'''Epistle of James''' refers to the writings of James, son of Alpheus, the [[Bishop]] of [[Jerusalem]], the [[Lord]]'s brother and one of the [[twelve Apostles]]. It may be one of the earliest written works of the [[New Testament]], possibly as early as the late 40s. There is reason to conclude that this letter was written prior to the Jerusalem Council, which was held in A.D. 50. The authenticity of this inspired work has been fully accepted since at least the third century, as demonstrated by the various lists of the Sacred books drawn up since the fourth century,<ref>[http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08275b.htm Epistle of St. James] Catholic Encyclopedia</ref> although debate continues about who actually wrote it. | '''Epistle of James''' refers to the writings of James, son of Alpheus, the [[Bishop]] of [[Jerusalem]], the [[Lord]]'s brother and one of the [[twelve Apostles]]. It may be one of the earliest written works of the [[New Testament]], possibly as early as the late 40s. There is reason to conclude that this letter was written prior to the Jerusalem Council, which was held in A.D. 50. The authenticity of this inspired work has been fully accepted since at least the third century, as demonstrated by the various lists of the Sacred books drawn up since the fourth century,<ref>[http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08275b.htm Epistle of St. James] Catholic Encyclopedia</ref> although debate continues about who actually wrote it. |