Portrait of a persecutor

Abruptly, woefully, the apostle James dies, murdered by Herod Agrippa. The narrative paints a portrait of a persecutor in all his contradictions and frustrations. But we learn not only about him but from him, drawing lessons about the kingdom of a greater and kinder king, even our Lord Jesus Christ, who governs all things for the good of his people and the glory of his name. His kingdom comes, regardless of the opposition.