E4- Resurrection & Revelation

Summary

I Witness: Silent Night - Episode 4: Resurrection & Revelation

Release Date: May 13, 2024
Host/Author: Northwest Christian School, Red Five Media

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Introduction

In Episode 4 of "I Witness," titled "Resurrection & Revelation," listeners are immersed in a compelling audio drama that intertwines technology with timeless biblical narratives. Hosted by Northwest Christian School through Red Five Media, this episode leverages a virtual reality experience named Elysium to transport characters—and listeners—into profound moments of faith, conflict, and revelation.

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Embarking on the Elysium Experience

The episode kicks off with the Host introducing Elysium, a cutting-edge virtual reality platform developed collaboratively by various departments striving to create an "experience" that feels indistinguishable from real life ([00:35]).

Matthew enthusiastically describes the setup:
"We're gonna be sitting in these big Lazy Boy recliners with the cords, hookups, gloves, and the goggles, and we'll feel everything as if it were real life." ([00:35])

As the countdown to initiation begins, the characters—Matthew, Thomas, Malia, Azariah, and Father—find themselves transported into a biblical setting, encountering figures like Jesus and Lazarus amidst supernatural developments.

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Confrontation with Legion

Upon arrival, the group witnesses an intense interaction between Jesus and a demonic entity known as Legion. This confrontation encapsulates the eternal struggle between divine love and destructive rebellion.

Father introduces the night as particularly special:
"This night in particular is going to be a very special night because he is coming." ([01:14])

Legion emerges as a formidable antagonist:
"I am Legion. We are one. We are many. We are many." ([02:55])

Jesus addresses Legion with unwavering compassion:
"Despair is not the destiny of a human soul. What is it that you seek?" ([03:14])

Despite Legion's resistance, Jesus emphasizes the power of the Father's love:
"The Father's love is not to be feared. It is the essence of creation, the very fabric of existence." ([04:00])

This dialogue highlights the central theme of the episode—the triumph of love and faith over darkness and chaos.

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Jesus' Teaching: The Parable of the Sower

A pivotal moment unfolds as Jesus shares the Parable of the Sower, offering listeners profound insights into human receptivity and spiritual growth.

Jesus elaborates:
"Picture a farmer sowing seeds upon the soil... These hearts are resistant, unreceptive to the seeds of wisdom." ([06:05] - [09:21])

He categorizes the soil types to represent various human dispositions:

• Wayside Soil: Symbolizes hardened hearts trampled by life's trials.
• Rocky Soil: Represents superficial acceptance that falters under pressure.
• Thorny Soil: Mirrors hearts distracted by worldly concerns.
• Good Soil: Denotes open, receptive hearts that nurture truth.

The lesson underscores the necessity of cultivating one's heart to embrace and bear the fruit of understanding and wisdom.

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The Resurrection of Lazarus

The narrative reaches its emotional crescendo with Jesus announcing the resurrection of Lazarus, a demonstration of divine power and a testament to faith.

Jesus declares:
"We have some traveling to do." ([02:06])

As the group approaches Lazarus' tomb, Mary confronts Jesus:
"If you had been here, my brother would not have died." ([13:19])

In response, Jesus proclaims:
"I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even though they die." ([13:30])

Upon removing the stone from the tomb, Lazarus emerges, resurrected:
"He looks normal." ([16:27])
"Lazarus. Come out. Out, out." ([15:22])

This miraculous event not only validates Jesus' divine mission but also reinforces the episode's exploration of belief, faith, and the power of divine intervention.

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Return to Reality and Reflections

As the virtual experience concludes, the characters grapple with the profound events they've witnessed. Malia remarks on the realism of the simulation:
"I kind of forgot it wasn't real." ([17:07])

Father and Thomas discuss the apparent time discrepancy between their virtual journey and reality, pondering the depth and impact of the experience.

Matthew shares a humorous revelation about his prolonged engagement in a philosophy class, adding a touch of levity to the intense narrative.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Matthew ([00:35]):
  "We're gonna be sitting in these big Lazy Boy recliners with the cords, hookups, gloves, and the goggles, and we'll feel everything as if it were real life."

• Jesus ([03:14]):
  "Despair is not the destiny of a human soul. What is it that you seek?"

• Legion ([02:55]):
  "I am Legion. We are one. We are many. We are many."

