Friday, July 3, 2026

“James the son of Alphaeus” (Luke 6:15c)

 

MORNING SPIRITUAL DIARY FOR 7/3/2026 9:56 AM

My Worship Time                                                                 Focus:  “James the son of Alphaeus”

Bible Reading & Meditation                                                                      Reference: Luke 6:15c

            Message of the verse:  “James the son of Alphaeus.”

            This morning’s SD will be a very short one as there is not much to say about James the son of Alphaeus.”

            John MacArthur writes “Despite his supreme privilege as one of the twelve men chosen by the Lord Jesus Christ to be His personal representatives, virtually nothing is known about James.  All that the New Testament reveals about him is that his father’s name was Alphaeus, his mother’s name was Mary (Matt. 27:56; Mark 15:40).”

(Matt. 27:56; Mark 15:40)

“56  among whom were Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Joseph and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.”

“40  There were also women looking on from a distance, among whom were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses, and Salome.”

“Since Matthew’s father was also named Alphaeus (Mark 2:14), it is possible that the two were brothers.”

(Mark 2:14)

14  And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him.”

            “In Mark 15:40, James is referred to by his nickname ‘James the Less’ Mikros (‘Less’) means, ‘little.’ The nickname may mean that James was small in stature.  It may also mean that he was young in age.  Most likely, however, it refers to his relative lack of importance and influence in comparison to the more famous James, the brother of John and member of the inner circle of the Twelve.

            “Where James ministered after Pentecost is not known.  He may have preached the gospel in Persia, or Egypt, of both.  According to some traditions, he was martyred by crucifixion in Egypt.  This humble servant’s only distinguishing mark is his obscurity.  He sought no recognition, displayed no great leadership skills, asked no critical questions, and demonstrated no unusual insights.  Only his name remains, and the honor due him as an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ.  There is a far greater record of his life and ministry in heaven.”

Spiritual Meaning for my life today:  Being humble like this man was is certainly something that is needed more in my life.

My Steps of Faith for Today:  Trusting the Lord to giver great comfort to my wife as the cancer in her body grows worse.

7/3/2026 10:15 AM

 

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