Biblical Character Study: Disciples of Lord Jesus Christნიმუში

James, Son of Zebedee – The Greater

Introduction

James, the son of Zebedee and brother of John, was one of the first disciples called by the Lord Jesus Christ. He was likely from Bethsaida, the hometown of Philip, Andrew, and Peter (John 1:44).

James, John, and their father Zebedee were fishermen by profession (Matthew 4:21; Mark 1:19; John 21:2). The family business was prosperous enough to employ hired servants (Mark 1:19-20), indicating financial stability and social standing.

James’s mother, Salome, was among the women who supported Jesus’ ministry financially (Mark 15:40-41; Luke 8:3). She was also present at the crucifixion and burial of Christ (Mark 15:40; 16:1). According to tradition, Salome was the sister of Mary, the mother of Jesus, making James and John first cousins of the Lord.

John’s acquaintance with the high priest (John 18:15) further shows the family’s respected position in society.

Apostolic Privilege and Intimacy

James was one of the inner circle of three — Peter, James, and John — who accompanied the Lord on key occasions of revelation and prayer:

1. Raising of Jairus’s daughter (Luke 8:51-56)
2. The Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:2-8; Luke 9:28-36)
3. The Agony in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46)

These moments reveal the deep trust and intimacy the Lord placed in James. Alongside John, he was given the title “Boanerges,” meaning Sons of Thunder (Mark 3:17), likely referring to their passionate and fiery temperament.

A Man of Courage and Faith

James exhibited courage, faith, and loyalty. Living in the shadow of his brother John, he showed no jealousy or rivalry but served faithfully. His character was marked by zeal balanced by grace — a man transformed by the Lord’s teaching on humility and forgiveness.

He is remembered as a pilgrim and martyr, often symbolized by three shells, representing his missionary journey and the pilgrimage of faith by the sea.

Why “The Greater”?

James is called “the Greater” to distinguish him from James the Less, son of Alphaeus.

This title reflects not superiority, but distinction of calling, closeness, and completion:

1. Earlier calling – He was called before the other James.
2. Closer intimacy – He was part of the Lord’s innermost circle, witnessing moments of divine revelation.
3. Earlier martyrdom – He was the first apostle to die for his faith.

Thus, “James the Greater” was great not by rank, but by faithfulness and sacrifice.

Martyrdom of James

James became a leader in the early Jerusalem Church. Paul notes meeting him during his first visit to Jerusalem three years after his conversion (Galatians 1:18-19).

Around AD 44, King Herod Agrippa I ordered his execution:

“He killed James the brother of John with the sword.” (Acts 12:2)

Herod sought to please the Jews by persecuting the Church. After executing James, he imprisoned Peter — but Peter was miraculously freed by an angel (Acts 12:3-11).

James, however, was not delivered, for it was his appointed time to glorify God through martyrdom. The mystery of why one was spared and the other slain rests in the sovereign will of God.

According to early Church historians, the soldier who led James to execution was so moved by his testimony that he confessed Christ and was executed alongside him.

Challenge

James was a privileged disciple, close to the Lord and part of His innermost fellowship. Yet, his life reminds us that intimacy with Christ does not exempt one from suffering.

God’s plan for James differed from that of Peter and John — he was the first apostle to die, fulfilling his calling with courage and faith.

Each believer has a unique path designed by God. Like James, may we serve faithfully, accept God’s purposes without comparison, and remain steadfast until our mission is complete.