Behold The Man In March Analysis

Behold the Man concludes the Jerusalem Chronicles by Bodie and Brock Thoene. Despite being a long time fan of the Thoene's this series did not meet expectations. It began well with When Jesus Wept, a dramatic retelling of Christ's friendship with Lazarus and the miracle in which Lazarus is raised to life. Take This Cup, was a drastic departure from the Thoene's usual style of writing and I set the book aside — unfinished. Yet, when my book club decided to read Behold the Man in March, due in part to how it would coincide nicely with Easter, I agreed. Therefore, prior to our meeting I'd wanted to share my thoughts with you.

To begin, historical fiction particularly biblical fiction is my all time favorite genre. Admittedly, my standards for

biblical fiction are higher than other genres because, in the hands of an unbeliever or un-read church goer, these books have the potential to skew their beliefs about biblical events or persons. I found two particular instances that the authors manipulated scripture. I understand that this is a work of fiction, however this bothered me because the changes had no bearing on the story. Hence, why not hold to the truth? (Mathew 14:1-21 & Mark 4:10)

My other complaints stem from what I perceive to be a weak storyline and characters. I read what was happening to them but my heart never engaged. As the story goes, Caesar has assigned Pilate to the governorship of Judea as a final opportunity to prove himself. The pressure to perform only intensifies the mans loathsome qualities, of which abusing his wife takes center stage. To me, depravity and man's ambition overshadowed the more important message of Christ's mission, sacrifice and resurrection.

I've not given up on the Thoene's, I've just determined this series was not written for me. Perhaps it will strike others differently and for that reason I am looking forward to our book club discussion.