Why I Would Have Killed Jesus and You Might Have Too

“At the outset, Nelson asks his readers ‘to consider these accounts charitably, with empathy and compassion.’ These are the very gifts he shows his characters and his audience. This engaging book invites you to experience the Gospels in fresh ways; but more profoundly, it gently urges you to open your heart anew to Jesus and to those with whom you share your pew and your planet. In a world often marred by conflict and discord, this book is a welcome balm.”


—Jeremiah D. Williamson, author of Praying the Scriptures: Litanies for Sunday Worship





“Nelson weaves biblical accounts and imaginative dialogues to create five intelligent characters who find Jesus an amazing prophet but also a dangerous king better to be killed. These short stories bring historical settings and faith questions into sharp relief and provide a compelling ‘Christology from the enemies’ that challenges Christians to search deeper reasons for their commitment to Jesus. Readers will find them familiar, surprising, engaging, and jolting all at the same time.”


—John Yieh, Molly Laird Downs Professor of New Testament, Virginia Theological Seminary