Killing Jesus: A History

Martin Dugard is a nonfiction writer and journalist who has written for magazines such as Competitor and Runner’s World. With Bill O’Reilly, he is the co-author of the Killing series. His other books focus primarily on endurance sports and adventure.

Dugard complements Bill O’Reilly’s journalistic approach by providing research and historical depth. Dugard’s prior collaborations with O’Reilly showcase his interest in making history accessible. Dugard seeks to vividly recreate historical contexts, drawing readers into the political, cultural, and religious dynamics of the time. Dugard’s research ensures that the book is somewhat historically grounded, while his narrative skills help bring the ancient world to life. His focus on historical figures and events that shape pivotal moments in history helps tell the story of Jesus’s life, crucifixion, and its aftermath.

Jesus emerged during a time of Roman occupation in Judea, when Jewish society was marked by religious tension, political unrest, and anticipation of a messianic figure. His teachings, which emphasized love, forgiveness, and the coming of the “Kingdom of God,” attracted a growing following among the Jewish poor and marginalized. Jesus challenged the religious authorities of the time—particularly the Pharisees and Sadducees—by criticizing their legalism and the commercialization of temple practices, leading to tensions between him and the Jewish elite.

Jesus’s significance goes beyond his role as a spiritual leader. His increasing popularity was perceived as a political threat by both the Jewish religious leaders and the Roman authorities. His claim to spiritual authority, along with his symbolic actions, such as his entrance into Jerusalem on a donkey, positioned him as a potential messianic figure, raising fears of rebellion against Roman rule. His crucifixion by the Romans, under pressure from the Jewish leadership, marked a pivotal event in both Jewish and early Christian history, ultimately giving rise to the Christian faith and transforming Jesus into a central figure in world history.

Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great, was a significant figure in Judea’s history during the early first century CE. He played a crucial role in maintaining Roman influence over Jewish territories while navigating the complex political and religious landscape of the time. Antipas is most remembered for his involvement in the events surrounding John the Baptist and Jesus of Nazareth, both of whom he regarded as threats to the stability of his rule.

Herod Antipas is historically significant for his efforts to align with Roman authorities while placating his Jewish subjects. His relationship with Rome was symbolized by his construction of the city of Tiberias, named in honor of the Roman Emperor Tiberius, which served as his capital. However, his domestic rule was marked by tensions. His decision to marry Herodias, his brother’s wife, violated Jewish law and caused scandal, leading to public condemnation by John the Baptist, whose subsequent imprisonment and execution Antipas ordered.

Herod Antipas’s role in the trial of Jesus further cemented his historical significance. While he did not directly condemn Jesus, he played a key part in the political maneuvering between Jewish and Roman authorities during Jesus’s final days.

Pontius Pilate holds significant historical importance due to his role in overseeing the trial and crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth. Pilate governed a volatile province, tasked with maintaining Roman law and order while managing tensions between Roman authorities and the Jewish population. His position required balancing the demands of the Jewish religious leaders and the expectations of the Roman Empire.

Pilate’s handling of Jesus’s trial has become one of the most scrutinized moments of his governance. Although Pilate reportedly found no basis for Jesus’s execution, he ultimately authorized the crucifixion to appease the Sanhedrin and prevent potential unrest during the politically charged time of Passover. His decision reflects the pragmatic, often harsh, leadership style needed to manage Roman provinces under occupation.

Beyond Jesus’s trial, Pilate is known for his harsh rule and clashes with the Jewish population. Pilate’s legacy is marked by his role in Jesus’s death, making him a central figure in both historical and religious contexts.