Ep 12. Spies And Apostles Part 1

The Naked Archaeologist season 3 episode 12, "Spies And Apostles Part 1," delves into the world of espionage and how it played a role in the early Christian church. Host, Simcha Jacobovici, takes viewers on a journey through ancient texts, artifacts, and locations to uncover the truth about the spies and apostles who helped spread the message of Christianity.

The episode begins with Simcha exploring the city of Jerusalem and its complex history. He discusses how the city was a hub for many different cultures and religions, which made it a hot spot for spies and political intrigue. Simcha then travels to Rome, where he visits the Vatican Archives to uncover ancient documents that reveal the twisted history of the Catholic Church's relationship with espionage.

From there, Simcha travels to the Middle East to explore the early Christian communities that were scattered throughout the region. He visits locations such as Ephesus, where the apostle Paul is said to have lived and preached, and Antioch, where the term "Christian" was first coined. He discovers that throughout the early days of the church, spies and informants were a common occurrence, and many aspects of Christianity were kept secret to avoid persecution.

Simcha also uncovers fascinating artifacts that shed light on the early Christian church's relationship with espionage. He visits the Louvre Museum in Paris, where he examines ancient oil lamps that were used by early Christian communities to send secret messages. These lamps had different symbols and hidden messages that only members of the church would understand, making it difficult for outsiders to decipher what was being said.

Finally, Simcha explores the role of Judas Iscariot, who is perhaps the most infamous spy in the Bible. He visits the Church of Saint Peter in Gallicantu, where Judas is said to have betrayed Jesus. He examines ancient texts and artifacts to uncover the truth about Judas and his motivations. Simcha also discusses how Judas' betrayal shaped the course of Christianity and how it still impacts the religion to this day.

Overall, "Spies And Apostles Part 1" is a fascinating look at the role of espionage in the early Christian church. Simcha Jacobovici does an excellent job of bringing ancient history to life, and viewers will be engrossed by the secrets and intrigue of this episode. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the early days of Christianity, this episode is sure to provide insight and entertainment.