James, often referred to as "the Lord's brother," is a significant figure in the New Testament and early Christian history. He is traditionally identified as one of the sons of Mary and Joseph, making him a half-brother to Jesus Christ. This identification is supported by several New Testament passages, including Matthew 13:55, which lists James among Jesus' siblings: "Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t His mother’s name Mary, and aren’t His brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas?" .

Role in the Early Church

James emerged as a prominent leader in the early Christian community in Jerusalem. His leadership is particularly evident in the Acts of the Apostles and the Epistle to the Galatians. In Acts 15, during the Council of Jerusalem, James plays a crucial role in addressing the issue of Gentile converts and the Mosaic Law. After much debate, James delivers a decisive speech, saying, "It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not cause trouble for the Gentiles who are turning to God" (Acts 15:19). His influence and authority are further underscored by Paul in Galatians 2:9, where James is described as one of the "pillars" of the church, alongside Peter and John.

The Epistle of James

James is traditionally credited with authoring the Epistle of James, a book in the New Testament that emphasizes practical Christian living and ethical conduct. The epistle opens with the greeting, "James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes in the Dispersion: Greetings" (James 1:1). The letter is notable for its focus on the relationship between faith and works, famously stating, "faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead" (James 2:17). This emphasis on living out one's faith through actions has made the epistle a key text in discussions of Christian ethics and morality.

Martyrdom and Legacy

According to early Christian tradition and historical accounts, James was martyred for his faith. The Jewish historian Josephus records that James was executed by stoning around 62 AD, during a period of high priestly transition in Jerusalem. His steadfast faith and leadership left a lasting impact on the early church, and he is often remembered as a model of piety and devotion.

James' legacy continues to be influential in Christian thought, particularly in discussions about the nature of faith, the role of works, and the leadership of the early church. His life and writings offer a profound insight into the challenges and dynamics of the nascent Christian community and its efforts to define its identity in a diverse and often hostile environment.