The old testament is a very valid historical document, I agree. It's the new testament that must be taken with a pinch of salt because it was written evangelically, with an intention to 'sell', for want of a better word, the religion to the people. It is strange though, that they edited Pontius Pilate's character and not the scourging, or the crucifixion.

This is coming from a once-Catholic religious cynic, by the way. No offence meant, if any was taken. It's just where I stand personally on the matter.