Joshua is the gentle young Messiah spending his childhood and youth in Nazareth under Roman occupation. He possesses miraculous abilities but struggles with self-doubt regarding his divine destiny and the nature of his heavenly father's justice. His journey involves seeking wisdom from various cultures and belief systems to form inclusive, compassionate teachings.

Biff is the irreverent, sarcastic, and fiercely loyal childhood best friend of the Messiah. Brought back to life centuries later, he narrates the lost years of his divine companion's life. He serves as his friend's protector and earthly guide, employing cunning and ingenuity to shield him from danger.

Mary of Magdala, known as Maggie, is a spirited and courageous childhood friend to both Biff and Joshua. She exhibits devout faith and a defiant nature, standing up to bullies and remaining steadfast in her beliefs despite immense societal pressure regarding her future.

Jakan is the domineering and cruel son of a Pharisee in Nazareth. He uses his father's influence to intimidate others and enforce strict religious laws, representing the corruption and abusive power structures present within the occupied society.

Gaius Justus Gallicus is an older, level-headed Roman centurion stationed near Nazareth. Despite his position in an occupying army, he exhibits integrity by protecting the religious freedoms of the citizens under his watch and maintains a surprising respect for the young Messiah.

Raziel is an angel tasked with resurrecting Biff and assisting him in writing a new Gospel. He frequently clashes with his human charge's crude demeanor and gradually develops an amusing fascination with modern soap operas.

Joseph is Joshua's stepfather, working as a stonemason by trade. Recognizing the dangerous burden his stepson carries, he specifically tasks Biff with staying by the boy's side to teach him how to be human.

Mary is Joshua's mother. She offers quiet guidance to her son, directing him toward his destiny and encouraging him to seek out his cousin John and the three Magi.

Balthasar is an Ethiopian magician and the first of the three wise men Joshua and Biff locate. Residing in a secluded home, he teaches Joshua about Taoism and harbors secrets related to his supernaturally extended life.

Gaspar is a magus and abbot residing in a mountaintop monastery near the Great Wall of China. Originally an Indian prince, he utilizes harsh physical methods to teach his students about Buddhism, kung fu, and the relinquishing of the ego.

Melchior is the third wise man. He instructs his young divine student in yoga and the Upanishads, helping the young man understand the concept of the Divine Spark present in all things.

Joy is one of Balthasar's concubines in his canyon home. She provides Biff with instruction in the creation of poisons and antidotes, forming an alliance with him to uncover the mysteries hidden behind a forbidden iron door.

Catch is a powerful demon bound by a long-standing contract to an Ethiopian magician. Confined behind a heavy iron door, the creature presents a deadly threat to anyone who meddles with the fortress's secrets.

A gentle, innocent creature dwelling in the high mountains near a secluded monastery. As the last of his kind, he forms a profound, wordless bond with a visiting student based on their shared sense of isolation and boundless compassion.

Judas is a Zealot who despises the Romans and joins a growing group of apostles. He envisions a savior as a military conqueror who will lead a violent uprising, putting his expectations at odds with peaceful, inclusive teachings.

John is a zealous preacher who spends his time washing away sins in the River Jordan. He helps refine public speaking skills for his divine relative and acts as a booming voice declaring his arrival.

Simon is Maggie and Martha's brother. Suffering from illness, he provides a crucial refuge for his sister when she needs to escape her oppressive environment.

Martha is Maggie's older sister. She voices deep concern over Maggie's well-being, particularly regarding the cruelty of local religious authorities.

Ahmad is a trader who leads a caravan along the Spice Road. He provides safe passage to Kabul and engages in theological debates with his young passengers along the lengthy journey.

Known locally as the village idiot, Bartholomew is actually a Greek Cynic who has renounced worldly desires. Despite not being Jewish, he recognizes early on the divine significance of a local child.

Rumi is an Untouchable man whose family faces severe discrimination. He assists two travelers when they are chased, leading them to intervene against the local religious hierarchy.

Vitra is Rumi's daughter. She faces grave danger due to her family's social status, prompting a daring rescue mission.

Joseph is an influential merchant who supports new spiritual teachings. He utilizes his wealth and social standing to provide safe spaces for traveling apostles and assist with necessary arrangements during turbulent times.

Peter is a fisherman who decides to follow a young preacher after witnessing his miraculous abilities. He demonstrates immense faith, even attempting to perform miracles himself alongside his teacher.

James is a bitter half-brother who remains in Nazareth. He harbors resentment toward his sibling's prolonged absences and the disruption his divine calling brings to their family.

Andrew is a fisherman who hears of recent miracles and invites his followers to his home, becoming one of the earliest members of the apostolic group.

Philip is a recent acolyte who transitions into joining an expedition traveling to Cana, expanding the growing circle of believers.

Nathaniel is a friend of Philip who joins the growing group of followers on their journey to attend a wedding in Cana.