• Jesus ([06:05]):
  "Picture a farmer sowing seeds upon the soil... These hearts are resistant, unreceptive to the seeds of wisdom."

• Jesus ([13:30]):
  "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even though they die."

• Jesus ([15:22]):
  "Did I not tell you that? If you believe, you will see the glory of God. Remove the stone."

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Conclusion and Insights

"I Witness: Silent Night" Episode 4 masterfully blends immersive storytelling with profound theological discourse, challenging listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys. Through the Elysium virtual reality experience, the episode delves deep into themes of faith, redemption, and the transformative power of divine love.

The resurrection of Lazarus serves as a powerful metaphor for rebirth and the limitless possibilities that faith can unlock. The interactions between Jesus and Legion offer a timeless exploration of good versus evil, emphasizing that personal choices shape one's destiny.

Listeners are left contemplating the parable's relevance in their lives, encouraged to cultivate their hearts as Jesus advises, ensuring they remain fertile grounds for truth and wisdom.

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Prepare to be captivated, prepare to be amazed, prepare to become an eyewitness to the extraordinary. This is "I Witness."

Transcript

[Host]

This episode is brought to you by Northwest Christian School Online. To learn more, visit ncsonline.org.

[Azariah]

Previously on Eyewitness.

[Host]

But I encourage you to re examine your Bible and ask yourself to look at the lack of consistency throughout that entire book. I would have a much easier time discerning if I were able to talk to someone who was actually there. So the departments that I just mentioned have been working in tandem on a new virtual reality experience. And when. When I say experience, I mean it.

[Matthew]

So we're gonna be sitting in these big Lazy Boy recliners with the cords, hookups, gloves and the goggles, and we'll feel everything as if it were real life.

[Host]

Correct, dude. Elysium. Initiate starting countdown.

[Thomas]

Oh, my gosh.

[Matthew]

There's no way it's this real.

[Malia]

Guys, where do you think we are?

[Matthew]

I don't think that's what we should be asking. I think the better question is when are we?

[Father]

On behalf of Bethany of Judea, I welcome you. This night in particular is going to be a very special night because he is coming.

[Malia]

Who?

[Legion]

The Teacher.

[Malia]

I'm sorry, but who is the Teacher?

[Matthew]

Maybe you know him by his name. What's his name?

[Malia]

Jesus.

[Matthew]

This old Jesus thing, it's trash, dude. It's stupid. I'm out of here.

[Jesus]

Elysium Extract I wish your other friend could have stayed. But not everyone listens. Have you three met Mary yet?

[Mary]

I'm Mary, the daughter of Simon. It's so nice to meet you.

[Jesus]

I'm planning to return to Jordan soon. Hopefully first light tomorrow.

[Father]

Hopefully not before spending a few moments.

[Jesus]

With an old friend.

[Matthew]

And your name, sir?

[Jesus]

My name is Lazarus.

[Matthew]

So what's the plan then?

[Jesus]

The plan? We have some traveling to do. Could someone please help me out of the boat?

[Lazarus]

Take my hand, Master.

[Matthew]

Jesus, why are we coming to Gerasenes again?

[Jesus]

We're going to.

[Lazarus]

Guard the Master. What do you want with him?

[Legion]

Jesus, son of the Most High God. In God's name, do not torture me.

[Lazarus]

Leave this place now.

[Legion]

Jesus, please.

[Jesus]

Who are you?

[Legion]

I am Legion. We are one. We are many. We are many.

[Jesus]

Why have you taken residence in this man?

[Legion]

We sense the fractured pieces of his soul. His despair.

[Jesus]

Despair is not the destiny of a human soul. What is it that you seek?

[Legion]

Seek? We seek the unraveling. We revel in the suffering.

[Jesus]

Your revelry brings only pain. But there is another way.

[Legion]

There is no other way.

[Jesus]

Your delight is but a hollow illusion. Truth lies in the love of the Father. A love that is radiant, like a light that dispels even the darkest shadows.

[Legion]

You Speak of love as if it were a force. We fear nothing. Nothing. Nothing.

[Jesus]

The Father's love is not to be feared. It is the essence of creation, the very fabric of existence. As I raise my hand to thee.

[Legion]

Your hand is powerless. We are bound to this vessel.

[Jesus]

You are bound only by your choices. Why do you resist the embrace of Father's love?

