Character Study Of James – The Brother Of Jesus Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF JAMES – THE BROTHER OF JESUS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: James 1:1

"James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting."

Supporting Texts: Matthew 13:55, Mark 6:3, Acts 15:13-21, 1 Corinthians 15:7, Galatians 1:19

INTRODUCTION:

James, the half-brother of Jesus, was a key figure in the early church and the author of the Epistle of James. Initially, he did not believe in Jesus as the Messiah, but after the resurrection, he became a strong leader among the believers in Jerusalem. He was known for his wisdom, humility, and devotion to righteousness.

James played a crucial role in the Jerusalem Council, where he helped resolve disputes concerning Gentile converts. His epistle emphasises practical Christianity, encouraging believers to demonstrate their faith through works, patience, and godly wisdom.

1. JAMES WAS A SKEPTIC WHO LATER BELIEVED

a) He grew up with Jesus but did not believe in Him at first (John 7:5)

Despite being Jesus' half-brother, James initially doubted His divine identity.

b) He was likely among those who thought Jesus was out of His mind (Mark 3:21)

James and his family once tried to stop Jesus from preaching, thinking He had lost His senses.

c) His transformation happened after the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:7)

Jesus appeared to James specifically after rising from the dead, which changed his perspective.

d) He became a devoted disciple after his conversion (Acts 1:14)

After believing, he joined the early disciples in prayer and fellowship.

e) Biblical Example: Paul also experienced a radical transformation from being a persecutor to a preacher (Acts 9:1-20).

2. JAMES WAS A PILLAR IN THE EARLY CHURCH

a) He became a leader in the Jerusalem church (Galatians 2:9)

Alongside Peter and John, James was considered a pillar of the church.

b) He presided over the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15:13-21)

He helped settle the dispute regarding Gentile believers and Jewish customs.

c) He advocated for practical faith (James 2:14-17)

His epistle teaches that true faith is demonstrated by good works.

d) He promoted peace and unity among believers (James 3:17-18)

He encouraged wisdom that leads to peace rather than conflict.

e) Biblical Example: Moses also led the people with wisdom and settled disputes (Exodus 18:13-26).

3. JAMES WAS A MAN OF PRAYER AND RIGHTEOUSNESS

a) He was known as "James the Just" because of his holiness

Early church historians recorded that he prayed so much his knees became calloused.

b) He encouraged endurance in trials (James 1:2-4)

He taught that suffering produces patience and spiritual maturity.

c) He emphasised the power of prayer (James 5:16-18)

He urged believers to pray fervently for healing and breakthrough.

d) He practiced what he preached (James 1:22-25)

His life reflected the wisdom and godliness he wrote about.

e) Biblical Example: Daniel was also known for his consistent prayer life (Daniel 6:10).

4. JAMES SPOKE WITH AUTHORITY AND WISDOM

a) He wrote with directness and clarity (James 3:1-12)

His teaching on controlling the tongue is one of the most practical lessons in Scripture.

b) He challenged hypocrisy (James 1:26-27)

He emphasised that true religion includes caring for the needy and remaining unspotted from the world.

c) He called for repentance and humility (James 4:6-10)

He warned against pride and encouraged submission to God.

d) He warned against worldliness (James 4:4)

He declared that friendship with the world is enmity with God.

e) Biblical Example: Solomon also spoke with wisdom and gave practical counsel (Proverbs 1:1-7).

5.  STRENGTHS OF JAMES

a) Strong leadership – He guided the early church with wisdom and fairness.

b) Deep commitment to prayer – He was devoted to seeking God in prayer.

c) Boldness in teaching – He spoke the truth without fear or compromise.

d) Practical approach to faith – He emphasised righteous living and good works.

e) Humility and service – He identified himself as a servant of Christ rather than boasting of being His brother.

6.  WEAKNESSES OF JAMES

a) Initial unbelief – He struggled to believe in Jesus before the resurrection.

b) Possible legalistic tendencies – His emphasis on works could have been misunderstood as legalism, though he balanced it with faith.

7. LESSONS TO LEARN FROM THE LIFE OF JAMES

a) It is possible to overcome doubt and unbelief

James' transformation shows that even skeptics can become strong believers when they encounter the risen Christ.

b) True faith must be demonstrated through actions

James taught that faith without works is dead, reminding us that Christianity is practical.

c) Humility is the mark of a true servant of God

Despite his position, James referred to himself simply as a "servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ."

d) Prayer is essential for spiritual strength

His dedication to prayer teaches us that a strong spiritual life is built on constant communion with God.