The Murder of Jesus

by John F. MacArthur Jr.

To many, the story of Christ's crucifixion has become so familiar that it has lost its ability to shock, outrage or stir any great emotion. In The Murder of Jesus , John MacArthur presents this pivotal moment in the life of Jesus in a way that forces readers to witness this event in all its power. The passion of Christ is examined chronologically through the lens of the New Testament with special attention given to Jesus' words on the cross, the miracle that attended the cruxifixion, and the significance of Christ's atoning work.

Genres: Christian, Theology, Christianity, Nonfiction, Christian Living, History, Religion

320 pages, Hardcover

First published March 7, 2000

About the author

John F. MacArthur, Jr. was a United States Calvinistic evangelical writer and minister, noted for his radio program entitled Grace to You and as the editor of the Gold Medallion Book Award-winning MacArthur Study Bible. MacArthur was a fifth-generation pastor, a popular author and conference speaker, and served as pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California beginning in 1969, as well as President of The Master’s College (and the related Master’s Seminary) in Santa Clarita, California.

Reviews

[Dave Weiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

John MacArthur is one of those writers that just provokes thought. In this amazing book, MacArthur directs the last day of Jesus' earthly life and it's a brilliant work. He gives so much background information that the story just seems to jump off the page. I will refrain from saying MacArthur brings the Scripture to life, because the Scripture is already alive and life giving, but he really helps his reader to understand better the most important event in the most important life in human history.

This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to better understand what Christ did on the cross. I recommend this book to everyone. It is just that good.

[Grant Blackmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been a Christian for 11 years, and grown up in church my entire life. I can honestly that this book deepened my love for Christ. MacArthur does a fabulous job of presenting the political realities that were at play in the murder of Jesus. He clearly shows the depravity, she evil intentions of those who put him to death, while emphasizing Christ's sovereignty over the situation. Christ's love for His people is immense, and His atonement as the sacrificial Lamb is humbling. This is the most impactful book I've read this year.

[AlegnaB † · Rating 5 out of 5]

5.0 -- I recommend this for reading anytime, but especially during Easter season.

[Ed · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent commentary on the trial, death, and resurrection of Christ. MacArthur goes chronological thru the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John giving a thorough study on verses one by one through the gospels. This book is well written showing the suffering and agony and the law breaking that our Lord suffered by the Romans and Jews.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent description of the timeline leading up to and during the crucifixion of Christ.

[Jadah · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Murder of Jesus by John F. MacArthur Jr. is a profound exploration of one of history's most pivotal events – the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. MacArthur's meticulous research and theological insights provide a deep understanding of the significance and impact of this event on Christianity and the world.

What makes this book a great read is MacArthur's ability to weave together biblical scripture with historical context, allowing readers to grasp the emotional and spiritual dimensions of Jesus' sacrifice. His clear and engaging writing style makes complex theological concepts accessible to a wide audience, whether you're a seasoned scholar or new to the faith.

Throughout the book, readers will find valuable insights that provoke thought and inspire deeper reflection on the meaning of Jesus' death and its implications for believers today. MacArthur's passion for the subject shines through, making it impossible not to feel moved by the narrative he presents.

I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith. It's an excellent resource for Bible studies, and it has certainly enriched my own. In fact, I was so impressed that I ordered a physical copy to keep on hand for further reference. Whether you're looking to enhance your spiritual journey or simply seeking a compelling read, The Murder of Jesus is a must-have addition to your bookshelf.

[Marc Herbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

I first heard Dr MacArthur preach in 1990, and his sermons helped me to decide to become a Christian at that time. His deep love for the Bible and his scholarship into its meaning was impressive and inspiring. One subject always bothered me about his theology, though: his intense disrespect for the traditions (he called them "superstitions") of Eastern Orthodoxy, Judaism and Roman Catholicism.

Instead of focusing on the many common features of worshipping God, MacArthur insulted our brothers and sisters who did not share his non-denominational Protestantism. For Lent this year, I decided to pick up this book, written in 2000 and revised in 2004, and I had hoped that his theology had matured past this tendency. Although his scholarship remains incredibly insightful, Dr MacArthur continues to neglect the beauty of traditional expressions of worship.

Still, this book is amazing, walking us through the Passion of Christ, from the Last Supper to Jesus' death on the Cross. MacArthur's knowledge of the Bible and ability to link Old Testament writings with New Testament writings brings an incredible fullness to these familiar events. This book is an important contribution to our faith and should be read by anyone who wants to better appreciate the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior at Calvary ---

[Jonathan Vasgar · Rating 5 out of 5]

“So don’t ever pass over the meaning of the death of Christ on your way to celebrate the Resurrection. It is the Cross that gives meaning to the resurrection life. Only insofar as we are united with Him in the likeness of His death can we be certain of being raised with Him in the likeness of His resurrection. That is why ‘Jesus Christ and Him crucified’ remains the very heart and soul of the Gospel message.” John MacArthur Philippians 3:10-11 “that I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; if by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.”

