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Golgotha
Book by Skinner, Andrew C.
Hardcover
First published December 1, 2003
About the author
Andrew C. Skinner
43 books24 followersAndrew C. Skinner was born and raised in Colorado. He attended the University of Colorado where he earned his B.A. degree in history. He then earned an M.A. degree from the Iliff School of Theology in Jewish Studies and a Th.M. degree from Harvard in Biblical Hebrew. He did graduate work at Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Israel. His Ph.D. was awarded from the University of Denver in Near Eastern and European History, specializing in Judaism.
Brother Skinner taught four years at Ricks College, and has filled three assignments at the BYU Jerusalem Center where he served as a faculty member and taught Near Eastern Studies. Since September 2000 he has served as the Dean of Religious Education at Brigham Young University. Prior to his current appointment, he served as chair of the department of Ancient Scripture at BYU. He is the author or co-author of over 100 publications including Jerusalem: The Eternal City; New Testament Apostles Testify of Christ; Discoveries in the Judaean Desert: The Unidentified Fragments from Qumran Cave 4 (which is an analysis of all the unidentified Hebrew and Aramaic Dead Sea Scroll texts); Scriptural Parables for the Latter Days, and Gethsemane.
He served a full time mission for the LDS Church from 1970-72 in the California Central Mission and served as Branch President at the Missionary Training Center in Provo. He has also served as a bishop in Colorado and Utah and currently serves as a member of the Correlation Evaluation Committee of the Church.
He and his wife Janet Corbridge reside in Lindon, Utah, and they are the parents of six children.
Brother Skinner taught four years at Ricks College, and has filled three assignments at the BYU Jerusalem Center where he served as a faculty member and taught Near Eastern Studies. Since September 2000 he has served as the Dean of Religious Education at Brigham Young University. Prior to his current appointment, he served as chair of the department of Ancient Scripture at BYU. He is the author or co-author of over 100 publications including Jerusalem: The Eternal City; New Testament Apostles Testify of Christ; Discoveries in the Judaean Desert: The Unidentified Fragments from Qumran Cave 4 (which is an analysis of all the unidentified Hebrew and Aramaic Dead Sea Scroll texts); Scriptural Parables for the Latter Days, and Gethsemane.
He served a full time mission for the LDS Church from 1970-72 in the California Central Mission and served as Branch President at the Missionary Training Center in Provo. He has also served as a bishop in Colorado and Utah and currently serves as a member of the Correlation Evaluation Committee of the Church.
He and his wife Janet Corbridge reside in Lindon, Utah, and they are the parents of six children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
June 10, 2023
2023 Jun- Beautifully written. Comparable to “Jesus the Christ”.
I loved the imagery from Isaiah 22- the nail in the sure place.
I loved the imagery from Isaiah 22- the nail in the sure place.
August 10, 2026
I’m so thankful for my Savior and for those who teach me more about Him.
March 30, 2019
A few years ago I read the first book in this trilogy (is it still called that if the books are nonfiction?), and while I thought it was good, it didn't wow me. I'm not sure what it was about this one that was different for me -- if it was the book, or my mood/level of spirituality. This book had a profound impact on me. It was a huge reminder of everything the Savior did for me. It brought me to my knees in gratitude and repentance. It was an especially great book to read as Easter is approaching.
December 25, 2018
This book brought me to tears several times when I understand a little portion of what Christ, a perfect man, endured on our behalf. It has has been a year of surprises and testing of faith for me. This book reminded me that our ways are not God's ways and "sometimes life's episodes do not conform to storybook endings. Mortal life is not fair." In the end we will be compensated for every trial, tragedy and sorrow we face. God uses these moments to mold us into who we are destined to be if we seek him. This particular book of the series hit me the hardest as I was overcome with the amount of love one must have to endure such agony.
May 27, 2020
This is an excellent book about the Savior’s final day in mortality! Although written from the perspective of a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints it is a great resource for anyone interested in learning more about Christ’s final hours.
June 25, 2023
Great book. Admittedly, I got more out of Andrew Skinner’s first book of the “series,” “Gethsemane,” but this is still a really incredible book for those who want to better understand Christ’s ultimate act of love.
My greatest takeaway was simply awe for what Jesus went through as He submitted to the tortures of the crucifixion to save the world. The message of “Golgotha” is that it is only through Jesus Christ we are saved and that He paid an unfathomably high price to make that salvation possible.
