Quick Facts
Son of Thunder" James: First apostle martyred, loyal to the end.
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Life Journey
James Zebedee is born to Zebedee and his wife, likely in Bethsaida, a fishing village on the Sea of Galilee.
James begins learning Jewish religious and cultural practices, including the Torah and other sacred texts, under the guidance of local rabbis.
James starts working as a fisherman alongside his father Zebedee and his brother John, learning the trade and gaining experience on the Sea of Galilee.
James marries and starts a family, continuing his work as a fisherman while fulfilling his responsibilities as a husband and father.
James encounters Jesus of Nazareth, who is gaining a following in the region. He is deeply impressed by Jesus' teachings and miracles.
Jesus calls James and his brother John to be his disciples. They leave their fishing business to follow Jesus and become part of his inner circle.
James, along with Peter and John, is invited by Jesus to witness the Transfiguration on a high mountain, where Jesus is transfigured and speaks with Moses and Elijah.
James, now a full-fledged apostle, travels with Jesus and the other disciples, healing the sick, casting out demons, and preaching the message of the Kingdom of God.
James is present at the Last Supper, where Jesus shares a final meal with his disciples and institutes the Eucharist, emphasizing the importance of love and service.
James is one of the disciples who witnesses the crucifixion of Jesus on Golgotha, a deeply traumatic and transformative event that solidifies his faith.
James and the other disciples experience the resurrected Jesus, who appears to them multiple times, confirming their faith and commissioning them to spread the Gospel.
Following the Ascension of Jesus, James becomes a prominent leader in the early Christian community, preaching and performing miracles in Jerusalem and the surrounding areas.
James participates in the Council of Jerusalem, a significant meeting of early Christian leaders to address the issue of Gentile converts and the requirements of the Mosaic Law.
James is recognized as a key leader in the Jerusalem Church, working alongside Peter and John to guide and support the growing Christian community.
James is arrested by King Herod Agrippa I and beheaded in Jerusalem, becoming one of the first apostles to be martyred for his faith.