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Crucify!: Why the Crowd Killed Jesus
An Ancient Murder Mystery On Sunday they jammed the streets celebrating his arrival. But on Friday they were screaming for his blood.What prompted this stunning reversal? Why did this man’s followers and friends demand his death?Crucify! reveals the motive behind the most heinous murder of all time. Timothy J. Stoner mines the Gospels to expose Jesus’s secret agenda and uncovers his dangerous and provocative mission. Is there something about this young Rabbi that we have failed to understand or appreciate?Answering these questions raises another—one that is more If we’d been there, would we have joined with the scandalized crowd crying Crucify?--The son of missionary parents, Timothy J. Stoner grew up in Chile and Spain. After graduating from Cedarville University and attending Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, Stoner graduated from Cooley Law School in 1987. Timothy and Patty, his wife of over thirty years, have five children.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 10, 2014
27 people are currently reading
356 people want to read
About the author
Timothy J. Stoner
6 books8 followersThe son of missionary parents, Timothy J. Stoner grew up in Chile and Spain.
After graduating from Cedarville University and attending Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, Stoner graduated from Cooley Law School in 1987. Tim has been married to Patty Grace Stoner for over thirty years. They have five children, the youngest of which was adopted from Mozambique, Africa. They all live in Grand Rapids.
After graduating from Cedarville University and attending Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, Stoner graduated from Cooley Law School in 1987. Tim has been married to Patty Grace Stoner for over thirty years. They have five children, the youngest of which was adopted from Mozambique, Africa. They all live in Grand Rapids.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 9, 2014
I went in skimming, slowed down to actually read what the author wrote, and came away impressed by how the author had put together things in the Gospels I hadn't fully thought through yet. If you can get a free copy on Amazon, it'll certainly make you think more about Jesus' uncomfortable and sin-challenging gauntlets thrown down at the crowds. If you can't get it free, I'd recommend buying it. It would be worthwhile to show to people who think that the Pharisees and the Sadducees were the only ones with hypocrisy and pride problems in the early BC years.
Fuller review here: http://reformedfiction.blogspot.com/2...
Fuller review here: http://reformedfiction.blogspot.com/2...
April 3, 2015
Fascinating and well researched details in this intriguing book not only invite readers into Biblical time and place, but also verify the legitimacy of Luke as a great historian, and of the other gospel writers as honest recorders of what they knew. Why don’t we hear of Jesus childhood – surely important to the mythology of such a great figure, if he were myth? Why don’t we hear of him living in Bethlehem as prophesied – wouldn’t this have been hugely important to the writers? Why does he tell people to keep his miracles secret if he wants to be famous? Why does he teach in parables if he wants to be understood? And why did the crowd who followed him around suddenly turn and cry “Crucify”?
Biblical references, familiar and unfamiliar, abound in this book, together with background detail that deepens their meanings. By the end, it all ties together into a convincing image of a man who, contrary perhaps to revisionist modern expectations, knew exactly who he was and did nothing by accident.
The author answers the arguments of Zealot author, Reza Asla, with clear example and explanation. At the same time, he combines the gospel timelines convincingly into a whole that constantly surprises the reader, even with familiar events. The book is beautifully written, thoroughly enthralling and intriguing, and an enjoyably satisfying read, especially as Easter approaches.
Disclosure: It was free and I couldn’t resist. It’s just my sort of thing.
Biblical references, familiar and unfamiliar, abound in this book, together with background detail that deepens their meanings. By the end, it all ties together into a convincing image of a man who, contrary perhaps to revisionist modern expectations, knew exactly who he was and did nothing by accident.
The author answers the arguments of Zealot author, Reza Asla, with clear example and explanation. At the same time, he combines the gospel timelines convincingly into a whole that constantly surprises the reader, even with familiar events. The book is beautifully written, thoroughly enthralling and intriguing, and an enjoyably satisfying read, especially as Easter approaches.
Disclosure: It was free and I couldn’t resist. It’s just my sort of thing.
May 12, 2014
A Fresh Look at an Old Story
This book broke my heart, brought me to tears and gave me a new perspective on story I've heard my entire life. Reading from a Christian standpoint I have never read a book that put gospels in the context of history and culture as this one did, leading me through Jesus's life not just as a story or teaching but as a search for what rang true and why.
This book broke my heart, brought me to tears and gave me a new perspective on story I've heard my entire life. Reading from a Christian standpoint I have never read a book that put gospels in the context of history and culture as this one did, leading me through Jesus's life not just as a story or teaching but as a search for what rang true and why.
November 26, 2014
When the author watched The Passion of the Christ, he began to wonder how crowds could sing and dance upon Jesus' arrival to Jerusalem on a Sunday, and then cry out for his crucifixion a mere five days later.
This book begins with Jesus' ministry to set the scene and provide background information. It then focuses on His final days of life. Throughout the book, the author respectfully discusses how his views of Jesus and his contemporaries differ from those in Reza Azlan's popular book, Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth. He gives sound reasoning behind these views. It is then explained how the people could swing from one extreme to the other in such a short time frame.