I also really like how Skinner didn’t stop there though. He implicitly asked and explicitly answered the most important question after receiving a testimony of salvation through Christ - “What did He save us for?” Skinner uses ancient and modern scripture to show that to be changed by Christ, to become like Him, we must walk a part (albeit a small part) of the path He walked. As Christ died of a broken heart, we must offer a broken heart and contrite spirit to Him. As Christ perfectly submitted Himself to the Father’s will, we too must submit ourselves to God’s will. As Christ gave His life to us, so we must consecrate our lives to Him so that He can mold us into new creatures.
He saved us and needs nothing in return for that great gift. But he invites us to partner with Him that we might be changed by Him and become like Him. Great book. Read “Gethsemane” and then, if you liked it, read “Golgotha.”
My greatest takeaway was simply awe for what Jesus went through as He submitted to the tortures of the crucifixion to save the world. The message of “Golgotha” is that it is only through Jesus Christ we are saved and that He paid an unfathomably high price to make that salvation possible.
I also really like how Skinner didn’t stop there though. He implicitly asked and explicitly answered the most important question after receiving a testimony of salvation through Christ - “What did He save us for?” Skinner uses ancient and modern scripture to show that to be changed by Christ, to become like Him, we must walk a part (albeit a small part) of the path He walked. As Christ died of a broken heart, we must offer a broken heart and contrite spirit to Him. As Christ perfectly submitted Himself to the Father’s will, we too must submit ourselves to God’s will. As Christ gave His life to us, so we must consecrate our lives to Him so that He can mold us into new creatures.
He saved us and needs nothing in return for that great gift. But he invites us to partner with Him that we might be changed by Him and become like Him. Great book. Read “Gethsemane” and then, if you liked it, read “Golgotha.”
August 4, 2026
Golgotha is another exceptional work by Andrew C. Skinner that brings history, geography, and scripture together in a thoughtful and engaging way. Through careful research and historical context, the author helps readers gain a deeper understanding of the events surrounding the Crucifixion and the world in which they occurred. Rather than simply recounting familiar accounts, the book provides valuable perspective that makes these events feel more real, personal, and historically grounded.
What I appreciated most was the author's ability to combine scholarship with readability. The historical, cultural, and archaeological insights added depth to my understanding without ever feeling overwhelming. Whether someone approaches the book from a perspective of faith, historical interest, or a desire to better understand one of history's most influential events, there is much to learn and reflect upon.
I found Golgotha to be both educational and inspiring. It encouraged me to think more deeply about the historical setting, the individuals involved, and the lasting significance these events have had throughout history. It's a well-researched and beautifully written book that I would highly recommend to anyone seeking a greater appreciation for this remarkable period of history.
What I appreciated most was the author's ability to combine scholarship with readability. The historical, cultural, and archaeological insights added depth to my understanding without ever feeling overwhelming. Whether someone approaches the book from a perspective of faith, historical interest, or a desire to better understand one of history's most influential events, there is much to learn and reflect upon.
I found Golgotha to be both educational and inspiring. It encouraged me to think more deeply about the historical setting, the individuals involved, and the lasting significance these events have had throughout history. It's a well-researched and beautifully written book that I would highly recommend to anyone seeking a greater appreciation for this remarkable period of history.
May 12, 2025
Like the first born in Israelite society, who was given a double portion of the inheritance to rescue the family and help each member out of their difficulties, Jesus, the first born of all off our Heavenly Father's spirit children used all of his strength, all of his physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual reserves, to rescue his father's family.
This is a hard book to read--He suffered so much, and continued until His Father's will was finished.
This is a hard book to read--He suffered so much, and continued until His Father's will was finished.
September 23, 2017
The knowledge and insights I gained from this book were immeasurable! I am able to visualize and internalize the events of our Saviour's last days with greater detail and clarity. My understanding, gratitude and devotion increased as well.
August 25, 2023
This book is part of a series, and now that I've discovered it, I will be reading the other two. Well researched and written. Even though it deals with a gruesome topic at times, it was my go to book when I wanted a quick way to feel peace or closer to Jesus Christ. Highly recommended.
June 2, 2019
It was okay. Not a lot of deep insight. I thought he was just retelling the new testament in modern English.
November 4, 2020
See my review for The Savior's Final Week by Andrew C. Skinner which is an 3-in-1 volume collection of Gethsemane, Golgotha, and the Garden Tomb.
