Main Thesis
Lenny proposes a non-mainstream theological view that the Letter of James may have been written during Jesus’ earthly ministry, prior to the Cross, Resurrection, and Pentecost. The episode argues that understanding this timeline is crucial to interpreting the letter's strong focus on works and the Law.
Key Arguments
- Historical Context: The letter is addressed solely to the "twelve tribes in the dispersion" and makes no mention of Gentiles, the Cross, the Resurrection, or the finished work of salvation. This aligns with the period when Jesus’ disciples preached the Kingdom to Israel but did not yet understand the mystery of the Gospel of Grace.
- Law-Based Repentance: Lenny argues that James parallels the "Sermon on the Mount," preaching a law-based righteousness intended to convict Israel, rather than the message of reconciliation found in Paul’s post-Cross epistles.
- Reinterpreting Famous Passages:
- "Faith without works is dead": This is presented as a rebuke to the hypocrisy of the Pharisees (who recited the Shema but didn't obey God), rather than a contradiction of the New Covenant doctrine of justification by faith alone.
- Healing and Forgiveness: The instructions to pray for the sick and that sins "will be forgiven" (future tense) reflect the signs and wonders of Jesus' earthly ministry, rather than the "once for all" cleansing provided by the Cross.
Conclusion
The host concludes that while the Letter of James is divinely inspired Scripture, it captures a transitional moment in history. Therefore, modern Christians should consider reading it as a historical account of pre-Cross Jewish faith, rather than applying its legalistic standards to the New Covenant life of grace.
Episode Page: https://wakinguptograce.com/james-the-gospel-before-the-cross/
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