Podcast Summary: Catholic Saints – Episode on St. James the Lesser
Podcast Information
- Title: Catholic Saints
- Host/Author: Augustine Institute
- Episode: St. James the Lesser
- Release Date: May 3, 2025
- Description: This episode delves into the life and legacy of St. James the Lesser, distinguishing him from other biblical figures named James. Hosted by Mary McGhehan and featuring Dr. James Perthrow, a professor of Sacred Scripture and Theology, the discussion explores St. James's role in the early Church, his writings, and his enduring influence on Catholic faith.
1. Introduction to St. James the Lesser
Mary McGhehan opens the episode by highlighting the common confusion surrounding the multiple individuals named James in the Bible. She emphasizes the aim of the podcast: to explore the lives of officially recognized Catholic saints to inspire and deepen the faith of listeners.
"St. James the Lesser is often confused with many other St. James in scripture. So there's a lot of James out there, and I don't think we actually know that much about St. James the Lesser."
[00:30] Mary McGhehan
2. Distinguishing St. James the Lesser from Other Jameses
Dr. James Perthrow provides a comprehensive overview of the different Jameses mentioned in the New Testament. He clarifies that St. James the Lesser is distinct from James the son of Zebedee (James the Greater) and James, the brother or cousin of Jesus.
"James, the brother, cousin of Jesus, becomes the first bishop in Jerusalem after the resurrection of Jesus."
[03:11] Dr. James Perthrow
He explains the early church's confusion, noting that Jerome in the 400s conflated James the Less with James son of Alphaeus, one of the Twelve Apostles, to streamline the multiple identities.
"Jerome... argues that James the Less is actually James son of Alphaeus from the list of the 12."
[04:24] Dr. James Perthrow
3. St. James the Lesser’s Role in the Early Church
Dr. Perthrow outlines St. James the Lesser's significant contributions as the first bishop of Jerusalem. He played a pivotal role in the Council of Acts 15, which deliberated on the requirements for Gentile Christians.
"James was a really important part of the council in Acts 15 about how they're going to bring Gentiles into the church."
[03:17] Dr. James Perthrow
He also confirms that this James authored the Epistle of James, reinforcing his theological influence.
"James who was the bishop of Jerusalem... also ends up writing the Epistle of James in our New Testament."
[04:08] Dr. James Perthrow
4. The Epistle of James and Its Theological Significance
The discussion shifts to the Epistle of James, highlighting its emphasis on the integration of faith and works. Dr. Perthrow contrasts James's message with that of St. Paul, clarifying that both auteurs advocate for a faith that manifests in deeds.
"James says, 'You can see that a person isn't justified by faith alone, but by works or works that complete your faith.'"
[10:23] Dr. James Perthrow
He elaborates on how James addresses different audiences compared to Paul, focusing on believers whose faith does not produce corresponding actions.
"James is responding to people who will separate the two. And James is happy to sort of play that game and say, if you're going to distinguish faith from works, then faith is dead without works."
[12:00] Dr. James Perthrow
5. Character and Legacy of St. James the Lesser
Drawing from Eusebius's church history, Dr. Perthrow paints a vivid picture of St. James's virtuous character. Known as James the Just, he was revered for his holiness, abstinence, and unwavering dedication to prayer and intercession.
"James was known as James the Justice, the Righteous... he drank no wine or strong drink, nor did he eat flesh."
[18:00] Dr. James Perthrow
He recounts James's persistent prayers for the forgiveness of those who had crucified Jesus, highlighting his role as a peacemaker and his effectiveness in converting many in Jerusalem through his gentle yet steadfast approach.
"He was able to win over and convert many in Jerusalem... by doing this right, he was able to win over and convert many."
[20:30] Dr. James Perthrow
6. Application to Modern Faith
Mary McGhehan and Dr. Perthrow discuss how St. James the Lesser's example of integrating faith with works serves as a powerful model for contemporary Catholics. They stress the importance of embodying one's professed beliefs through actions.
"If you are a hearer of the law of God's word, but not a doer of it... you're not actually on the boat."
[17:02] Dr. James Perthrow
Dr. Perthrow encourages listeners to not only admire the virtues of the saints but also to actively seek their intercession and guidance in living out their faith authentically.
"Let what you profess to believe and what you do be one... ask St. James to intercede for us and guide us in a way of patient and intercessory righteousness that he had for us."
[21:03] Dr. James Perthrow
7. Conclusion and Reflection
The episode concludes with reflections on the enduring legacy of St. James the Lesser. Dr. Perthrow emphasizes the importance of reading and internalizing the Epistle of James to fully grasp the harmony between faith and deeds.
"Read his Epistle and to read through it, to let his call... completely. Let it punch you in the gut a bit and let it also sort of lift you up and call you to prayer."
[21:28] Dr. James Perthrow
Mary McGhehan wraps up the discussion by inviting listeners to embrace the teachings of St. James and seek his intercession as they strive to live out their faith with integrity and compassion.
Key Takeaways:
- St. James the Lesser is a distinct figure from other Jameses in the New Testament, known for his role as the first bishop of Jerusalem and author of the Epistle of James.
- His Epistle emphasizes that faith without works is dead, complementing St. Paul's teachings by advocating for a living, actionable faith.
- Character of St. James: Renowned for his righteousness, abstinence, and persistent intercession, he effectively bridged gaps within the early Church through his exemplary life.
- Modern Application: Catholics are encouraged to emulate St. James's integration of faith and deeds, seeking his intercession to foster a genuine and active faith.
Notable Quotes:
-
"James the Just... was allowed to enter the sanctuary and he wore linen, kind of like a priest."
[18:00] Dr. James Perthrow -
"James is a beautiful model for us today as well... the knees became callous like a camel."
[21:03] Dr. James Perthrow
Final Thought: St. James the Lesser exemplifies the unity of belief and action, serving as an enduring inspiration for Catholics seeking to deepen their faith through both words and deeds.