Series: James Atkinson (1914-2011)

Rev. Canon Prof. James Atkinson was an English Anglican priest and distinguished biblical scholar, best known for his work on Martin Luther and Reformation theology. Born on 27 April 1914 in Tynemouth, he earned his theological training at St John’s College, Durham, and completed a doctorate in theology at the University of Münster in 1955 with a thesis on Luther and the Gospel of John.

Ordained in 1937–38, he served in parish ministry before entering academia. He taught at the University of Hull (reader in theology, 1956–1967) and then became Professor of Biblical Studies at the University of Sheffield (1967–1979), where he later directed the Centre for Reformation Studies (1983–2006). He also held the office of Canon Theologian at Leicester Cathedral (1954–1970) and then Sheffield Cathedral (1970–1993).

Atkinson authored notable works including Luther’s Early Theological Works (1962), Martin Luther and the Birth of Protestantism (1968), and The Darkness of Faith (1987), influencing both Protestant and Catholic readers.

He participated in Anglican–Roman Catholic theological dialogues, served on the Church of England’s General Synod, and presided over the Society for the Study of Theology. Known for his warm teaching style and deep spiritual insight, he continued lecturing and writing into his 90s. He passed away on 30 July 2011.

• How is the Word received by man?
  James Atkinson ~ Huntercombe Manor, Buckinghamshire, 30 Aug. 1967 ~ ARCJPC 6