Jesus referred to James and John, the sons of Zebedee, as “Boanerges,” which means “Sons of Thunder.” This title is found in Mark 3:17:
**Mark 3:17 (ESV):**
*”James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder)”*
The exact reason Jesus called them “Sons of Thunder” is not explicitly stated in the text. However, it is widely interpreted as a reflection of their zealous, passionate, and sometimes fiery temperament. For example, their eagerness and bold responses are highlighted in a few other instances in Scripture:
1. **Luke 9:54-55 (ESV):**
*”And when his disciples James and John saw it, they said, ‘Lord, do you want us to tell fire to come down from heaven and consume them?’ But he turned and rebuked them.”*
– This account shows their impulsive and intense reaction toward a Samaritan village that rejected Jesus, which may align with their “thunderous” nature.
2. **Mark 10:35-37 (ESV):**
*”And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came up to him and said to him, ‘Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.’ And he said to them, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ And they said to him, ‘Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.'”*
– Their bold request to be seated next to Jesus in His glory further exemplifies their ambitious and strong-willed personalities.
These incidents suggest that Jesus may have given them this title as an affectionate recognition of their passionate and intense character. It likely reflects both their zeal for the mission and the need for their character to be tempered and directed toward God’s purposes.