James Denney (8 February 1856 – 12 June 1917) James Denney (8 February 1856 – 12 June 1917) was a Scottish theologian and preacher. He is probably best known today for his theological articulation of the meaning of the atonement within Christian theology, atonement for him being “the most profound of all truths” (The Death of Christ, 243). Many have misunderstood his position, arguing that he was known for his defense of the doctrine of penal |penal substitution. However, Denny himself protested vigorously against this characterization (see Theological Position below).