do we need, what does he deserve
COUNCIL/MOB: (screaming) Death!
[CAIAPHAS walks forward strikes Jesus and spits on him]
CAIAPHAS: (To the CAPTAIN) Take Him to Pilate (the soldiers and crowd
bundles JESUS out while the council seats back)

LIGHT FADES

39
 ACT 4 SCENE 3
LATE REMORSE
[JUDAS walks into the chambers of CAIAPHAS still seated with the council]

CAIAPHAS:(laughs callously on sighting him) Judas the man kerioth Why

have you come? Everything went well, just as expected Yes?
PRIEST 3: maybe he came to celebrate with us

JUDAS: I didn’t come here for any celebration Whose “expectations” were
met. It was not meant for it to go this far, you were only supposed to
question him about his teachings and after that you let him go.
CAIAPHAS: We did not know where the questioning would go or what
direction His explanation would take him. You all heard him, He said He
was the Christ; the Son of God, before the whole council! That was the end
of any explanation! Pilate will condemn just one person, instead of all, and
our nation will be safe! And you, my boy is to thank for that

40
JUDAS: You mean your "profit" from the temple commerce and all those
activities JESUS interrupted will be safe
ANNAS: (in a solemn tone) Young man it is easy for you to point the
accusing fingers but you are the one with the silver still in your
hands(laughs) if I remember correctly you wanted up to 50 pieces of silver.
JUDAS: (Breaking down and wailing loudly) in my blood-covered hands!
Innocent blood! Innocent blood! I have sinned by betraying innocent blood,”
he said.
[the whole council laughs]
PRIEST 1: What is that to us? “You bear the responsibility.” You earned it I
advise you to take the money and enjoy the rest of the Passover (all the
council members laugh while JUDAS flings the purse at them and leaves the
chambers wailing)
CAIAPHAS: (Picking up the money)It is unlawful to put this into the
treasury since it is blood money. So what do we do with it?

PRIEST 2: since this JESUS started his ungodly teachings he has brought a
lot of phonecians and gentiles into our holy city. I suggest we buy a field
and save ourselves the stress of where to bury them when they die

CAIAPHAS: I like that idea. Since they are not Jews burying them in such a
field bought with blood money will not defile them. (laughs) blood money
equals a field of blood (they all laugh at the joke). My priest and elders let
us make haste to Pilate to ensure we are done with this matter. (they exist)

LIGHT FADES

41
 ACT 4 SCENE 4
TRIAL BEFORE PILATE

[The crowd led by CAIAPHAS storms into Pilate's courtyard with screams of
“he must die” the roman soldiers observing the unrest come and stand
guard in front of the door leading into the Palace. The ROMAN
CENTURION who is the commander of the roman legion in Jerusalem steps
out to address them then CAIAPHAS raises his hand for them to stop]
CENTURION: On what account have you brought a mob to the palace of
the governor Caiaphas?

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CAIAPHAS: (looking at him with a bit of anger) Watch your tongue soldier
and address me with respect. I don’t have any business with you, my
business is with the governor. Tell him that CAIAPHAS the high priest
“DEMANDS” to see him.
CENTURION: (chuckles) you? Demand to see the governor? Interesting
and if I don’t do that what will happen?
[CAIAPHAS smiles and raises up his staff and the crowd starts shouting “he
must die” he raises it again and they keep quiet]
CAIAPHAS: I believe you and I both know the answer to that question.
[the centurion walks away angry the crowd resumes the screaming after a
moment PILATE emerges with a frown on his face, CAIAPHAS signal the
crowd to be silent]
PILATE:(Shouting) CAIAPHAS to what do I owe this sort of nuisance at
such early hours of the morning?
CAIAPHAS: (making a false bow) My Governor we brought this
troublemaker (pointing to Jesus) so that you can deal with him
PILATE: (cutting him short) on what ground? what has he done?
CROWD: If he was not an evildoer, we won’t have brought him to you
CAIAPHAS: We have living proof and witnesses to the rancour he has
caused
PRIEST 1: (steps out) We believe He is a danger to the peace of Rome as
well as our own Nation This man encourages all his followers against Rome
in matters of taxes and rule.
PRIEST 2: That’s not all, it has become more than that. He has proclaimed
Himself our Messiah, our King defying the sovereignty of CAESAR.
(Pointing to the centurion) you and your troops witnessed it some days back
when he came into the city and they were hailing him as a king from the
bloodline of David.
PILATE:(looking at Jesus) Are you the king of the Jews?
JESUS: The words are yours.

