Interactive Bible studies
Introduction to James the brother of Jesus
10 steps to lead a successful small group Bible study. Timeline. Map. Go to today’s Bible reading: James 1:1
James Introduction
It's hard to be second, isn't it? It is hard enough to be second in a race or some other contest, but imagine how hard it is to be second in a family. Mom and Dad are always expecting great things from their firstborn but often pass over attention and the achievements of their other children.
We are beginning a new study in the book of James. Who is James? Read Mark 6:1-3 . It is the Lord's brother. Notice Jesus had 4 brothers, James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon, and some sisters after he was born. Imagine being the second born child to Jesus Christ (or any of Jesus' brothers or sisters for that matter). Mom and Dad always expect great things of Jesus and always give him praise. He is the one who always volunteers to wash the dishes, to run errands, to take out the trash, to baby-sit his brothers and sisters. He always has an angel face. He always gets a pat on the back and a “Good job, Jesus!” You can almost hear the whine of the other children, “Ah, Mom and Dad, Jesus never does anything wrong. He's your favorite.” Yes it was hard to be Jesus' brother or sister no matter how kind he was to you.
James and the rest of his brothers and sisters did not believe that Jesus was the Son of God until Jesus arose from the dead (John 7:5; 1Corinthians 15:7). After that we can see there was a definite change in James. James became a believer, and then he even became one of the early church leaders after Jesus ascended into heaven (Galatians 1:19; 2:9). Now James had a very different attitude toward Jesus:
"James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ," (James 1:1, NIV)
James was now very content to have Jesus, his brother, as his Savior and Lord. How important are we in our estimation? Do we want to be number one, or have we humbled ourselves? Is Jesus our Savior and Lord? Is He first now? Do we now consider ourselves humble servants of God or are we leading our own lives?
Write a private prayer response to today’s Bible study:
Please send your comments to me, Rod, the Author
Back to top of page
Back to Bible Study Menu
Go to Home page
About Us | New Bible Studies | FAQ's | Web Links | mobile app 
COPYRIGHT © 2011, MASTER'S TOUCH BIBLE STUDIES