[Kate Lendley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started reading this book right after Passion week (2018). This is the most poignant book I have read on the events leading up to the crucifixion of Christ. If you are looking for a book that gives depth to the details surrounding Jesus' betrayal, arrest, trial, and crucifixion this is the book to read. Pastor MacArthur, as always, expertly unpacks the final days and hours of Jesus' life. Be challenged and encouraged and spurred on in your walk with Jesus as you unpack the details of his final moments on earth.

[Rachel Grepke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too often many people don't fully take in the cross of Christ. This book will change that. Written with clarity, Biblical knowledge and intention, and a desire for truth, it leads you down a path of understanding. The cross is central to the Christian faith. We must never forget what all the cross means and stands for. My heart is grieved for Jesus, but also for the world. This is a must read for every believer.

[Isobelpoe · Rating 4 out of 5]

My manager at work and I discussed purchasing this book because the cover caught her eye too. I am glad I got it. It is an intense read, much like carrying the entire movie of The Passion of The Christ around in your mind, one paragraph at a time. MacArthur is a cessationist and for lack of a better turn of phrase, I ain't. I decided that reading the book anyway could be enlightening for other reasons and it was.

[Matt Crawford · Rating 4 out of 5]

The murder of Jesus is a simple play by play of the events of the trial and cucifixioj of Jesus. It is void of the burial and resurrection because this is about the events preceding the death. it really asks the question, who killed Jesus. Choices explored including Judas, the Jewish leaders, the Roman’s, and God Himself. Many of MacArthurs books are essentially chapters of sermons but this is more narrative.

[Myles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rather than being a deep study on doctrine, this book is written in the form of a historical narrative concerning the death of Jesus. It is an easy read, but it is also incredibly heart-stirring and rich with detail. Though the murder of Jesus was the tragedy of all tragedies, one cannot walk away from reading this book without loving the providential sovereignty of God that guided every moment of it.

[Phillip III · Rating 5 out of 5]

Apparently, MacArthur wrote this book after the release of Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ.

It is a pretty intimate look at the final days of Jesus' life -- from the Last Supper to His death on the cross.

MacArthur writes so smoothly and with knowledge that each chapter is filled with complex explanations made simple for readers understanding. This is the second book I have read by MacArthur. I will be reading more.

Phil

[Loredelcarmen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aprendí mucho con este libro sobre las últimas horas de Jesús en la tierra, Tiene información importante. John MacArthur explica con claridad cada pasaje de la biblia de manera sencilla y clara. Sólo en una cosa no estoy de acuerdo, cuando toca el tema de la Sangre de Jesús, él no le da el valor que realmente tiene.

[Martin L'Hébreux · Rating 5 out of 5]

Le Meurtre de Jésus est un livre très édifiant. MacArthur y décrit avec clarté et précision la passion de Christ, en s’appuyant sur de nombreux versets bibliques. Fidèle aux Écritures, il nous invite à une méditation profonde sur le sacrifice de Jésus. C’est une lecture qui touche le cœur et fortifie la foi.

[Benjamin Varner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative with biblical and external historical references into Jesus and the disciples Passover feast through Christ's death and immediately after. Passing the book on to my other believer brothers.

[Junver Arcayna · Rating 4 out of 5]

The journey of Jesus towards death as explained in every detail is heartwarming. Heartwarming because we are never lost in His thoughts. He went through it because of His love for us.

"It is the Cross that gives meaning to the resurrection of life."

[T.J. Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Great and Practical Treatise

You can depend on Dr. MacArthur to deliver a concise, well researched, thought out and thought provoking treatise everytime, and this is no exception.

[Li Pengyao · Rating 5 out of 5]

clear explanation of the cause and mock trail of murdering Jesus

a great book with great details collected from history and theology. Pastor John, a marvelous man with great love toward his savior, a living example of a true Christian even though he is not on earth anymore.

[Rod Innis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book on the death of Jesus.

[Joc-e-lyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

As usual, MacArthur did a wonderful job regarding the subject of the crucifixion of Christ, before and after.

[Janet Stinnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read!

Oh what Love Our God has for Us & the sacrifice Our Lord & Savior endured for Us.. God is Good...ALL THE TIME!!! Love My Jesus ♥️

[Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

very difficult to read....but interesting.

[Shaun Marksbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent and detailed review of Christ's final hours. Easy to read... but rough to think through. Jesus allowed all this for His sheep.

[Jared Jones · Rating 3 out of 5]

An informative read with some extra historical context I was not aware of. It would have been nice if there were more citations to verify some of the information, though.

[Elizabeth Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A hard read, simply because of the topic, but so good to dive deep into these events especially around Easter. Well worth reading again!

[Jeff Flowers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book and very eerie things during the crucifixion that I won't go into.

[Andy Febrico Bintoro · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christology on how and what for Jesus died. What events preceded His death.

[Devin Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is probably the most informative book on the arrest, sham trial, crucifixion, and death of Jesus ever written.