October 17, 2021
Better than "Gethsemane." Added understanding and I found myself keeping the scriptures handy while I read so I could put notes in them.
April 19, 2022
This is a good straight-forward account of the Holy Week, quoting heavily from the scriptures and latter-day prophets. Reading it was a great way for me to get ready for Easter.
July 3, 2022
This is a great study of the Savior. It hints at Jesus the Christ by Talmage, just easier to read.
February 15, 2024
go go gadget hell on earth apocalypse apocalypse apocalypse apocalypse apocalypse apocalypse apocalypse apocalypse apocalypse apocalypse apocalypse apocalypse apocalypse
October 23, 2024
I cannot begin to express the impact this book has had on my life. I am not the same person.
June 23, 2025
excellent
May 21, 2026
Libby read in the The Saviors Finial Week.
October 3, 2008
I have read a little about the life and suffering of Christ, but I would have to admit that this book (as well as with Gethsemane) have moved up on my favorite books about the Savior list.
Though this book only covers a couple of days time, I think it comes close to rivaling Elder Talmage's Jesus the Christ in information and insight regarding the betrayal, arrest, trial, physical suffering, Christ's spiritual experience on the cross, and his death. Skinner's writing is strongest when he focuses on the history, symbolism, law, and traditions but in this book I finally found some of his personal insights actually quite illuminating. His objectivity is very commendable, and his writing is clear, cogent, and convincing.
Anyone looking to refresh your understanding of the atonement should read this book. The powerful descriptions of Christ's physical and spiritual suffering are moving and it gave me greater personal insight into the ultimate incomprehensible act of love performed by our Master.
Though this book only covers a couple of days time, I think it comes close to rivaling Elder Talmage's Jesus the Christ in information and insight regarding the betrayal, arrest, trial, physical suffering, Christ's spiritual experience on the cross, and his death. Skinner's writing is strongest when he focuses on the history, symbolism, law, and traditions but in this book I finally found some of his personal insights actually quite illuminating. His objectivity is very commendable, and his writing is clear, cogent, and convincing.
Anyone looking to refresh your understanding of the atonement should read this book. The powerful descriptions of Christ's physical and spiritual suffering are moving and it gave me greater personal insight into the ultimate incomprehensible act of love performed by our Master.
October 12, 2016
I honestly probably should have given this book two stars, but I gave it the benefit of the doubt because of the subject matter. Unlike insight-filled Gethsemane, this book was almost entirely a chronological, in sightless history of the last hours of Jesus' life from his betrayal through his burial. It was a good, very detailed reminder of the events and the author certainly was able to explain things based on his knowledge of the times and the region. However, I did not encounter the truths that I enjoyed so much in the prior volume.
January 11, 2013
Etter min mening er denne boken opplysende lesning. Hva skjedde egentlig natt til Langfredag, og før og under korsfestelsen? Skinner har gått i dybden og trekker frem hva rådsherrene gjorde som ikke var lovlig ifølge Moseloven. Boken ga meg en ny forståelse av det som skjedde Langfredag og styrket samtidig mitt vitnesbyrd om Jesus Kristus som min Frelser.
February 26, 2008
This is a MUST read for anyone wanting to know more about the crucifiction and resurrection of Jesus Christ. My mom gave it to me and I could never thank her enough for it! It is so wonderful and of course, make sure you have tissues on hand.
April 27, 2008
I've always loved my Savior, but this book brought the most tender feelings of my heart to the forefront for Him. I felt closer to Him from reading words on a page and also learned a few small facts that I hadn't known before.
March 25, 2009
I wish there was a 1/2 star. This presented some good insights and I liked it better than 3 stars, but it wasn't quite 4 starts for me.
Jesus the Christ is still my all-time favorite on the subject.
Jesus the Christ is still my all-time favorite on the subject.
February 9, 2013
2nd book in the series. Very well written like the first. It is a fairly quick read. Not a lot of new sources, but well organized and shares some interesting perspectives. Makes you really wonder what the Jews were thinking
April 25, 2016
Gained so many new insights with this book. Easy to follow, yet Christ is beautifully portrayed. One of my favorites of the Savior to date and I am looking forward to reading the other two in the series.
March 9, 2008
The second book in the series is as well written as the first. Again, wonderful insights and history behind this period of our Savior's life.
March 13, 2008
If you read Gethsemane you need to continue on to Golgotha
November 23, 2008
It was good. But not as good as Gesthemene I think.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews