James and His Christian Service

James gradually was recognized as a leader.  When Peter, the church's key leader during Acts 1-7, left Jerusalem, James was the successor.

D.A. Hayes writes this:

"When he was exalted to this leadership we do not know, but all indications seem to point to the fact that at a very early period James was the recognized executive authority in the church at Jerus, which was the church of Pentecost and the church of the apostles... All Christian Jews would look to Jerus as the primitive source of their organization and faith, and the head of the church at Jerus would be recognized by them as their chief authority."

James wrote his epistle around this time.  The content of this reveals that he was an active Christian. These are some important moments is James' life.

During Jesus' Public Ministry:

John 2:12 - Right after Jesus turned water in wine
Matthew 12:46-50 - Waiting with family as Jesus spoke
John 7: 1-9 - Brothers didn't believe

Early Days as a Believer:

1 Corinthians 15:7 - Jesus appeared to him

Early Years as a Servant for Jesus Christ:

Acts 1:14 - Devoting themselves to prayer
Galatians 1:18-19 - Not all believed he was a Christian

Successor to Peter as Leader of Jerusalem Church:

Acts 12:17 - Peter said repent to Jesus (authority)
Acts 15:13 - Spoke as a leader
Galatians 2:1, 9-10 - James was strong in his faith
Acts 21:18-26 - Last appearance of James in the New Testament


Well that is all for tonight.

- Mallory