[Legion]

A feeble attempt to counter the inevitable descent into chaos?

[Jesus]

Chaos is not inevitable. It is a choice. Choose the path of light and the darkness will dissipate.

[Legion]

We cannot choose. We are shackled by our rebellion.

[Jesus]

Your rebellion is a choice. And choices can be undone. Will you yield to the Divine?

[Legion]

No. We will not yield.

[Jesus]

What is it that you want?

[Legion]

Leave us be. Do not send us from here.

[Jesus]

Where then shall I sen. And then.

[Father]

The Teacher extended his hand toward the possessed man.

[Jesus]

And be gone from this man. This man.

[Father]

After the demons left the man, he begged to accompany Jesus. But the Teacher said no. Instead, he told the man to go back to his village and to tell.

[Azariah]

Them all the good the Lord had done. I can't count how many times we have heard this story before, Father.

[Legion]

Fr.

[Father]

Forgive me, my friends, but my youngest daughter has heard these stories more than any.

[Azariah]

You always bring up the Teacher and his stories.

[Father]

Do not fault me, Malia. These stories are great stories. They move people. We must share him to everyone.

[Azariah]

Yes, Father.

[Thomas]

I liked it.

[Azariah]

Don't tell him that, or he will just go on and on and on.

[Malia]

I don't mind listening, Azariah. You can go on and on and on all you like.

[Father]

Have you heard about the time Jesus shared the story?

[Jesus]

Picture a farmer sowing seeds upon the soil. Soil as varied as the hearts of those who receive them. The farmer went forth to sow, casting seeds on the ground. Some seeds fell by the wayside, trampled underfoot, and the birds of the air devoured them. Why would someone trample on the seats? The wayside soil represents hearts hardened by the trials and tribulations of life. Just as a path becomes compacted by constant treading. These hearts are resistant, unreceptive to the seeds of wisdom. The seeds, like scattered pearls, are snatched away before they can take root. Other seeds they fell on rocky ground where there was little soil to take root. They sprouted up quickly, but the soil was shallow. They withered away when the sun beat down upon them. The rocky soil are hearts that initially embraced the truth with enthusiasm. Yet beneath the surface lies a shallowness, an absence of depth. When the trials come, like the scorching sun, the roots wither away, for there's no depth to sustain the growth. Other seeds. They fell among the thorns, and the thorns grew up with them, choking the young plants. The thorny soil mirrors hearts preoccupied with cares and riches of the world. Just as thorns compete for nutrients with young plants, these distractions stifle the growth of truth. The seeds are crowded out, unable to flourish amidst the clamor of worldly concerns. Yet some seeds fall on good soil, and they grew and produced a hundredfold. This good soil signifies the hearts that are open, receptive and fertile. They receive the seeds with understanding and bear fruit upon abundantly. These hearts are like rich soil, nurturing the seeds of truth, allowing them to take root and flourish. The lesson, my dear ones, is about the soil of your hearts. Take care. Cultivate the soil. Remove the rocks and the thorns, and allow the seeds of truth to find a deep and receptive abode. Let your hearts be like the good soil, ready to embrace and bear the fruit of understanding and wisdom. May your lives reflect the abundance that comes from a heart receptive to the seeds of truth.

[Matthew]

Where are we going now, Matthew?

[Lazarus]

I'm not sure. We'll wait for the teacher to decide.

[Father]

Matthew, I must speak with the teacher at once. Yes, teacher. I received word.

[Jesus]

From whom?

[Father]

From Mary and Martha. They said, lord, the man you love is sick.

[Jesus]

This sickness won't end in death. It is for God's glory, so that God's son may be glorified through it. Are we returning to Bethany in time? My work here is not yet done, Matthew. Please have the others make camp. Please. Excuse me.

[Malia]

Are you okay, Azariah?

[Father]

Yes. I'm just surprised.

[Malia]

By what?

[Father]

Lazarus is beloved by Jesus. I'm surprised he's not returning immediately.

[Thomas]

He's just sick.

[Father]

Though we would not have heard this news if it was not dire.

[Thomas]

Dire. So why aren't we leaving then?

[Father]

I don't know. But the teacher is wiser than I, so I will trust him.

