Character Study Of James (Son Of Zebedee) Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF JAMES (SON OF ZEBEDEE) – ONE OF THE FIRST DISCIPLES, EXECUTED BY HEROD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 4:21

"And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them."

Supporting Texts: Matthew 10:2, Matthew 17:1-2, Mark 3:17, Mark 10:35-40, Luke 9:54, Acts 12:1-2

INTRODUCTION:

James, the son of Zebedee, was one of Jesus’ twelve apostles and the elder brother of John. He was among the first disciples called by Jesus and was part of the inner circle along with Peter and John. Known for his zeal and fiery personality, he was nicknamed "Son of Thunder" by Jesus. James was the first of the apostles to be martyred, executed by King Herod. His life exemplifies dedication, courage, and transformation through Christ.

1. JAMES WAS ONE OF THE FIRST DISCIPLES CALLED BY JESUS

a) He was a fisherman before following Jesus (Matthew 4:21-22)

James and his brother John left their fishing business to follow Jesus immediately.

b) He was called while mending his nets with his father (Mark 1:19-20)

His family had a successful fishing enterprise, yet he forsook it for Christ.

c) He responded to Jesus’ call without hesitation (Luke 5:10-11)

His willingness to leave everything showed his deep commitment.

d) He followed Jesus along with his brother John (Matthew 4:21)

The two brothers were always together in the ministry.

e) Biblical Example: Peter and Andrew also left their fishing business to follow Jesus (Matthew 4:18-20).

2. JAMES WAS PART OF JESUS' INNER CIRCLE

a) He was one of the three closest disciples (Mark 5:37)

Along with Peter and John, he witnessed key moments in Jesus’ ministry.

b) He saw the transfiguration of Jesus (Matthew 17:1-2)

He beheld Christ’s divine glory on the mountain.

c) He was present when Jesus raised Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5:37-42)

He witnessed Jesus’ power over death.

d) He accompanied Jesus to Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-37)

He was chosen to be with Jesus in His most sorrowful hour.

e) Biblical Example: Moses, Joshua, and Caleb were also in a special leadership circle (Exodus 24:13-14).

3. JAMES WAS ZEALOUS BUT NEEDED SPIRITUAL MATURITY

a) He and John wanted to call fire from heaven on a Samaritan village (Luke 9:54)

Their zeal needed to be balanced with love and patience.

b) Jesus rebuked him, teaching him mercy (Luke 9:55-56)

He learned that God’s kingdom is built on grace, not violence.

c) He sought high positions in Jesus’ kingdom (Mark 10:35-37)

He and his brother John asked to sit at Jesus’ right and left hand in glory.

d) Jesus corrected their ambition and taught servant leadership (Mark 10:42-45)

They learned that greatness in God’s kingdom comes through service.

e) Biblical Example: Paul was also zealous before his transformation (Acts 9:1-6).

4. JAMES EXPERIENCED SPIRITUAL GROWTH THROUGH JESUS

a) He moved from selfish ambition to sacrificial service (Mark 10:39)

He was willing to drink the cup of suffering for Christ.

b) He was faithful until death (Acts 12:2)

He became the first apostle to be martyred.

c) His zeal was transformed into boldness for Christ (Acts 1:8)

He preached fearlessly after receiving the Holy Spirit.

d) His life demonstrated total devotion to Christ (Matthew 19:29)

He left everything and never looked back.

e) Biblical Example: Peter also grew from impulsiveness to spiritual maturity (John 21:15-19).

5. JAMES WAS THE FIRST APOSTLE TO BE MARTYRED

a) He was executed by King Herod (Acts 12:1-2)

He became the first of the twelve apostles to be killed for his faith.

b) His death showed his unwavering commitment to Christ (Philippians 1:21)

He was willing to die for the gospel.

c) His martyrdom strengthened the faith of the early church (Acts 12:5)

His sacrifice encouraged believers to remain steadfast.

d) His life fulfilled Jesus’ prophecy (Mark 10:39)

Jesus had told him he would suffer for the kingdom.

e) Biblical Example: Stephen was also martyred for his faith (Acts 7:55-60).

STRENGTHS OF JAMES

a) He was a committed disciple (Matthew 4:21-22)

He left everything to follow Jesus immediately.

b) He was part of Jesus’ inner circle (Matthew 17:1-2)

He witnessed key moments in Jesus’ ministry.

c) He had great zeal for the kingdom (Luke 9:54)

Though sometimes misguided, his passion for Christ was evident.

d) He was courageous and bold (Acts 12:1-2)

He stood firm in his faith even unto death.

e) He grew in spiritual maturity (Mark 10:39)

He moved from seeking power to embracing sacrifice.

WEAKNESSES OF JAMES

a) He was impulsive and quick-tempered (Luke 9:54)

He wanted to destroy those who rejected Jesus.

b) He sought positions of power (Mark 10:35-37)

He and John desired status rather than servanthood.

c) He misunderstood Jesus’ mission at first (Luke 9:55-56)