As Episode 5 unfolds, the disciples find themselves traversing the winding path, their footsteps echoing softly against the backdrop of an uncertain journey. Along this route, they unexpectedly encounter a courier, who hands them a mysterious package wrapped in an enigmatic shroud of secrecy. The disciples exchange wary glances, puzzled by the contents of this intriguing box. Their curiosity eventually gets the better of them, and upon opening it, they uncover an assortment of treasures that Joanna has thoughtfully dispatched to bolster their ministerial endeavors.
Realizing that liquidating each item alone would be a monumental task, Judas takes charge, distributing a piece to each disciple, including Matthew, whose heart is still burdened by the weight of his past financial transgressions. Peter steps in, offering Matthew reassurance that the group’s trust in him remains steadfast and unwavering, and with that, they split up to sell their treasures.
When the disciples reconvene, they are delighted to find that their endeavors have amassed a substantial sum. As they draw nearer to Jerusalem, the decision of where to lay their heads becomes paramount. Judas argues for using the money to secure lodgings at a proper inn, while John proposes they do so incognito, using aliases. Simon Z’s brother, possibly still residing in Jerusalem, is considered but deemed unlikely to possess accommodations sufficient for their needs. There is reluctance among some to seek refuge with Nicodemus, despite Mary’s assurance of his welcoming spirit.
Just when the matter seems unresolved, Jesus arrives, dispelling their doubts by announcing that they shall stay in Bethany with his cherished friends, Lazarus, Mary, and Martha. However, their journey to Bethany is far from smooth. Along the way, a contingent of Roman soldiers ambush them, compelling them to bear their armor and baggage—an infuriating humiliation, especially given the soldiers' rough treatment of Jesus, Mary Magdalene, and Tamar. disciples to maintain composure, an advice that falls on deaf ears for Judas, whose anger simmers uncontrollably.
When they reach the statutory limit under Roman law—the mile marker denoting the farthest they can be compelled to go—the soldiers prepare to reclaim their belongings. But Jesus presses onward, explaining that while they may be mandated to walk only a mile, they shall voluntarily exceed that distance to the Roman base. This act of unparalleled generosity shames the Romans into retrieving their helmets and heavier loads. Philip recalls Jesus’ teachings on going the extra mile (Matthew 5:41), but Judas remains incensed, unmoved by Jesus’ moral triumph.
After backtracking the two miles to reclaim their belongings, the disciples resume their journey to Bethany. As they near their destination, Jesus grants Judas permission to visit his friend Hadad, who also dwells in Bethany, once they have shared a meal together. Their arrival is met with Mary of Bethany’s boundless joy, her heart swelling with delight upon seeing Jesus once again.
Inside Lazarus' abode, Martha is seen vigorously tidying up, her movements brimming with fervent energy. As Lazarus emerges to welcome Jesus, he pretends momentarily to be aggrieved by the intrusion but soon envelops his friend in laughter. Martha, swift and attentive, immediately springs into action, serving Jesus and his disciples with unwavering devotion, while Mary joins the group, guiding them to their seats.
As they settle down, Jesus unfolds the Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16), illustrating how a landowner hires various groups of workers throughout the day, promising each a denarius for their labor. The early workers protest when they learn that the later arrivals will receive the same pay. Jesus elucidates that the calculations of God's kingdom may seem unjust, as they are not predicated on merit. Throughout the narrative, Martha attempts to subtly signal Mary to rise and lend a hand, but Mary remains absorbed, her gaze fixed solely on Jesus' teachings.
Eventually, Martha's patience wears thin, and she implores Jesus to persuade her sister to assist. Jesus gently explains to Martha that her service and culinary endeavors are indeed commendable, but the ultimate way to serve him is by attending to his words. While Martha's meals are fleeting, Mary has chosen to nourish herself on the imperishable sustenance of Jesus' teachings, a treasure that will never be taken from her. However, he concedes that perhaps Mary could have lent a helping hand—prompting a silent apology from Mary's lips. Lazarus and Peter then take charge of serving the remaining food, allowing Martha to join the group as they embark on a musical interlude.
As the melodies resonate through the room, Jesus notices subtle signs of illness flickering across Lazarus' visage. Troubled by this observation, he excuses himself and encounters his mother, Mary of Nazareth. After granting Judas permission to depart, Jesus and Mary share a poignant reminiscence of his childhood, with Mary tenderly washing his hair. Jesus voices his frustration over his disciples' limited understanding—their incessant pursuit of earthly status and their offense when he demonstrates deference to Rome. Mary acknowledges their humanity, but Jesus emphasizes that he shares that humanity too, a truth she knows well from the countless soiled swaddling clothes she once changed.
