There are two things known about James: He was one of the Lord’s disciples and he was the son of a man named Alphaeus. Each of the four times he is mentioned in the Bible, his name is listed among the those identified as the 12 Apostles of Christ. However, there are a few theories about who James was, we do know he wasn’t as prominent as for instance the “Sons of Thunder,” hence the moniker James the Less.
Maybe James was like so many of us who tend to be more introverted. In a world that is intended to be progressively social, open, and out-going, introverts frequently end up appearing strange. However, since the Kingdom of Heaven has been advancing on the earth, God challenges us to make right judgments and to stop judging by mere appearances (John 7:24).
In social settings, thoughtful people find it difficult interacting with others since casual banter isn’t very enjoyable to them. Introversion is about energy management, not shyness with its fear of social judgment, low simulation is simply preferred. They are intentional about investing in alone time. These personality types are quiet and reflective, they work well at individual tasks and activities, befriending one or two people so they can get to know them well. They are more likely to take part in discussions of importance that hold meaning to them. Introversion is not a disorder or something to be “fixed.”
There are a couple reasons for my speculating about James’ personality. First, and most importantly, James was a witness of all Jesus said and did throughout Israel and in Jerusalem, and the TLB version of Acts 10:39 adds where the Lord was murdered on a cross. Those years James traveled the region with Jesus definitely must have given him a lot to mull over – think about, analyze, wrestle with – the discrepancies – friction, imbalance, contrast – in regard to what he heard spoken, when compared to the behaviors being exhibited
Luke wrote to tell of an incident, one of how many similar incidents the Lord encountered that were not recorded. Luke explained the Jewish leaders would send spies to keep a close watch on Jesus. There could be no doubt these same men who made the life choice to be God’s representatives would have chastised someone for breaking God’s commandment “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor,” Exodus 20:16.
It wasn’t just a matter of not wanting Jesus in their neighborhood, although their behavior clearly demonstrates a deliberate disregard for the ways and will of God. Evil intent was on display, for these men of prestige mercilessly sought out a reason, any reason, to hand the Lord over to the power and authority of the Roman governor.
Sadly, astoundingly, they sent individuals, who they may never would have broken bread with, because of their disreputable character. Or much more obviously due to status they sent someone to do what they felt they were above doing, not realizing just how underhanded this self-deceptive pattern – inclination, tendency, trait – to minimize, rationalize, avoid, deny, manipulate, compare, blame…that deceives a person especially concerning their true nature, feelings, thoughts, beliefs, behaviors.
On this occasion Luke wrote about one of those spies pretending to be sincere, to be honest approached Jesus, “Teacher, we know You speak and teach what is right and You show no partiality to anyone; instead, You teach the way of God honestly and in truth.” Though the clincher “But” wasn’t spoken, I’m sure this man’s posturing suggested his question would surely deliver the knockout punch that would send Jesus away for good.
Today we know that didn’t happen; however, James as well as every other person in attendance were caused to be astounded by the simplicity of the Truth, which cut through all the duplicity to silence them, “Give to Ceasar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s,” Luke 20:25.
James Son of Alphaeus in its entirety can be heard on the same titled podcast found on the website – – ForGodForeHisGlory.com