James: the Apostle

Summary

Elder Neal Phelan, Jr. preaches about the Apostle James, highlighting his background as a wealthy fisherman's son and his passionate, zealous nature as one of the 'sons of thunder.' The sermon emphasizes the sacrifices James made to follow Jesus, including leaving a prosperous business and ultimately becoming the first Christian martyr. It also explores the cost of discipleship, urging believers to put Christ first in their lives and be willing to bear their cross, drawing from Jesus' teachings in Luke 14. The message portrays the apostles as ordinary men with flaws, called by God to spread the gospel despite challenges and opposition.