Yet, Jesus is deeply saddened that his teachings fall on deaf ears among the religious leaders, the masses, and even his own disciples who profess to follow him. The only means to pierce their comprehension will be through a bitter path. As Joseph once taught him through example, Jesus realizes he must demonstrate, not merely instruct. He reveals that he has already foretold his disciples of impending events, but their aversion to difficult truths has rendered them oblivious.
As Jesus engages in conversation with Mary, Judas finds himself at the abode of his mentor, Hadad. Hadad derides the disciples, mocking their lack of a permanent dwelling and their apparent stagnation, fresh from their expulsion from an insignificant village. Judas concedes that Jesus fails to grasp the significance of public perception. When Hadad learns of Ramah's untimely demise at the hands of a Roman, his fury ignites at the notion that Roman citizens face mere trivial repercussions. He insists that drastic action is overdue.
Despite his unwavering belief in Jesus as the Messiah, based on his miraculous deeds and profound teachings, Judas puzzles over their lack of urgency. His faith unshaken in Jesus' divine mission, yet puzzled by the pace, Judas seeks understanding. Upon discovering Judas's newly appointed role as treasurer, Hadad urges him to set aside a larger portion for himself, acknowledging the unique skills he brings to the table. Initially offended by this proposition, Judas eventually concedes that his faith is wavering.
Hadad offers solace, painting a vision where Judas will one day occupy the esteemed position of Secretary of the Messiah’s Treasury. Yet, until that day arrives, he insists it is prudent for Judas to ensure his own well-being. He further encourages Judas to leverage his position to prod Jesus into taking decisive action.
As the disciples make preparations to depart from Lazarus' home, we witness Judas acting upon Hadad's words, surreptitiously taking funds for his own gain from the disciples' common purse, his actions a silent testament to his internal struggle and evolving character.
As the opening credits fade, we find ourselves amidst the hallowed halls of the Sanhedrin, where Shmuel, Yanni, and Rabbi Zebediah engage in a fiery debate with the Sadducees. The topic at hand: whether the Hebrew Scriptures hold the promise of resurrection and eternal life. The Sadducees stand firm, asserting that eternal life consists merely in adhering to the commandments, while the prophecies of resurrection are mere metaphors for the rejuvenation of the Jewish nation. The Pharisees counter by questioning whether the Sadducees' affluence and comfort in this world blind them to the necessity of the resurrection's promise.
Amidst this intellectual clash, Yussif arrives, greeted by Shmuel, who swiftly deduces that Yussif's seat was secured through his father's wealth and influence. Yussif defends himself, insisting they both used whatever means necessary to gain a foothold in this council. Shmuel concedes the point but wonders aloud what Yussif intends to do with his newly acquired sway.
Shmuel then immerses Yussif in the intricate web of factions within the Sanhedrin: ambitious lawyers vying for favor, Hellenized Herodians pushing for Jewish compromise, the lenient Pharisees of Hillel, and the stringent Pharisees of Shammai.
As the Sanhedrin convenes, Gederah, one of its leaders, reveals that Rome's stance towards the Jews is shifting. Pilate's recent brutalities have crossed a line, displeasing Emperor Tiberius. To retain the Emperor's favor, Pilate must uphold peace. Recognizing this fragile equilibrium, the Sanhedrin sees an opportunity to coerce Pilate into doing their bidding. Yussif rises, poised to challenge this cynical outlook, but Shmuel stays his hand, reminding him that as the newest member, he holds no leverage. If Yussif seeks change, he must do so through established channels, like committees or task forces. Among the lengthy and单调 list of committees, Yussif's interest piques at the mention of a group dedicated to studying Babylonian prophecies, discerning which have come to pass and which await fulfillment.
Shmuel proceeds to introduce Yussif to several Pharisees, but unfortunately, the head of the prophecy group is offended by Yussif's family ties to a rival. Yussif is also introduced to Lahad, a Pharisee on a committee bent on reclaiming Beersheba, originally delineated within Israel's borders in the Torah. During their conversation, Lahad casually reveals his plot to have Jesus executed, hoping to galvanize support for his cause. This revelation, coupled with Lahad's stark cynicism, fills Yussif with horror.
