The Bible

From perfect beginnings, mankind falters, and God sends a devastating flood. Noah's descendant Abraham is promised a people of his own, yet it seems impossible as his wife Sarah is barren. Abraham's faith is put to the ultimate test, as he learns what God demands of him. Meanwhile, Abraham's nephew, Lot, chooses his own path and set out for the city of Sodom.

Believing Jesus to be with them, Peter has the strength to spread his message, despite all the fear and challenges. But fierce persecutor Paul becomes the greatest messenger of all, taking the word into the heart of the Roman world, bringing countless followers into the new faith. The word miraculously lives on.

The Israelites are slaves in Egypt, and Moses learns that God wants him to free them. The Pharaoh refuses to let them leave, even when God sends terrible plagues. But an awesome miracle allows Moses to lead the Israelites to the wilderness where God promises them a land as long as they abide by the rules.

In the Promised Land, warrior Joshua takes Jericho, but subsequent leaders are less focused. Samson eventually learns to follow God's will and takes on the Philistines, but by the time of prophet Samuel, the Israelites are demanding a king. Saul is anointed the first king, but already another waits in the wings...a young shepherd boy named David.

King Saul learns -- too late -- the importance of obeying God. As his power falls, a new star rises. David defeats the mighty Goliath and wins the hearts of the people. But his greed for more is his downfall. He takes Jerusalem, and then his best friend's wife. The golden age of Jerusalem is fleeting.

The warnings of Prophet Jeremiah are ignored, and the people are powerless to stop the Babylonian invasion. With no city or temple, the people must learn to keep God in their hearts. After years in exile, Daniel's visions and unerring faith help to negotiate a return to Jerusalem despite -- or, perhaps, because of -- his encounter in the lion's den.

In Roman-occupied Jerusalem, the people crave a messiah to free them. Instead they have Herod the Great, put on the throne by the Romans. Meanwhile, Mary is shocked to learn she will give birth to a child...the son of God. King Herod rages about the baby usurper to his throne, and John the Baptist prepares the people for the greatest leader yet -- Jesus. His mission begins...

Jesus' new disciples share in the joy of his miracles, but not everyone is pleased to hear his message. His re-interpretation of Jewish law challenges the authorities. and all try to work out what kind of leader Jesus is. Who is this man who can heal the sick and raise the dead? The most almighty storm is brewing.

Jesus' entry into Jerusalem at Passover week brings joyous celebration for some, and huge problems for others. Caiaphas searches for a way to stem Jesus' growing popularity as Pilate threatens to shut the Temple. The disciples share a meal and a sense of impending doom. It's all about to go very wrong.

On the day of Passover, Pilate has a terrible choice. High Priest Caiaphas tells him Jesus' execution is necessary to keep the peace. Pilate’s wife is also troubled – she dreams that her husband is about to execute an innocent man. The disciples live through the horror of watching Jesus' crucifixion, and when he dies the skies blacken. Yet those with faith are soon to be rewarded.