10 Facts on the Book of James and Author

Angel Gabriel Zechariah Reacts to God’s Message

10 Facts on the Book of James and Author

Was Paul the author of the book of James? No, James the Just wrote it.

Who was James?

James wasn’t one of the apostles. He wasn’t the one called James the son of Zebedee (Matthew 4:21) or James the son of Alphaeus (Luke 24:10).
James the Just was the half-brother of Jesus (Matthew 13:55).
He didn’t believe in Jesus during his time on earth (John 7:5). He believed in Christ when Jesus appeared to him after his resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:7).
James became the leader of the church in Jerusalem after Peter was arrested and left Jerusalem.
He played a major role in convincing the Jewish leaders to accept Gentiles without requiring them to become Jews and be circumcised (Acts 15:13-21). He quoted Amos, reminding them that salvation of the Gentiles was prophesied.

“In that day I will restore the fallen house of David. I will repair its damaged walls. From the ruins I will rebuild it and restore its former glory. And Israel will possess what is left of Edom and all the nations I have called to be mine.” The Lord has spoken, and he will do these things. (Amos 9:11-12 NLT)

5 Facts about the Book of James

James died in A.D. 62. The book was written around A.D. 48.
It is the 59th Book of the Bible, but it was the first letter written in the New Testament.
The Book of James was written while Paul was on his first missionary journey and before the Jerusalem Council.
It’s a how-to guide on not only hearing the Word of God, but doing it: living a Christian life of faith, dealing with confrontation, commitment to God, and attitude and behavior when challenged.
After Stephen’s martyrdom, persecution against believers increased. He wrote the letter to encourage the believers in their faith during difficult times in hostile environments.

In contrast to most New Testament writers, James barely mentioned Jesus directly in his letter. However, it is saturated with the teachings of Jesus, in particular the Sermon on the Mount. He also references indirectly to all Jesus’ famous teachings.

The book of James gives practical advice about Christian living and ethics; the How To Live Like a Christian Guide.