Leadership through Discipleship #27

James, Son of Alphaeus, The Power of Anonymity

“Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ” (1 Thessalonians 2:6).

James, the son of Alphaeus, was one of the Twelve, one of the disciples of Jesus. He is mentioned in four passages of Scripture, always in the ninth position in the lists of the disciples (Mt. 10:3; Mk. 3:18; Lk. 6:15; and Ac. 1:13). We have no record of anything outstanding in his life. There is no quote or question attributed to this disciple. He is always just one of “the Twelve.” He is neither outspoken advocate or background betrayer. He is simply a disciple of the Lord, called, committed and constant.

In our culture, success is often equated with notoriety. For one to be successful he should also be well known. The mention of his or her name should bring a nod of recognition, an association with accomplishment. Fortunately, being famous is not one of the requirements of Christian discipleship. Rather, the Scripture elevates the virtues of meekness, submission, and preferring others rather than seeking glory for oneself.

Today, James, the son of Alphaeus, would be instructed by a public relations specialist that he should be more assertive. He should let people know that he is associated with Jesus of Nazareth. He would be told to build his network. Expand his resume. Consider a publicist. After all, if you want to be remembered right up there with Peter, John, and (oh yeah) the other James you will have to get your name noticed. (The sons of Zebedee are always getting the spotlight!)

Being a discipleship leader is recognizing that it is about Jesus, not about us. Our success is making sure people know Him, not us. A discipleship leader becomes a success by doing the will of God, not by achieving notoriety.

Fame will come to few in the kingdom of God. Paul cautioned, “For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence” (1 Corinthians 1:26-29).

Paul never sought notoriety. It came to him but with it the pain of persecution. It was his passion and should be ours to declare Jesus Christ alone. Paul said, “And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God” (1 Corinthians 2:1-5).

One can be a fervent follower of Christ and never be noticed. It is possible to be a discipleship leader and never receive recognition or acclaim! Just follow Him!