The 12 DISCIPLES | JAMES (SON OF ZEBEDEE)

0. Introduction

a) Jesus' faithful disciples were ordinary men who became extraordinary because of Jesus Christ. Despite their confusion and lack of understanding during his lifetime, they became powerful witnesses to his resurrection. Their lives were transformed by God's power. The story of Jesus' disciples does not end with the Gospels. It continues in the book of Acts and many of the letters.

1. Name 

a) James (son of Zebedee), he and his brother John were called the "Sons of Thunder."

2. Occupation

a) Fisherman.

3. Outstanding characteristics

a) Ambitious, short-tempered, judgmental, deeply committed to Jesus.

4. Major events in his life

a) Also in core group; he and his brother John asked Jesus for places of honor in his kingdom; wanted to call fire down to destroy s Samaritan village; first disciple to be martyred.

5. What Jesus said about him

a) Called James and John "Sons of Thunder"; said he would be a fisher of men; would drink the cup Jesus drank.

6. A key lesson from his life

a) Christians must be willing to die for Jesus.

7. Selected text references

a) Mark 3:17

b) Mark 10:35-40

c) Luke 9:52-56

d) Acts 12:1-2