SONS OF THUNDER

Jesus called twelve men to be apostles. Today, we'll focus on two ... James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, to whom Jesus gave the name Boanerges, that is, 'Sons of Thunder'. (Mark 3:17) 

Christ obviously knew their aggressive, insensitive nature and thus chose 'Boanerges' as a fitting nickname. These brothers were 'rough-hewn' fishermen who never backed away from a confrontation (and ... actually sought it at times). 

For instance: On one occasion, the people of Samaria did not welcome Jesus (because it was made known that He was traveling to Jerusalem) ... When His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and destroy them?” (Luke 9:54) 

Their fervency, impetuosity, and anger could correctly be described as 'thunderous'. Jesus rebuked them, saying ... You do not know what kind of spirit you are; for the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. (Luke 9:55-56)

They were changed by God ... 

The two men who were once called 'Boanerges', became known for something else entirely. They were used by the Lord to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ and help establish the early church. 

James wrote an epistle to the 'twelve tribes' which showed that his zealous nature had not subsided, but ... now his words were filled with encouragement, issued from a heart of compassion. His instructions for Christians back then are still relevant for us Christians today. It is noted that James became the first apostle to be martyred. 

John authored five books of the Bible (the Gospel of John, 3 epistles, and Revelation). He penned the most quoted verse in Scripture ... John 3:16. His life was dramatically changed from being an oft-abrasive, weather-worn fisherman, into 'the one whom Jesus loved'. He was the last of the apostles to die. 

The 'Sons of Thunder' were transformed into the 'likeness of Christ' ... and that same work of 'sanctification' continues in the lives of true believers today. Can you look back and see a change has taken place?