Title: Killing Jesus: A History
Author: Bill O’Reilly
First published September 24, 2013
293 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780805098549 (ISBN10: 0805098542)
Rating: 3.96
Overview
With the same page-turning style and meticulous research that made Killing Kennedy and Killing Lincoln bestsellers, Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard bring us Killing Jesus: A History. This fascinating work of nonfiction delves into the life of Jesus of Nazareth, detailing the events that led to his brutal murder by Roman soldiers.
More than two billion people today attempt to follow his teachings and believe he is God, and this book takes readers inside his life, recounting the political and historical events that made his death inevitable – and changed the course of human history forever. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a gripping read, Killing Jesus is a must-read.
About the Author
Bill O’Reilly is a broadcasting and publishing powerhouse who has achieved unparalleled success. As the iconic anchor of The O’Reilly Factor, he led the program to become the highest-rated cable news broadcast in the United States for an impressive sixteen years.
His website, BillOReilly.com, has a massive following of millions all around the globe.
Mr. O’Reilly has written a remarkable twelve non-fiction books that have all reached the number one spot on the bestseller list, including the widely acclaimed “Killing” series, which explores historical events in intricate detail. With 17 million books in print, he is a literary force to be reckoned with.
With a broadcasting career spanning over four decades, Bill O’Reilly has received numerous awards for his work, including three Emmys and various other prestigious journalism accolades. He has held top positions at CBS News, ABC News, and WCBS-TV in New York City, among others.
In addition to his broadcasting and publishing achievements, Mr. O’Reilly has also been nominated for two Emmys for his work on the movies “Killing Kennedy” and “Killing Jesus.” He holds a history degree from Marist College, a master’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from Boston University, and another master’s degree from Harvard’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.
Despite his impressive career accomplishments, Bill O’Reilly remains grounded and true to his roots. He still lives on Long Island, where he was raised, and has devoted a significant amount of time and resources to philanthropic endeavors.
His charitable contributions have raised tens of millions of dollars for people in need and wounded American veterans.
Editoral Review
Killing Jesus: A History by Bill O’Reilly is a meticulously researched and engrossing account of the life, teachings, and death of Jesus Christ. Published in 2013, the book is a testament to O’Reilly’s skills as a historian and storyteller, and his ability to weave together complex historical and religious themes in a compelling and accessible manner.
The book introduces O’Reilly’s unique style of blending history, religion, and storytelling to offer readers a fresh perspective on one of the most influential figures in human history. O’Reilly begins by contextualizing Jesus’ life, including the political climate and cultural customs of ancient Palestine, which helps readers understand the social, religious, and political forces that shaped his ministry and ultimately led to his death.
O’Reilly’s portrayal of Jesus is nuanced, highlighting his charismatic leadership, his powerful oratory, and his ability to heal the sick and perform miracles. The author also offers a vivid portrayal of the many characters who would later become his disciples, including Peter, James, and John.
The book paints a picture of a desperate and oppressed people, yearning for a savior to deliver them from Roman oppression, and the Jews did not accept Jesus as the Messiah. One of the strengths of the book is how it interweaves historical fact with dramatic storytelling.
O’Reilly is a master at creating suspenseful and emotionally charged scenes that read like a historical thriller. The book brings ancient Jerusalem to life through vivid descriptions of its bustling markets, temple rituals, and political intrigue.
The author also brings readers into the mindsets of the many groups that opposed Jesus, including the religious authorities, the Roman governor, and the Zealots. However, the book also has some weaknesses.
Some critics argue that O’Reilly’s narrative is sometimes overly simplistic, and his portrayal of historical figures such as Pontius Pilate is one-dimensional. Also, the book lacks the in-depth theological analysis that many religious scholars would expect when discussing the significance of Jesus’ teachings and miracles.
In conclusion, Killing Jesus is a fascinating and well-written book that will appeal to anyone interested in the history of Christianity or ancient history in general. While some critics have argued that the book’s narrative is overly simplistic, it remains an excellent work of historical storytelling.
It is highly recommended for those who want a riveting account of the life, teachings, and death of Jesus Christ. The book receives a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars for its compelling storytelling, meticulous research, and vivid descriptions of the world in which Jesus lived.
