James and John - Luke 6:12-16 (The Twelve Disciples/Apostles)

Series: The Twelve That Jesus Picked

In this series on the 12 disciples, or the 12 apostles, we come to James and John, the sons of thunder.

They are the sons of Zebedee and likely Salome. Salome is a wonderful example of faith for us, and surely was an inspiration to her sons.

James and John were some of the closest disciples to Jesus along with Peter. They were at the raising of Jairus's daughter and they were at the Transfiguration.

They joined Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, and they were with him for a private talk on eschatology.

Paul refers to them as pillars in the church.

James was the first apostle to be martyred. Some believe he may have ministered in Spain.

John is often referred to as John the Beloved. He was loyal and likely the closest intimate friend of Jesus.

John was the only disciple at the crucifixion, and John received a high honor when Jesus asked him to take care of his mother, Mary.

John is one of the most prolific writers in the New Testament, having written five books: John, 1-3 John and Revelation.

He founded Smyrna, Pergamos, Sardis, Philadelphia, Laodicea and Thyatira, which are 6 of the 7 churches that are mentioned in the book of Revelation.

He was boiled in oil, but miraculously he survived. He was exiled to the island of Patmos, but he later died of natural causes around 98 AD in Ephesus.