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PILATE: The words are mine. Yes, indeed they are. What an extraordinary
reply (addressing the crowd) Citizens of Israel and Judea If this man has
broken your traditions, judge Him yourselves, by your own Law.
CROWD: By our own laws we are also not allowed to put any man to death
PILATE: (shocked) DEATH? You wish to put this man to death over those
matters you’ve
accounted?
CAIAPHAS: That is our desire, his teachings have caused discontent among
the people all through Judea. It started in Galilee and has spread as far as
this city.
[At this statement PILATE walks into the inner chamber and orders his
CENTURION to bring JESUS in]
PILATE: (To JESUS) I ask again are You the King of the Jews?
JESUS: Is that your own idea, or have others suggested it to you?
PILATE: What kind of answer is that? You speak in riddles. Am I a Jew that
I should be concerned with such things? No, your own nation and their
priests and elders have brought you before me. I repeat; what in the world
have you done?
JESUS: My kingdom is not of this world; if it were, my servants would fight
to prevent My arrest by the Jews. But now, my kingdom is not of this realm
PILATE: Interesting, you are a king then
JESUS: You say that I am a king, for this reason, I was born and have come
into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth
listens to My voice.
PILATE: Truth? What is truth? (JESUS remains silent for a moment then
pilate orders one of the soldiers to take him out. He turns to the
CENTURION) What do you make of all this?
CENTURION: (Salutes) Sir! The crowd does seem to think He is sent by
God, a “Messiah” if you
would, but I have not seen Him take the role of King. In addition, when I
was passing by their temple, I heard Him tell the priests to pay what Caesar

44
required. Honestly, if you ask me I think the priests do not care for their
Law as much as they envy his popularity.
PILATE: (breaths heavily) Thank you for your honest opinion you may leave
(CENTURION leaves while PILATE paces about in his chambers for a
moment then observes his wife have been standing and observing him)
WIFE: I believe you are troubled by all of this.
PILATE: Angry is more like it! I hate being used as a pawn by those I am
supposed to rule! They expect me to join them!
WIFE: (in a soft tune and rushing to hold his hands) You cannot! Pilate,
please! Surely you don’t believe them! Jesus is innocent!
PILATE: I believe the charges are false. But, why are you acting this way?
Is there something more? You believe he is innocent; do you believe in Him?
WIFE: I have seen Him in my dreams, quiet and strong... suffering. Can you
free Him? You must free Him. I believe the gods gave me the vision of him
in dreams for a reason. Honestly, I have not been able to sleep.
PILATE: don’t worry my dear I have a plan (pecks her on the forehead and
walks out to the crowd)
PILATE: (talking to the centurion) Tell your boys to bring out Barabbas
[BARABBAS is brought out. Immediately the elders see him they start
talking]
ANNAS: (to CAIAPHAS) My son, I know the game Pilate wants to play, He
will want to release a prisoner for the feast as the Romans always do, and
Jesus’ followers may cry out for Him. Spread the word among the crowd for
Barabbas to be released. (The PRIEST and ELDERS start agitating the
crowd)
CENTURION: Silence in the presence of the governor. (Everywhere calms)
PILATE: Citizens of Israel This man, Jesus, has been brought to me by your
priests and charged with rebellion against the authority of Rome. I have
questioned Him and found no grounds for the charges against Him certainly
nothing worthy of death. As it is custom at this feast, I am permitted to

45
release one prisoner to you should I release JESUS the king of the Jews, or
Barabbas the notorious criminal.
CAIAPHAS:(Shouts) NO! not this man but Barabbas
CROWD: Yes Barabbas, Barabbas, Barabbas
CENTURION: Silence
PILATE: but Barabbas is a criminal, he has caused a lot of trouble and you
pick him over Jesus? So what do you want me to do with the king of the
Jews
CROWD: Crucify him Crucify him
PILATE: OK! Release Barabbas.
[soldiers release Barabbas and he storms out screaming]
BARABBAS: I AM FREE!!!
PILATE: (turns to the CENTURION) tell your boys to scourge him. Make it
look terrible maybe they will change their mind.
[ Roman soldiers take JESUS, tying him to the pillar they whipped him.
After the scourging, A scarlet/purple robe is put on him, a reed in his right
hand, and a crown of thorns]
ROMAN SOLDIERS: (laughing) Hail king of the Jews.
[The CENTURION who was observing left and went to whisper to PILATE]
PILATE: Citizens of Israel, I am bringing him out to you to let you know
that I find no basis for a charge against him (CENTURION brings JESUS to
pilate) here is the man
CROWD: Crucify him, Crucify him
PILATE: (SCREAMING) come on look at him, is this not punishment
enough? If you so badly want him crucified, you take Him and crucify Him
for I find no basis for a charge against Him
CAIAPHAS: We have a law, (turning to the crowd), and according to that
law….
CROWD: He must die because He declared Himself to be the Son of God

