James (brother of Jesus)

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Greek Iakōbos (from Hebrew Yaʿaqōb, “Jacob/James”), a common Jewish name in the Second Temple Period
• Period/Era: Second Temple Period; Early Church; Apostolic Age; Roman Imperial Context
• Main References: Matthew 13:55; Mark 6:3; John 7:5; Acts 12:17; Acts 15:13–21; Acts 21:18–26; 1 Corinthians 15:7; Galatians 1:19; Galatians 2:9, 12; James 1:1
• Key Connections: Jesus and his family; Peter and Paul; the Jerusalem church

Who was James (brother of Jesus)?

James was identified as one of Jesus’ brothers in the Gospels (Matt. 13:55; Mark 6:3).
During Jesus’ earthly ministry, his brothers are portrayed as not believing in him (John 7:5).
After the resurrection, James is listed among those to whom the risen Jesus appeared (1 Cor. 15:7).
In the Early Church he became a recognized leader in Jerusalem and a key figure in apostolic deliberations (Acts 15:13; Gal. 2:9).

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: Received a post-resurrection appearance of Jesus, strengthening his standing among early believers (1 Cor. 15:7).
• Event 2: Spoke decisively at the Jerusalem council on Gentile inclusion and communal practice (Acts 15:13–21).
• Event 3: Hosted Paul in Jerusalem and participated in efforts to maintain unity amid tensions over Torah observance (Acts 21:18–26).

Life Lesson & Legacy

James’ life illustrates how leadership in the Apostolic Age was shaped by commitment to the risen Jesus and careful guidance of diverse communities.

Key Verse

"Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord's brother." — Galatians 1:18–19, ESV