Not only is the author skilled with details for study, but he is also an amazing storyteller. He painted pictures in my mind of Jesus that will stick with me forever. I enjoyed how he discussed the differences in the authors of the gospels -- and how those differences led to the details they each chose to include in their narratives about Jesus. This books is informational, but it will also touch you deeply.
This book begins with Jesus' ministry to set the scene and provide background information. It then focuses on His final days of life. Throughout the book, the author respectfully discusses how his views of Jesus and his contemporaries differ from those in Reza Azlan's popular book, Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth. He gives sound reasoning behind these views. It is then explained how the people could swing from one extreme to the other in such a short time frame.
Not only is the author skilled with details for study, but he is also an amazing storyteller. He painted pictures in my mind of Jesus that will stick with me forever. I enjoyed how he discussed the differences in the authors of the gospels -- and how those differences led to the details they each chose to include in their narratives about Jesus. This books is informational, but it will also touch you deeply.
April 15, 2014
This was a really good read. It was eye opening for sure. As someone who has grown up in the church it puts things into perspective. It sure makes you look at what you would have done back in that time.
March 30, 2018
Stoner walks us through the whole life of Jesus, pointing out the multitude of ways in which He forced the Israelite people, collectively & individually, to examine their preconceived ideas of what their Messiah would look like, and to decide if Jesus matched that vision or not. If not, they'd then have to decide if they were going to accept His new embodiment of the Christ or reject Him completely. Most everyone rejected Jesus as Messiah, and Stoner provides ample evidence as to why: Jesus did not meet expectations. Though there's lots of conjecture of details that we can't possibly know, overall "Crucify" is a solid, informative book that forces the reader to face the same question that Israel faced 2,000 years ago: is Jesus the Messiah?
September 25, 2017
A brilliant look at the greatest story ever told as this must be the best book I have read on the subject of Christ. It is exceptionally well researched and takes a fresh look at the gospels. I have read quite a number of books on this subject but I must admit to being absolutely blown away by this book. Mr Stoner really brings the times alive, the poverty and the disease and the healing in Christs short
ministry. This book has to be read.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!!
ministry. This book has to be read.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!!
September 5, 2017
excellent read!
July 3, 2018
Good perspective
I really enjoyed reading this book. It gave good insight and perspective to the time leading up to the crucifixion and the 50 plus days after.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It gave good insight and perspective to the time leading up to the crucifixion and the 50 plus days after.
September 24, 2020
Very compelling read
Liked how the narrative was referenced and refuted by the very arguments of those who call it legend and myth.
Liked how the narrative was referenced and refuted by the very arguments of those who call it legend and myth.
April 7, 2021
This is a great read!
June 18, 2023
Nothing new.
I've always insisted the crowd itself was innocent. Nice to find someone who agrees.
I've always insisted the crowd itself was innocent. Nice to find someone who agrees.
March 7, 2017
Amazing book
This book is the best I have read on the crucifixion. It made it so vivid like I was there. Really gives the motivations of the leaders and in the end the crowds. I am so thankful I was led to it. I just can't say enough. Thank you Mr. Stoner for gifting us wit it.
This book is the best I have read on the crucifixion. It made it so vivid like I was there. Really gives the motivations of the leaders and in the end the crowds. I am so thankful I was led to it. I just can't say enough. Thank you Mr. Stoner for gifting us wit it.
December 26, 2014
Decent book with an interesting perspective
On Palm Sunday, the crowds cheered for Jesus. On Friday morning, they screamed for His death. What could cause such a dramatic change in their attitude toward this young rabbi? This is the central question of Stoner's book, and to answer it he examines the entire life of Jesus. In doing so, he points out numerous instances where Jesus raises expectations and hopes only to dash them. At the heart of this repeated rise and fall of the crowd's hopes is a profound misunderstanding of Jesus's intentions. His followers look for a Messiah to come with a sword against Rome and to inaugurate an earthly kingdom for the Jews. Yet Jesus knows that He has come for no such thing; He is the Lamb of God come to take away the sins of the world. He has come not to kill, but to die. He comes not to conquer Romans, but to conquer Death. The clash of these two personalities, the Messiah who was expected and the Messiah that actually comes, is the basis for the sudden shift in the crowd, the sudden change from fawning followers to fanatical enemies. Stoner does an admirable job tracing the growing discontent of the crowds with Jesus. His conclusion, that the crowd was plagued by a fundamental misunderstanding of Jesus' mission, is sound, and he proves it with numerous examples. Especially interesting is his exploration of the Disciples' own misunderstandings, and the ultimate revelation of this in their falling away that occurs on the night of their teacher's betrayal.
One of the book's strengths is Stoner's deconstruction of Aslan's arguments in his recent book, "Zealot." I would have liked to see more of this. It becomes painfully apparent that Aslan's contentions are flawed and, like those fickle followers in the first century, reflect a profound misunderstanding of Jesus of Nazareth.
Overall, this was a good book, and worthy reading for any Christian or for anyone interested in that bizarre and contentious rabbi whose brutal death changed the world.
