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Tag Archives: Roman centurion

Easter Morning: Excerpt 22 from The Soldier Who Killed a King

17 Sunday Apr 2022

Posted by davidkitz in Easter Sunday

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

angel, Jesus, Roman centurion, warrior

A journey to the cross is a journey to repentance. It’s a journey to deep personal change. Will you take this journey with me?

Date: Nine in the morning, Sunday, April 9, 30 A.D.
Marcus Longinus, the Roman centurion, investigates his soldiers’ report that Jesus had risen from the dead.

It was as they said. The stone was rolled away. But it was not merely rolled to the side as I had expected. It had been pushed right up and out of its stone track, and it had toppled over a good distance from the tomb entrance.
I edged my way toward it. About two paces from the end of the stone track, there was gouge in the shallow soil, where the round cover stone had landed and then rolled. This was a real headshaker. How had this happened? It must have been rolled back with such force that when it reached the end of the track, it bounced up and out. No wonder the men were scared! This was awesome. Forty men could not do this!
Suddenly I felt very small, small and afraid.

OTT0304-KITZ1

Photo credit Jean Levac, Ottawa Citizen

And this was the very stone we had sealed just a day earlier. A close examination showed that in a few spots there were still fragments of broken plaster on it. I exhaled a huge puff of air. This discovery in itself was beyond all expectation. The force of the quake could not have done this. A quake of such magnitude would have collapsed the tomb itself, and not a building in the city would be standing. No, a direct force had hurled this boulder away from the tomb’s entrance.
An almighty warrior from heaven’s realm?
I rejoined my two men. Suddenly they gained a new level of respect in my eyes. Their fears had become my own. I found I was rolling my head from side to side just as I had seen Claudius do.

“You saw this happen?” I gestured to the fallen round rock and then put a finger to my lips. I was astounded.
“Actually,” Philip admitted, “I didn’t see him roll the stone. We all fell like dead men when the earthquake hit. But after, when I opened my eyes, the angel was sitting on it, and . . . and Jesus was walking out of the tomb.” He fell to his knees and began to beat the ground as he said this last part. He was gripped afresh by the memory.
“Where were you when this happened?” He raised his head and pointed to a spot a few paces away. “Right there.”
“And you?” I looked at Claudius. He pointed to another spot. “Just over here,” he said. “That’s my cloak. I left it when I ran.”
There was, in fact, a good bit of flotsam scattered about: a few cloaks, a water jug, Philip’s precious dice, even a helmet. Here were all the signs of panicked flight. They had left all and fled for their lives.
For me only one question remained. Was the open tomb truly empty?
“Get to your feet, Philip,” I said. “You two stay here and watch while I go take a look inside.”
I took three deep breaths and set out on my little journey. It was only about twenty paces4485 SHARABLE-2 to the tomb entrance. A distance made much longer by my fear. But the whole scene was bathed in the warmth of morning sunlight. I started slowly. About halfway to the entrance, a songbird broke forth in glorious melody. The sun’s rays streamed into the rock tomb, lighting my way.
It was empty! The stone slab lay empty. Actually, it was not entirely so. The death shroud had been rolled up, and the face covering was neatly folded and lay off to one side. It appeared as though the awakened corpse took a moment to make his bed after getting up.
The Galilean prophet, the true king, had arisen and gone forth!

American readers click this link to purchase The Soldier Who Killed a King.

Canadian readers click this link to purchase The Soldier Who Killed a King directly from the author.

THE SOLDIER WHO KILLED A KING: the most cinematic account of the Passion of Christ that I have ever read.

06 Sunday Mar 2022

Posted by davidkitz in Books by David Kitz

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

David Kitz, Jesus Christ, Messiah, Passion of Christ, Roman centurion

A book review by Alex Szollo

Entire libraries can be filled with accounts of the life and times of Jesus Christ, worshipped by billions of people all over the world as the Son of God, the Messiah, the Savior of the world, and all this has, of course, developed over the course of time. I’ve always been fascinated with the world into which Jesus was born, lived, died and was raised to life again. I’ve seen countless movies based on His life, and I’ve read a wealth of fiction books, from all sorts of perspectives.

I think it’s safe to say that after years of reading about Christ, I found the most gripping, dramatic account of His passion that I’ve ever read. It arrived in the form of a novel called THE SOLDIER WHO KILLED A KING, written by David Kitz, whom I wholeheartedly thank for the signed copy of the novel. I also hereby declare that the views you are about to read are entirely my own. This is what this book fully deserves, because, to say it briefly, it’s awesome!

The novel is written from the point of view of Marcus Longinus, a Roman soldier who observes the effect that Jesus has on the people of Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, which is the event that starts the story. Over the course of a week, this man’s entire life is turned upside down and built anew as he seeks to find out the truth about who the mysterious, wonderworking “donkey king” is, and what He means for Rome, Israel, and the entire world.4485 FACEBOOK-1

He witnesses the triumphant entry into Jerusalem, the cleansing of the temple, and thinks Jesus to be a ragtag revolutionary. Then, he sees Him pray and bring miracles to those who need them, and begins to wonder whether there’s more than meets the eye to this man, as he witnesses Jesus becoming caught in the power struggles between Caiaphas, Pilate and Herod Antipas(or the Weasel, the Badger and the Fox – all very fitting nicknames).

Here is where the book becomes brutal, and I’m not just talking about what Jesus goes through. There’s a very powerful and dramatic scene where the blood-crazed Herod abuses his power in a shocking manner. Read the book to find out how, and how Christ plays a role in the aftermath of that scene. As for the Passion itself, it is depicted in all its cruelty, but there’s a great deal of reverence coming across.

Readers will be transported to those times, they will be terrified and inspired at the same time, reliving the most impactful sacrifice of all time. Mr. Kitz’s background as a spoken-word drama performer comes across powerfully in this gripping narrative, which does not feel cheesy or preachy for a second. It’s the story of a man whose faith develops gradually, the fictional but Truth-filled story of the difference one Man and one week made in the history of the world.

I’m blessed to have this book on my shelf, and give it ten out of five stars! Blessings upon blessings, Mr. Kitz! You’ve written one for the ages!

For US purchases and a book description from the publisher click here.

For direct purchase from the author click here.

THE SOLDIER WHO KILLED A KING: the most cinematic account of the Passion of Christ that I have ever read.

26 Saturday Jun 2021

Posted by davidkitz in Books by David Kitz

≈ 3 Comments

Tags

David Kitz, Jesus Christ, Palm Sunday, passion, Roman centurion

A book review by Alex Szollo

Entire libraries can be filled with accounts of the life and times of Jesus Christ, worshipped by billions of people all over the world as the Son of God, the Messiah, the Savior of the world, and all this has, of course, developed over the course of time. I’ve always been fascinated with the world into which Jesus was born, lived, died and was raised to life again. I’ve seen countless movies based on His life, and I’ve read a wealth of fiction books, from all sorts of perspectives.

I think it’s safe to say that after years of reading about Christ, I found the most gripping, dramatic account of His passion that I’ve ever read. It arrived in the form of a novel called THE SOLDIER WHO KILLED A KING, written by David Kitz, whom I wholeheartedly thank for the signed copy of the novel. I also hereby declare that the views you are about to read are entirely my own. This is what this book fully deserves, because, to say it briefly, it’s awesome!

The novel is written from the point of view of Marcus Longinus, a Roman soldier who observes the effect that Jesus has on the people of Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, which is the event that starts the story. Over the course of a week, this man’s entire life is turned upside down and built anew as he seeks to find out the truth about who the mysterious, wonderworking “donkey king” is, and what He means for Rome, Israel, and the entire world.4485 FACEBOOK-1

He witnesses the triumphant entry into Jerusalem, the cleansing of the temple, and thinks Jesus to be a ragtag revolutionary. Then, he sees Him pray and bring miracles to those who need them, and begins to wonder whether there’s more than meets the eye to this man, as he witnesses Jesus becoming caught in the power struggles between Caiaphas, Pilate and Herod Antipas(or the Weasel, the Badger and the Fox – all very fitting nicknames).

Here is where the book becomes brutal, and I’m not just talking about what Jesus goes through. There’s a very powerful and dramatic scene where the blood-crazed Herod abuses his power in a shocking manner. Read the book to find out how, and how Christ plays a role in the aftermath of that scene. As for the Passion itself, it is depicted in all its cruelty, but there’s a great deal of reverence coming across.

Readers will be transported to those times, they will be terrified and inspired at the same time, reliving the most impactful sacrifice of all time. Mr. Kitz’s background as a spoken-word drama performer comes across powerfully in this gripping narrative, which does not feel cheesy or preachy for a second. It’s the story of a man whose faith develops gradually, the fictional but Truth-filled story of the difference one Man and one week made in the history of the world.

I’m blessed to have this book on my shelf, and give it ten out of five stars! Blessings upon blessings, Mr. Kitz! You’ve written one for the ages!

For US purchases and a book description from the publisher click here.

For direct purchase from the author click here.

The Soldier Who Killed a King — Foreword

21 Sunday Mar 2021

Posted by davidkitz in The Soldier Who Killed a King

≈ 3 Comments

Tags

David Kitz, novel, Roman, Roman centurion

What would it be like to live in the geopolitical center of the world during the first century, when donkeys and camels were the cars and trucks; conversations over a goblet of wine were the social media; and religious conflict influenced every facet of life? What would it be like to constantly live under the pagan political domination of Roman tyranny, while also enduring the oppressive ritualistic control of hypocritical religious bigots? What would it be like to live in the very week that this dark confused world was being invaded by heaven—a week when history would shift its time of reckoning from BC to AD?4485 SHARABLE-2

This gripping story, written by David Kitz, offers its readers a front row seat from where we can view the action. It’s a hidden camera on the helmet of a primary witness to this history altering drama, when the Sovereign of the Universe, quietly riding on a lowly donkey, overthrew the pomp and power of the most powerful empire this world has ever known. More than that, it’s a look into the mind and heart of a man, not unlike you or me, who was wrestling with the questions of the meaning and purpose of life.

As you read the thoughtful eyewitness account of The Soldier Who Killed a King, as told by Marcus the Roman centurion, you will feel his anxiety and anguish. And ultimately you too will exult in the answers he discovers, because—despite the time and cultural differences—his story is our story.

Pastor Barry Buzza
President Emeritus, Foursquare Gospel Church of Canada.

For book purchases of The Soldier Who Killed a King try Amazon or christianbook.com.

To download a free study guide for this high-impact, 288-page, bible-based novel visit: https://www.davidkitz.ca/centurion.php/free study guide PDF

Here’s a journey to the cross and the open tomb you will never forget.

A New yet Familiar Story

11 Thursday Mar 2021

Posted by davidkitz in The Soldier Who Killed a King

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

Christ's Passion, Jesus Christ, Roman centurion

It’s a story every Christian has heard many many times, but never quite like this! David Kitz does an impressive job capturing the historical events expressed in the biblical account of Jesus’ death, and re-presenting them from a new, relatable, and incredibly human perspective. Journeying with this Roman Centurion will lead readers to an intimate encounter with the passion of Jesus Christ.  — Dominic
4485 SHARABLE-2

A biblically accurate portrayal of Christ’s Passion.  For book purchases of The Soldier Who Killed a King try Amazon or christianbook.com.

To download a free study guide for this high-impact, bible-based novel visit: https://www.davidkitz.ca/centurion.php/free study guide PDF

Here’s a journey to the cross and the open tomb you will never forget.

“The Centurion’s Report” Drama

10 Friday Apr 2020

Posted by davidkitz in Easter Sunday, Good Friday

≈ 5 Comments

Tags

centurion, Christ's Passion, Easter, Good Friday, Roman centurion

With millions unable to attend Good Friday and Easter services due to the pandemic, here is an opportunity for you to experience the drama of Holy Week in your own home. This one-man drama lets you see Christ’s passion through the eyes of a Roman centurion. View it, like it, and share it with your friends.

 

Barnes & Noble Book Review

23 Thursday Jan 2020

Posted by davidkitz in book review

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

David Kitz, Holy Week, Roman centurion, The Soldier Who Killed a King

Today I came upon this 5 star book review on the Barnes & Noble website. What follows is a duplicate of that post:

I received a copy of THE SOLDIER WHO KILLED A KING: A TRUE RETELLING OF THE PASSION by David Kitz from Kregel Publications in exchange for an honest review. This is a standalone book.

This book…wow. Subject matter aside, it blew me away. The writing is superb. It feels as ifSoldier book you are watching a movie, but a 4D movie. (This would make a great Broadway play.) It puts you in the scene. You taste and feel and smell. You are transported back in time. You get to really know the characters as if they were people living on your block. You travel back in time to the first-century world and experience it all.

Now for the subject matter. According to the blurb: A stunning story of Holy Week through the eyes of a Roman centurion. The centurion is Marcus Longinus.

This story shows the events leading up to the Passion Week. This is a new take on a story that has been told many times. I admit to thinking it might “just be another one.” If you hesitate because of that, you’re missing out. This is historical Christian fiction at its finest. I highly recommend it for your collection.

To purchase though Christianbook.com click here.

West Coast Drama Takes Us Back 2,000 Years

18 Thursday Apr 2019

Posted by davidkitz in Easter Sunday, Good Friday

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

drama, Easter, Good Friday, Roman centurion

This evening is a final rehearsal for “The Centurion’s Report” at South Delta Baptist Church. I am here on the west coast, 2,000 miles from home to bring the story of Christ’s passion to life, as seen through the eyes a Roman centurion.
image

In addition to the Easter morning presentation sited in the news article above, I’ll be doing the same drama at the Kingsway Foursquare Church at 6:00pm on Good Friday.

Have you been to the foot of the cross recently?

Discover the drama; enjoy the book.
4485 FACEBOOK-1

 

 

Reading 14 for Lent from The Soldier Who Killed a King

19 Tuesday Mar 2019

Posted by davidkitz in Lent, The Soldier Who Killed a King

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Caesar, Herod, Jesus of Nazareth, Lent, repentance, Roman centurion

A journey to the cross is a journey to repentance. It’s a journey to deep personal change. Will you take this journey with me?

In today’s reading, Marcus is in conversation with his nephew, the young soldier Claudius. Claudius is reporting on the activities and the message of Jesus of Nazareth on Tuesday of Holy Week.

Claudius went on. “One thing I do know for sure: those fancy-robed religious leaders don’t like him much. Jesus had taught for a while this morning, when all of a sudden the high priest, along with maybe ten other officials, came marching in. They demanded to

DSC_0060

A Roman centurion

know by what authority he was doing these things. He didn’t answer them, but instead he asked them a question. He asked them, ‘By what authority did John baptize?’ They talked it over and then said, ‘We don’t know.’ So he said he wouldn’t answer their question either. They just turned around and left in a holy huff. You could really tell the crowd around Jesus just loved the way he handled these high and mighty holy types.” Claudius abruptly turned to me and asked, “Who was this John anyway?”
“A few years back he caused quite a stir. Thousands of people went out to the Jordan River to hear him. He insisted that people repent, turn from their sins, and then he would baptize them in the river. Even some of my own men went out to hear him. In the end, Herod the tetrarch had him beheaded.”
After reflecting a moment on the day’s events, I caustically commented, “That bloody old Fox hasn’t changed much.”
“Anyway,” Claudius continued, “from then on Jesus would teach for a while, and then some new high-powered delegation would arrive to question him. They weren’t sincere in their questions. It was like they were trying to trap him into saying something they could later use against him. That’s all I think they were after. But in the end Jesus always turned the tables on them. He exposed their real motives. He saw right through them.”
I felt a certain remembered discomfort when Claudius said those words. After all, Jesus’s eyes had shone a light on the darkness of my own soul. I don’t know why I felt so naked, so transparent before this man.
“But, Claudius, what makes you so sure he’s not here to kick out the Romans?”
“It was the way he answered one of those fancy-robed delegations. They asked him if it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar. He called them hypocrites right to their faces. He accused them of trying to trap him. Then he asked for a coin. He demanded to know biblical-fiction-award-2017_origwhose portrait and inscription were on it. When they answered, ‘Caesar’s,’ he jumped on them—like a cat onto a nest of mice. ‘So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s,’ he told them. Even at a distance, I could see their mouths drop and their ears catch fire. They left like cowering dogs with their tails between their legs.”
Claudius became even more animated as he said, “The crowd—the crowd loved it. You could really tell the people loved seeing those phony religious officials get a taste of a little humility. I’m sure they haven’t tasted it for a good long while.”
Then to conclude, he said, “That’s why I don’t think he’s a threat to us. He’s not opposed to paying taxes. Nothing he said all day makes me think he’s got a quarrel with Rome. But he’s sure got the religious leaders worried and bothered. Later in the day he went after them full force. Called them hypocrites, blind guides, a brood of vipers!”
“Ooo! I’m sure they were pleased,” I said sarcastically.
This assessment confirmed what Renaldo and I had been thinking. I had heard the same thing reflected back to me by Flavio. This latest evidence on taxes lent considerable weight to the conclusion Claudius had drawn. But I still felt uneasy. Jesus simply struck me as such a huge, larger-than-life figure—the kind of person you don’t dismiss lightly, no matter what others say. I somehow felt that all we had done thus far was scratch the surface. I’m not sure I really understood him at all. How could I begin to fathom what he was trying to accomplish?

To download a free study guide for this high-impact, bible-based novel visit: https://www.davidkitz.ca/centurion.php/free study guide PDF

For book purchases of The Soldier Who Killed a King try Amazon or https://www.christianbook.com

A Plausible Passion

17 Thursday Jan 2019

Posted by davidkitz in Books by David Kitz, Lent

≈ 5 Comments

Tags

centurion, Christ's Passion, David Kitz, Roman centurion, The Soldier Who Killed a King

Print Media Endorsement

biblical-fiction-award-2017_orig

This Passion of Christ novel, The Soldier Who Killed a King was voted the best book in biblical fiction by Interviews and Reviews.

The Soldier Who Killed a King is David Kitz’s account of Christ’s Passion. It is written from a unique, previously unexplored perspective – the perspective of the centurion, the Roman soldier who gave oversight to Christ’s execution.

Joe Woodard, religion editor for the Calgary Herald calls The Soldier Who Killed a King “a readable and accurate novel about Jesus Christ’s last week on earth. David Kitz’s portrayal of the collision between pagan Rome and Temple Judaism is completely plausible. And as a perfect anecdote to the faux expertise of Dan Brown’s, The Da Vinci Code, Kitz provides over a hundred footnotes and a half-dozen thumbnail biographies at the end of his book.”

Study Guide Opportunities

Here is an opportunity to explore the biblical depth of this topic with a free 7 week study guide. This study is ideal during the Lent and Easter season, but really the message of the cross and the resurrection is appropriate at any time of the year.

Study guide information is listed below. In regards to the study group experience, your feedback and comments are welcome.

For a free PDF of the study guide visit: https://www.davidkitz.ca/centurion.php/free study guide PDF

For book purchases from the author visit: https://www.davidkitz.ca/bookcart/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=50

For book purchases from other sources try Amazon or https://www.christianbook.com

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