Amazon.com (ISBN 0849915546, Hardcover)

While history is overrun with stories of injustice that stir us to anger and outrage, the death of Jesus has become so familiar that often it fails to elicit such a response. In The Murder of Jesus, John MacArthur (The Gospel According to Jesus) writes that the crucifixion of Jesus "was the greatest travesty of justice the world will ever see... He was cruelly executed by men who openly acknowledged His faultlessness." At the same time, however, His death was purposed by God to secure salvation for sinners.

In this historical narrative, MacArthur gives a complete biblical account of the events leading up to and including Jesus' crucifixion. This chronological examination includes a detailed look at everything from Judas's betrayal to Peter's denial to Christ's final words on the cross and the significance of His atoning work. In the midst of the drama, MacArthur draws out personal points in regard to handling unjust suffering, as well as examples of the disciples' faulty faith. MacArthur's most poignant question, however, asks the reader to investigate who is responsible for Jesus' death. The answer might surprise you even while it elevates you to a new level of doctrinal maturity by shedding light on God's sovereignty during the most devilish murder in history. --Jill Heatherly