On Palm Sunday, the crowds cheered for Jesus. On Friday morning, they screamed for His death. What could cause such a dramatic change in their attitude toward this young rabbi? This is the central question of Stoner's book, and to answer it he examines the entire life of Jesus. In doing so, he points out numerous instances where Jesus raises expectations and hopes only to dash them. At the heart of this repeated rise and fall of the crowd's hopes is a profound misunderstanding of Jesus's intentions. His followers look for a Messiah to come with a sword against Rome and to inaugurate an earthly kingdom for the Jews. Yet Jesus knows that He has come for no such thing; He is the Lamb of God come to take away the sins of the world. He has come not to kill, but to die. He comes not to conquer Romans, but to conquer Death. The clash of these two personalities, the Messiah who was expected and the Messiah that actually comes, is the basis for the sudden shift in the crowd, the sudden change from fawning followers to fanatical enemies. Stoner does an admirable job tracing the growing discontent of the crowds with Jesus. His conclusion, that the crowd was plagued by a fundamental misunderstanding of Jesus' mission, is sound, and he proves it with numerous examples. Especially interesting is his exploration of the Disciples' own misunderstandings, and the ultimate revelation of this in their falling away that occurs on the night of their teacher's betrayal.
One of the book's strengths is Stoner's deconstruction of Aslan's arguments in his recent book, "Zealot." I would have liked to see more of this. It becomes painfully apparent that Aslan's contentions are flawed and, like those fickle followers in the first century, reflect a profound misunderstanding of Jesus of Nazareth.
Overall, this was a good book, and worthy reading for any Christian or for anyone interested in that bizarre and contentious rabbi whose brutal death changed the world.
September 7, 2016
This book was such a fantastic read and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to further their knowledge of the Gospels, even if you have read them countless times there is always more to discover and this book will ad you in that discovery.
The book paints a strong and vivid picture of the times Jesus was living in and why what He said and did caused such offence.
The author draws you into understand and reflect on the accounts of the Gospels in ways you might not have reflected on before.
The book paints a strong and vivid picture of the times Jesus was living in and why what He said and did caused such offence.
The author draws you into understand and reflect on the accounts of the Gospels in ways you might not have reflected on before.
May 27, 2015
First Row Witness/Testigo en primera fila
That's what I fell when I was reading "Crucify" ,that I was watching the Pasion unfold in front of my eyes,with all of the details of the front row witness.I love it
Eso es precisamente lo que senti cuando estaba leyendo "Crucifiquenlo",era como un testigo en primera fila observando la Pasion del Senior desarrollandose delante de mis propios ojos con todos los detalles.
Me a gustado mucho y lo recomiendo (es en ingles)
That's what I fell when I was reading "Crucify" ,that I was watching the Pasion unfold in front of my eyes,with all of the details of the front row witness.I love it
Eso es precisamente lo que senti cuando estaba leyendo "Crucifiquenlo",era como un testigo en primera fila observando la Pasion del Senior desarrollandose delante de mis propios ojos con todos los detalles.
Me a gustado mucho y lo recomiendo (es en ingles)
June 1, 2014
Powerful
This book sets out to answer an important question, how could a people who celebrated Christ's arrival on Palm Sunday call for his death less than a week later? The arguments are well reasoned and backed up by scriptures and rebuttals for counterargument. It was tough reading emotionally but very important.
This book sets out to answer an important question, how could a people who celebrated Christ's arrival on Palm Sunday call for his death less than a week later? The arguments are well reasoned and backed up by scriptures and rebuttals for counterargument. It was tough reading emotionally but very important.
July 30, 2014
A must read
much of this I had either read or had been told by a Jewess I once worked for. Understanding the different aspects of a situation is necessary to truly understand the situation. This book opens up many avenues that I don't think many are aware of.
much of this I had either read or had been told by a Jewess I once worked for. Understanding the different aspects of a situation is necessary to truly understand the situation. This book opens up many avenues that I don't think many are aware of.
January 6, 2015
thought-provoking
Why did everyone turn against Jesus? Why did Jesus go out of his way to obscure his identity and mission? This book goes through his life exploring these questions, and provides reasonably satisfactory answers. Gave me a few new ideas. Definitely worth reading.
Why did everyone turn against Jesus? Why did Jesus go out of his way to obscure his identity and mission? This book goes through his life exploring these questions, and provides reasonably satisfactory answers. Gave me a few new ideas. Definitely worth reading.
September 1, 2015
Great book concerning the scandal of grace and why thousands of adoring people yelled crucify in the end.
March 14, 2018
Very informative and down to earth, presents a new perspective
October 15, 2015
Helps one to understand who by and how Jesus was crucified. Well written, well thought out. I will be rereading soon.
July 25, 2016
Stunning!
A true work of art about the most pivotal days in human history. A secret is brought to light and answered with the revelations in this book.
A true work of art about the most pivotal days in human history. A secret is brought to light and answered with the revelations in this book.
September 11, 2016
Not for me .
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews