The Centurion

Dr. Stenbakken captures the imagination and reality in the story of the Centurion by the gripping story line as well as by the historically and biblically accurate details. The story holds the reader's attention all through the book, making it sometimes difficult to stop and answer the questions at the end of each chapter. However, these questions stir deep personal responses and reflections that are life changing. It is an easy read book that bears re-reading and sharing. I highly recommend it.

I really enjoyed reading this book.

Wonderful story

The Centurion starts with the 18-year-old Longinus, a Roman soldier, who longs for recognition in his first hand-to-hand combat. After earning higher ranks through dedication, he loses his beloved son, and goes on to become the centurion in charge of Jesus’ brutal crucifixion and his tomb.The well-written chapters focus on Longinus’ deepest thoughts and dialogs with people as a solider and friend, and show the author’s understanding of people. Dr. Dick Stenbakken is a retied U.S. Army Colonel and Chaplain who has an education doctorate.Historical facts woven into the story, the different Roman words explained, and the illustrations of items important in the first-century C.E. show extensive research. The objects could be even more effective if photographed. Dr. Stenbakken brings out how the beliefs, especially the spiritual ones, of the Romans impacted their daily lives from romance to death.I kept reading to see what Longinus thought of Jesus, and the surprise ending answers that question with confidence. Each chapter’s discussion questions are Christian and reflexive.I recommend it for those who enjoy historical or Biblical fiction, or want more information about the interaction of Pilate, Jesus, and those who lived in Jerusalem.Disclosure of Material Connection: I work with the author of this book, but I only recommend books that I have personally read and believe are interesting to others. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

We have tales about the crucifixion of Jesus seen through Christian eyes. We have tales of the crucifixion of Jesus seen through Jewish eyes. Have you ever read a tale relating to the crucifixion of Jesus seen through Roman eyes? Probably not, as I am not aware of any historical documents from a Roman perspective. The book captures what the crucifixion may have looked like through the eyes of a Roman Centurion, especially one familiar with this cruel and brutal manner of execution. This is a fascinating tale from beginning to end and not just for the religiously inclined. The many drawings of equipment and tools used during the first century provides something for history buffs. For the religious person, the questions at the end of each chapter provide excellent starters for group discussions or personal reflection.Marion Pember, author, "God in a Box: Thoughts from a Recovering Fundamentalist"