Topical Bible: James: An Apostle--Son of Zebedee and Salome

◄ James: An Apostle--Son of Zebedee and Salome ►

Topical Encyclopedia

James, often referred to as James the Greater to distinguish him from James the Less, was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He was the son of Zebedee, a prosperous fisherman, and Salome, who is believed to have been a follower of Jesus. James was the elder brother of John, another of Jesus' apostles, and together they were known as the "sons of Zebedee" or the "sons of thunder" (Mark 3:17).

Calling and Ministry

James was called to follow Jesus while he was mending nets by the Sea of Galilee with his brother John and their father Zebedee. Jesus called them, and they immediately left their boat and their father to follow Him (Matthew 4:21-22). James, along with Peter and John, formed the inner circle of Jesus' disciples, witnessing significant events such as the Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-3) and the raising of Jairus' daughter (Mark 5:37).

Character and Role

James is often depicted as zealous and passionate. His nickname, "Boanerges," meaning "sons of thunder," given by Jesus, suggests a fiery disposition (Mark 3:17). This is further illustrated in the account where James and John asked Jesus if they should call down fire from heaven to destroy a Samaritan village that did not receive them (Luke 9:54). Jesus rebuked them, teaching a lesson in mercy and patience.

James' mother, Salome, once approached Jesus with a request for her sons to sit at His right and left in His kingdom, indicating the family's ambition and misunderstanding of Jesus' mission (Matthew 20:20-21). Jesus used this moment to teach about servanthood and sacrifice, emphasizing that greatness in His kingdom comes through serving others (Matthew 20:26-28).

Martyrdom

James holds the distinction of being the first apostle to be martyred. His death is recorded in the Book of Acts, where King Herod Agrippa I, seeking to please the Jewish leaders, ordered James to be put to death by the sword (Acts 12:1-2). This event marked a significant moment in the early church, as it demonstrated the growing opposition and persecution faced by the followers of Christ.

Legacy

James' legacy is one of fervent faith and unwavering commitment to Jesus Christ. His willingness to leave everything behind to follow Jesus and his ultimate sacrifice as a martyr serve as powerful examples of discipleship. James' life and ministry continue to inspire believers to pursue a deeper relationship with Christ and to stand firm in their faith amidst trials and persecution.

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Matthew 4:21
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.
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Matthew 27:56
Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedees children.
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Mark 15:40
There were also women looking on afar off: among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome;
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Mark 16:1
And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.
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