The Scandalous Message of James: Faith Without Works Is Dead

This book was on my bibliography for a Masters thesis. Elsa Tamez offers a compelling theological exegesis of the book of James. She connects James with the OT prophet Amos--which she articulates in a clear Latin American perspective. Much of popular writings on NT does not consider use the prophetic status of James as an interpretative lens and Tamez beautifully illustrates the literary richness of James within the NT. From her Latin American liberation theology perspective, I found her critiques on capitalism-based economies unique and much needed from the plethora of Euro-American critiques. She offers her critiques from the location of the Methodist Church and offers United States Christians deep theological reflection on underlying assumptions of our culture.The great clarity Tamez uses speaks to both the trained clergy/theologian and the layperson theologian. In the back of the book, she inserted discussion guides that are useful for small group meetings. I recommend this book to anyone who is studying the book of James and/or desires deep Christian reflection on our economic system.

I was disappointed that the book appeared to be written for only a select group of people. I used this book for a bible study and it was not received extremely well. In my opinion, it is meant to be studied by persons who have a particular interest in working with or identifying with the marginalized populations or women in particular. I also noticed in the study guide section that the book in the past was formulated to be used by the United Methodist Church Women's Ministry. This didn't go too well with my group. Some persons in my group, although marginalized didn't seem too open to liberation theology and actually appeared hostile to some degree. It wasn't a pleasant experience for me, however, she made some really good points with regards to the foundation of the Letter of James that I used from a different perspective!

Tamez captures the holistic gospel that James is defending while other resources claim he has no reference to the gospel. This is an essential resource for a book that is written by and about those in the margins.

Very good book! Great for any Bible study with lay Christians, exegetical work for Christian scholarship, personal devotional, and more. Plus, it has resources to start taking steps to put our faith into practice.

This treatment of James presenta a very appealing approach to the teachings of James. Easy to read, but still presents a comprehensive view

Great, thanks!

very good condition

The Scandalous Message of James is a great commentary by a liberation biblical scholar in Costa Rica. It is very insightful and is aware of the prevailing scholarship.

Great book