Marjorie Holmes’ novel The Messiah is a fictionalized retelling of the life of Jesus Christ, written in her warm and accessible narrative style. It is the second book in her trilogy, following Two From Galilee, which told the love story of Mary and Joseph.
In The Messiah, Holmes focuses on the public ministry of Jesus — his teachings, miracles, and growing following — as well as the increasing resistance he faces from religious leaders and Roman authorities. The book captures his compassion for the poor, his revolutionary ideas about love and forgiveness, and his role as a spiritual teacher who challenged traditions and power structures.
The story is told with novelistic detail, portraying not only Jesus’ words and deeds but also the inner thoughts and emotions of those around him — his disciples, followers, and even skeptics. Holmes brings biblical characters to life in a very human way, showing their doubts, fears, and hopes.
The novel progresses through the key events of the Gospels:
- Jesus’ baptism and calling of the disciples
- His teachings in parables and sermons
- Healing the sick and performing miracles
- Confrontations with the Pharisees and Sadducees
- His entry into Jerusalem
- The Last Supper, betrayal, and crucifixion
Ultimately, Holmes portrays Jesus not only as the divine Messiah but also as a deeply human figure — loving, kind, misunderstood, and sacrificial. The novel ends with his death and the profound hope of his resurrection, pointing toward the continuation of his story in the final volume of the trilogy, Three From Galilee.