Robert Kleinke

Why Did Jesus Die? Robert Kleinke

What really motivated the main characters in the events surrounding Jesus' death? Was Judas merely a pragmatic man dealing with the unpleasant realities of everyday life in an occupied land? Was Herod an honorable leader of the Hebrew people who was concerned with saving lives? Was Pontius Pilate a talented and efficient representative of Rome who was simply trying to keep the peace? Or did they all intentionally participate in the wrongful execution of an innocent man?

Written in an easy-to-present format, this fascinating drama series will have your congregation pondering how they would answer these and many other questions. Six biblical characters come to life in new and revealing ways as they take the witness stand in a contemporary grand jury inquiry into the meaning of Jesus' death. While attempting to explain their thoughts and actions, Judas, Caiaphas, Herod, Pilate, Mary Magdalene, and Peter face intense questioning by a state's attorney. The innovative grand jury approach makes audiences active participants in the drama, as they are challenged to determine the true significance of the crucifixion.

Why Did Jesus Die? is an enlightening six-part resource that's perfect for weekly Lenten worship, but it can also be easily used as a single dramatic production. Several thought-provoking questions relating to each witness's testimony are provided to spark follow-up discussion, and a closing argument by the state's attorney summarizes the evidence pointing to Jesus' innocence ? and our sinful guilt.

The Church says Jesus died for us, for the sins of the world. Is this the real truth? Using the structure of a hypothetical modern-day grand jury investigation, Robert Kleinke confronts this most important question in a refreshing and entertaining manner.
Steve Mangan
CEO, The Ordean Foundation
Duluth, Minnesota

Robert Kleinke is the chaplain at Woodland Hills, a youth treatment center in Duluth, Minnesota. He has pastored Lutheran congregations in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, and currently serves as an interim minister for the ELCA's Northeastern Minnesota Synod. Kleinke is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin and Luther Northwestern Seminary.