Biblical Studies: The Good News according to James

Deepening Faith

Wednesday 16 June 2027

Jesus exhorts us to believe in the “good news” or the “gospel” (Mk 1.15) – its proclamation and actioning was core to his ministry. Acts likewise tells us of other disciples continuing such proclamation – Peter, Philip or Paul. Paul himself is imprisoned, he claims, because of the “good news”, whilst also noting that he is not ashamed by it.

What might we mean or understand by this term “good news” or “gospel”? If contemporary disciples are to follow in this regard, what makes for such “good news”? What makes the news “good”? What makes it gospel – and what does the phrase “the gospel according to …” entail?

In these sessions, we’ll be looking at such questions, and specifically how the different New Testament writers go about articulating their particular take on the gospel, how they might proceed in unpacking what the “good news” might entail or include. And how do their respective portrayals shape the overall richness and depth of the gospel message?

The focus for this session will be James.

Suggested (but not compulsory) pre-reading: The more you can read of the letter to James the better. However, good preparation would be to read James 1-5. 

Who is it for: Anyone with an interest in the topic.

Course Hosts: Dr David Allen (Hon Research Fellow, Associate Tutor and former Academic Dean of Queen's Theological Foundation) 

Time: 7:30pm - 9:00pm

Venue: Online via Zoom

Cost: Attendance is free for regular worshippers in Church of England Churches in the Diocese of Lichfield. Others are invited to make a donation if possible.

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