Jesus's Disciples

You are standing at a crossroads in ancient Judea, faced with two paths, each leading to a different man’s journey. One belongs to Matthew, a tax collector who left behind wealth and followed jesus. The other belongs to Thomas, a disciple known for his doubts and his journey to spread the gospel far and wide. [[Folllow Mathew]] [[Follow Thomas]]

You are sitting at your tax booth in Capernaum, counting coins when a man approaches. He looks at you and simply says, “Follow me.” (Mathew 9:9-13) The coins clinked as you abandoned your booth. The murmurs of disgust from the crowd stung. [[Hesitate, stay in Capernaum and continue tax collecting.->1b]] [[Immediately leave everything behind and follow Him.->1A]]

You were born in Galilee, you work as a carpenter or fisherman. Jesus has risen from the dead, but you weren’t there when He first appeared to the others. They tell you He is alive, but you cannot believe it. I wanted to believe, but how could I? My brothers had seen Him. I had not. Could I afford to hope again? [[Demand proof and say, “I won’t believe unless I see His wounds.”->2A]] [[ Try to trust their words despite your doubts.->2B]]

You hesitate. The other tax collectors mock you, and the Pharisees call Jesus a fool for associating with sinners. The opportunity to follow Jesus is slipping away. [[Run after Jesus and accept His call. ->1A]] [[Remain in your old life. ->story ends]]

Something in His voice made you trust. You followed. You leave your job and follow Jesus. That night, you host a feast in His honor, inviting your fellow tax collectors and sinners. (Luke 5:29). The Pharisees criticize Jesus for eating with you. [[Defend Jesus and your decision.->1C]] [[Stay silent, still unsure of your worthiness.->1D]]

The End.

You stand up and say, “Jesus calls sinners, not the righteous.” Jesus smiles and responds, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” (Mathew 9;13) You are filled with a deep purpose. Years later, you write an account of Jesus’ life, what will become the Gospel of Matthew. Some traditions say you went to Judea, Ethiopia or Persia to preach. ''The End – Matthew’s Legacy Lives On''

You stay silent, unsure if you truly belong. But Jesus sees your heart and reassures you that everyone is welcome in His kingdom. This encouragement strengthens your faith. Years later, you spread His message far and wide. ''The End – Matthew the Evangelist''

A week later, Jesus appears before you and says, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." Overwhelmed, you cry out, “My Lord and my God!” [[Devote yourself to spreading His word. ->2C]] [[Stay quiet, feeling ashamed for doubting.->2D]]

Despite your doubts, you choose to trust in faith. Later, Jesus appears to you and blesses you, saying, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (John 20:29)You are filled with purpose. [[Set out on a journey to share this message,->2C]] [[Stay in Jerusalem with the other disciples.->2E]]

You travel to India, preaching to those who have never heard of Jesus. Many believe, but the local king is angered by your influence. [[Stand firm in your faith, knowing the risks. ->2F]] [[ Try to escape to another land. ->2G]]

You feel unworthy after doubting Jesus. You choose to stay in the background, but your story still spreads. Future believers will know you as “Doubting Thomas,” yet also as one who found the greatest faith. ''The End – A Legacy of Faith''

You remain in Jerusalem, teaching and guiding the early Church. Eventually, you decide to journey beyond Judea, carrying the Gospel with you. ''The End – The Teacher of Many''

You refuse to deny your faith. The local king orders your execution, and you are struck with a spear. But your legacy continues with traces of Christianity in India tying back to you. ''The End – Thomas the Martyr''

You flee, spreading the message in different lands. Though you escape death, history remembers you as the first to bring the Gospel to India. ''The End – The Missionary’s Journey''