Biblical Character Study: Disciples of Lord Jesus Christනියැදිය

James – The Lesser

Introduction

James the Lesser, also known as James the Younger, was the son of Alpheus (or Cleophas) and Mary. He lived in Galilee and was the brother of the Apostle Jude. James is sometimes referred to as James the Just. The title “the Less” was used to distinguish him from James, the brother of John, who was older. Though little is recorded about him in the New Testament, his faithful witness and leadership made a lasting mark in the early Church. Some scholars also believe he was the brother of Matthew, the tax collector.

Privilege

James had the rare and wonderful privilege of being called by the Lord from darkness into light to be one of His Apostles. Out of the multitude, God chose only twelve men to proclaim the gospel of His kingdom — and James the Less was among them.

Listed Among the Twelve

Being listed among the twelve apostles was itself a great honor. Although Scripture offers few details about his life, there is a profound truth to be celebrated — his name is eternally inscribed in the foundation of the New Jerusalem:

“And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.”
(Revelation 21:14)

A Pillar of the Church

The Apostle Paul referred to James the Less as one of the “pillars” of the early Church. James discerned the grace and calling given to Paul to reach the Gentiles and extended to him the hand of fellowship.

“When James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given to me, they gave the right hand of fellowship to Barnabas and me, that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised.”
(Galatians 2:9)

Leadership in the Early Church

James the Less became an influential leader after Pentecost. When a dispute arose regarding whether Gentile believers should be circumcised, Paul and Barnabas went to Jerusalem to consult the apostles and elders.

At the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15), held around A.D. 50, James presided as chairman. He listened to Paul, Peter, and Barnabas before delivering the final judgment — that Gentile believers need not be circumcised like Jewish believers. His wise leadership brought unity to the early Church.

The Letter of James

The Epistle of James is widely accepted as his work. Both internal and external evidence affirm his authorship. The letter reflects deep familiarity with Jewish customs and Scripture. Its language, structure, and ethical emphasis are consistent with James’s pastoral concern for holiness and practical faith.

The Church Fathers and early councils affirmed the letter’s authenticity and canonicity. Scholars generally date it to between A.D. 49-60. Though addressed “to the twelve tribes in the Dispersion,” the letter continues to speak powerfully to Christians of every generation.

Ministry of James

According to early traditions, James served as the first bishop of Jerusalem. Some accounts also claim that he preached in Egypt, continuing the Lord’s commission to make disciples of all nations.

Death and Martyrdom

Early Church historians Eusebius and Hegesippus record that James was martyred in A.D. 62. He was reportedly thrown from a parapet of the Temple and then clubbed to death after refusing to deny his faith in Christ. Another legend suggests he was sawn in pieces. Despite varying accounts, all agree on his unwavering courage and faithfulness unto death.

Challenge

James loved the Lord deeply, pursued holiness passionately, and spoke truth boldly. His steadfast faith, leadership, and willingness to suffer for Christ remain a timeless challenge for all believers.