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Gospels · New Testament

James

Apostle and Son of Zebedee

Name meaning
Supplanter or one who follows
Name origin
Greek: Ἰάκωβος (Iakobos), from Hebrew Yaakov, “supplanter”

Quick facts

Occupation
  • Fisherman
  • Apostle
Birthplace
Galilee
Modern-day location
Galilee, in present-day northern Israel; the town is not specified.
Family
  • Son of Zebedee and Salome (traditionally)
  • Brother of John
  • One of the Twelve
First mention
Matthew 4:21-22
Last mention
Acts 12:2
Key artifacts
  • Fishing boat
  • Net
  • Apostolic staff

Key verses

  • “For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister.”

    Mark 10:45

  • “And he taketh with him Peter and James and John.”

    Mark 14:33

  • “And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.”

    Acts 12:2

Biography

Early Life

James was a fisherman working with his father Zebedee and brother John when Jesus called him.

Defining Biblical Moments

James was among Jesus’ inner circle at the transfiguration and in Gethsemane. Herod Agrippa I killed him by the sword, making him the first apostle named as a martyr in Acts.

Strengths

James showed commitment and willingness to leave his livelihood to follow Jesus.

Weaknesses & Lessons

His request for status with John reveals ambition that Jesus redirected toward service and sacrifice.

Life Lessons for Today

His request for status with John reveals ambition that Jesus redirected toward service and sacrifice.

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James appears in The Life of Jesus & The Early Church, alongside more profiles like this one.

Page #21 in The Life of Jesus & The Early Church

The Life of Jesus & The Early Church front cover

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