[Host]

Don't let mainstream news happen to you. World Watch is here to solve that crucial missing piece called Current Events for Students Everywhere Meet, a program that covers the world. Plus relevant headlines, fun stories and essential school subjects. This show may cause logical conversations and informed prayers in kids, teens and even adults. Start a free [e-mail].

[Jesus]

My friends, it is time. We must return to Judea.

[Lazarus]

But, teacher, a few days ago, those Pharisees wanted to have you killed. And yet you want to go back.

[Jesus]

Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep. But I am going there to wake him up.

[Lazarus]

Lord, if he sleeps, he'll get better.

[Jesus]

Lazarus Is dead. And for your sake, I am glad I was not there so that you may believe. Then let us go to him so that we may die with him. Azariah, will you return with us?

[Father]

Of course, my lord. Malia, please gather your things.

[Azariah]

Yes, Father.

[Matthew]

Is that the village up ahead?

[Father]

Yes, it is. Stay close, my friends. I fear the threat we left will return. Malia, please run ahead and stay inside with your mother.

[Azariah]

I don't want to stay inside. I want to see them.

[Father]

Please, my daughter, do as I ask. I want nothing to happen to you if there is danger for the teacher and those with him.

[Azariah]

Yes, father.

[Thomas]

So is there like a funeral or something we're going to?

[Matthew]

Not quite.

[Thomas]

Well, what is it then?

[Matthew]

It's gonna be a little crazy.

[Jesus]

Jesus.

[Mary]

Jesus. Why didn't you come back sooner?

[Jesus]

I have returned now.

[Mary]

If you had been here, my brother would not have died.

[Jesus]

Your brother will rise again.

[Mary]

How, my Lord? How?

[Jesus]

I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even though they die. And whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?

[Mary]

Yes, Lord. I believe you are the Messiah. Please, Lord, let me get Mary. She is in mourning.

[Jesus]

Get her and meet us where my friend has been buried.

[Mary]

Right away, my lord.

[Matthew]

Azariah, should we go with Jesus?

[Father]

Yes. And stay close.

[Mary]

My lord. Why were you here?

[Jesus]

We needed you.

[Mary]

My brother would not have died had you been here.

[Jesus]

Oh, Mary, I loved him dearly and I still love him.

[Thomas]

Why is Jesus crying?

[Father]

Because he knows.

[Thomas]

Knows what?

[Father]

He knows what? He is taking Lazarus away from Azariah.

[Malia]

Should we be concerned by all these people coming?

[Father]

Be present, my friends. Focus on what is about to happen. We are safe. I know that now.

[Jesus]

Where have you laid him?

[Mary]

Here, my lord.

[Jesus]

Matthew, Thomas, remove the stone.

[Mary]

But Lord, he has been dead for four days.

[Jesus]

Did I not tell you that? If you believe, you will see the glory of God. Remove the stone. Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I know that you always hear me. But I said this for the benefit of the people standing here that they may believe that you sent me. Lazarus. Come out. Out, out.

[Father]

I cannot believe my eyes. He is the Messiah.

[Jesus]

Quickly, take the grave clothes off and let him go.

[Thomas]

Is that really Lazarus?

[Matthew]

Yeah, it is.

[Malia]

He looks normal.

[Father]

Of course he does. He has been resurrected as if he.

[Matthew]

Was never ill. Azariah, thank you for everything you've done for us. This has been one of the most incredible.

[Host]

Welcome back, ladies and gentlemen. Please don't stand up. We will help you. Disengage from the elysium. Now, how was the experience?

[Malia]

Crazy.

[Host]

How so?

[Malia]

I kind of forgot it wasn't real.

[Thomas]

Charlie, I don't really know what to say.

[Host]

Okay, I'll take that as a good sign. Once you're completely disengaged and cleared, you can head out that door and find your parents.

[Lazarus]

So, how was it?

[Matthew]

Incredible. How long were you guys waiting?

[Lazarus]

About an hour.

[Matthew]

That's it?

[Lazarus]

Yeah. Why?

[Matthew]

We were in there for days.

[Lazarus]

Seriously, what did you guys do?

[Matthew]

I'll tell you on the way.

[Lazarus]

On the way to what?

[Matthew]

That philosophy professor's class.

[Host]

Thank you for joining us for Eyewitness. The Lazarus Project. This episode was sponsored by NCS Online. Looking for flexible top tier education? Choose NCS Online. Enroll now for [e-mail].