Topical Bible: James: An Apostle--Son of Zebedee and Salome: Called to be an Apostle

◄ James: An Apostle--Son of Zebedee and Salome: Called to be an Apostle ►

Topical Encyclopedia

James, the son of Zebedee and Salome, is a prominent figure in the New Testament, known for his close association with Jesus Christ as one of His twelve apostles. James is often referred to as "James the Greater" to distinguish him from James, the son of Alphaeus, and James, the brother of Jesus. His calling and ministry are significant in the early Christian church, and his life and actions are recorded in the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles.

Family Background and Early Life

James was the son of Zebedee, a prosperous fisherman on the Sea of Galilee, and Salome, who is believed to have been a follower of Jesus and possibly a relative of Mary, the mother of Jesus. James had a brother named John, who also became one of Jesus' apostles. The family business was successful enough to employ hired servants, indicating a degree of affluence (Mark 1:20).

Calling to Apostleship

James's calling to be an apostle is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. While he was mending nets with his brother John and father Zebedee, Jesus called them to follow Him. "Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed Him" (Matthew 4:22). This immediate response highlights James's commitment and willingness to leave his former life behind to pursue the mission of Christ.

Role Among the Apostles

James, along with Peter and John, formed the inner circle of Jesus' disciples. This trio was present at several key events in Jesus' ministry, including the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-2), the raising of Jairus's daughter (Mark 5:37), and Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14:33). These experiences suggest a special trust and intimacy between Jesus and these three apostles.

Character and Zeal

James and John were nicknamed "Boanerges," meaning "Sons of Thunder," by Jesus (Mark 3:17). This moniker likely reflects their zealous and sometimes impetuous nature. An example of this zeal is seen when they asked Jesus for permission to call down fire from heaven on a Samaritan village that did not welcome them (Luke 9:54). Jesus rebuked them, teaching a lesson in mercy and patience.

Martyrdom

James holds the distinction of being the first apostle to be martyred. His death is recorded in the Acts of the Apostles: "About that time, King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword" (Acts 12:1-2). This event marked a significant moment in the early church, as it faced persecution and the loss of one of its foundational leaders.

Legacy

James's legacy is one of fervent faith and dedication to the mission of Jesus Christ. His willingness to leave everything behind, his close relationship with Jesus, and his ultimate sacrifice for the faith serve as enduring examples of apostolic zeal and commitment. His life and martyrdom continue to inspire Christians to live boldly for their faith, even in the face of persecution.

Nave's Topical Index

Matthew 4:21,22
And going on from there, he saw other two brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them.
Nave's Topical Index

Matthew 10:2
Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;
Nave's Topical Index

Mark 1:19,20
And when he had gone a little farther there, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the ship mending their nets.
Nave's Topical Index

Luke 6:14
Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew,
Nave's Topical Index

Acts 1:13
And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where stayed both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James.
Nave's Topical Index