Person

James, the brother of Jesus

Also known as James the Just

Leader of the Jerusalem church and brother of Jesus.

Filed underTheologians & Historical FiguresChurch History

Definition

The oldest brother of Jesus and a prominent leader in the Jerusalem church. He is identified by Paul as a 'pillar' of the church and met with Paul three years after the latter's conversion.

Scripture

  • James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillarsidentified as leader

Sources

  1. 1.Everett Ferguson Church History: Volume One: From Christ to Pre-Reformation. 2nd ed.. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2013). pp. 33-44

Last revised August 18, 2026