46
PILATE: (pulling JESUS inside his Chambers) Where are You from (JESUS
keeps quiet) Do You refuse to speak to me? Do You not know that I have the
authority to release You and the authority to crucify You?”
JESUS: (looking up in a feeble but firm voice) You would have no authority
over Me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore, the one who
handed Me over to you is guilty of greater sin.
CROWD: (Shouting from outside) Governor, if you release this man, you are
no friend of Caesar. Anyone who declares himself a king is defying Caesar
[Pilate goes out with Jesus]
PILATE: Here is your King!
CROWD: Away with Him! Away with Him! Crucify Him!
PILATE: Shall I crucify your King?
HIGH PRIEST: We have no king but Caesar.
PILATE: (to the CENTURION) tell my maid to bring me my stool of
judgment, a bowl of water, and a towel (PILATE seats on his tool, washing
his hand he says) Citizens of Israel, let it be known to all that I am innocent
of this man’s blood, you bear the responsibility.
CROWD: Let His blood be on us and our children
[CENTURION and other Soldiers take JESUS to be crucified. Station of the
cross starts and actors improvise their act at the different stations]

LIGHT FADES

ACT 5 SCENE 1
THE FOOT OF THE CROSS

[ The soldiers take the from JESUS, then strip off his garment]
ROMAN 1: Let’s divide these things!
ROMAN 2: There’s nothing much here to divide!
ROMAN 3: Wait! Let me see that (examines it) No seams! It’s worth more
than all the rest!
ROMAN 1: Don’t cut it! We’ll throw for it.

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ROMAN 2: The winner takes it; the others divide the rest. (throwing dice
on the floor) YES! I win hahahahaha.
[lying JESUS on the cross they Nail him to the cross. After the 11th station
is recited, action begins again, the cross is raised and CAIAPHAS sees, the
inscription “INRI” and goes angrily to the captain]
CAIAPHAS: Soldier, what false inscription is this(pointing), the inscription
should be this my “claims” to be the king of Jews and not what you have
here
CENTURION: (smirking) High priest what pilate has written, he has
written, if you hate it that much, you can climb up and bring it down
yourself.(CAIAPHAS walks angrily away)
ANNAS: Bother yourself no more about a stupid inscription. Look the deed
has been done and that is what is important.
[the PRIEST take turns to mock JESUS]
PRIEST 1: You said you were The Son of God; if You are, come down from
the cross!
PRIEST 2: Are You our King? Come down from there and we will believe!
PRIEST 3: He has saved others; why can’t He save himself?
PRIEST 1: Why won’t God rescue Him, if He is God’s Son?
SADDUCEES: You who are going to destroy the temple and rebuild it in
three days, come down from the cross and save Yourself
JESUS: Father, forgive them! They do not know what they do!
THIEF 1: Are you ok, they mock you, ridicule and yet you ask for their
forgiveness. Are You really the Messiah? Then save yourself...and us.
THIEF 2: Have you no fear of God? You are under the same sentence as
He, for it is plain justice. We are paying the price for our misdeeds, but this
man has done nothing wrong. Jesus, when You come into Your kingdom.
JESUS: I tell you the truth. Today, you will be with me in Paradise. Eloi,
Eloi, lema sabachthani? Pharisees: Behold, He is calling Elijah Leave Him
alone. Let us see if Elijah comes to take Him down.
[JOHN his apostle approaches the cross with his Mother]

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ROMAN 1: Hey stop there where do you think you are going
JOHN: I am here with his mother, he would love to see him one last time.
ROMAN 1:(looks at the 2 of them for a moment) You may proceed
[Reaching the foot of the cross mary throws herself on the floor weeping]
JESUS: Mother, behold your son! Son, behold your mother
ROMAN 1: Okay time to leave(chases Mary and John)
JESUS: I … I am thirsty.
[Soldiers offers him a vinegar on hyssop stick]
JESUS: (With a loud voice) It is finished! ……. Father! Into Your Hand, I
Commit my Spirit (takes heavy breath and bows head)!
[Darkness covers the sky after JESUS breathes his last. CENTURION talks
to his boys]
CENTURION: We don’t have all day. Break their legs so that we can leave
this place
ROMAN 2: (breaks the leg of the other 2 and pauses when he reaches
JESUS) This one is dead.
CENTURION: (Tossing him a spear) Make certain.
[ROMAN 2 pierces the side then fall on his knees]
CENTURION:(solemn and shocking voice) This was indeed a sign. Truly, he
was the Son of God.
[JESUS is taken down and laid in MARY’S arms. All the women are with her
alongside JOHN, PETER & JAMES. After the 13th station JOSEPH OF
ARIMATHEA & NICODEMUS enters the stage. They tap the CENTURION]
CENTURION:(frustrated tone) By Jove, tell me what more do you people
want he is dead as you wanted why do you stress me?
NICODEMUS: Relax soldier we come in peace
JOSEPH: (handing him the note) We have permission from pilate to give
him a proper burial
CENTURION: (Reading the note) This is authentic, you may proceed. I will
tell my boys to help you.
PETER: No need he is our Master we will take care of it.

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CENTURION: Hmm, Okay do as you, please.
[wrapping the body of JESUS, they carry him and exit]
FIN

50