John Painter Book order

An account of the history of Reading's Abbey and the changes to its ruins and the surrounding area after the Dissolution in 1539.

The book delves into the overlooked significance of James the Just, the first bishop of the early Christian church. It explores how Christian leaders have downplayed his contributions and examines his influence on various traditions that shaped the beliefs and practices of Jewish Christians, Gnostics, and the broader Christian community. Through this analysis, it sheds light on the complex dynamics of early Christianity and the pivotal role James played in its development.

Exploring the complexities of the Johannine Epistles, this work delves into the unclear meanings within 1, 2, and 3 John, highlighting their unique characteristics despite being labeled as Epistles. John Painter examines the interconnections among these texts and their relation to the Gospel, providing insights that enhance understanding of their theological significance and literary context.

The book explores the intricate conflict of good and evil as depicted in Mark's Gospel, highlighting tensions between Jesus and both Jewish and Roman authorities, as well as internal struggles among the disciples. This analysis not only delves into the thematic content of Mark's theodicy but also examines stylistic elements that suggest insights into the intended audience of the text. The author's approach offers a fresh perspective on the rhetorical and dramatic shaping of these conflicts throughout the narrative.