James son of Zebedee
The First Apostle to Be Martyred
Name Information
- Meaning: 'Supplanter' (Hebrew: Ya'akov)'
- Language of Origin: Hebrew
- Gender Usage: Masculine
James, the son of Zebedee and brother of John, was among Jesus’ closest disciples. A fisherman by trade, he left everything to follow Christ. Along with Peter and John, he witnessed key moments of Jesus’ ministry. Known for his passionate zeal, James was the first apostle to be martyred for his faith.
⏰ 1st century AD
Roles
- Apostle
- Disciple
Relationships
- Brother: John
- Father: Zebedee
Story
Left his boat and father to follow Jesus.
Asked Jesus for a place of honor in His kingdom (with John).
Witnessed Jesus’ glory on the Mount of Transfiguration.
Bold and passionate, yet needed spiritual maturity.
Executed by the sword under King Herod.
Spiritual Significance
- One of Jesus’ inner circle (with Peter and John).
- Present at the Transfiguration and raising of Jairus’s daughter.
- Nicknamed 'Son of Thunder' for his boldness.
- First apostolic martyr, killed by Herod Agrippa I.
What We Can Learn
- Following Jesus may cost everything — even life.
- True greatness in God’s kingdom comes through servanthood.
- Zeal must be guided by humility and grace.
Memory Verses
Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.
— Matthew 4:19
Key Passages
- Matthew 4:21–22
- Mark 3:17
- Mark 5:37
- Matthew 17:1–9
- Acts 12:1–2
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