Did Jesus Heal Little James? | Angel Studios (2024)

Little James in The Chosen

Little James, otherwise known as the Apostle James, was among Jesus’ most loyal disciples. His nickname is meant to set him apart from another disciple, James the Greater, or “Big James” in The Chosen.

There is little known about James in the Bible, aside from his dedication to Jesus and His ministry. However, The Chosen expanded his backstory and wrote the character of Little James to have a physical disability that causes him to limp. Read on to discover if Jesus did heal Little James in The Chosen, if this interaction is biblically accurate, and how this interaction has impacted millions of lives.

Did Jesus Heal Little James in The Chosen?

One of the most powerful and poignant scenes in The Chosen occurred in Season 3 Episode 2. In this episode, Little James approaches Jesus after He preaches to the apostles, giving them the power to heal. Little James explains that he finds it hard to believe he has the power to heal, given that Jesus has never healed his condition. In previous episodes, Little James described his disability as a “form of paralysis.”

Many of you may have the exact same question: Why did Jesus not heal Little James?

Jesus explains that He needs the testimony of people like James who have enough faith not to be healed. He needs people like Little James who will still believe and testify of God, despite his sufferings. Jesus testifies that James is able to give a unique and inspirational testimony about the power of waiting on the Lord.

See Jesus give his explanation in this clip:

Does James Have a Disability in the Bible?

There is no biblical evidence to support the suggestion that James had a disability. The Chosen often takes creative liberties with their portrayal of the apostles and expands on existing scriptures. While the scene in Season 3 Episode 2 where Little James asks Jesus why He hasn’t healed him is not biblically accurate, similar sentiments are shared by Paul in 2 Corinthians 12: 7-10.

7 So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited.

8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me.

9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Like Little James in The Chosen, Paul complains about a thorn in the flesh that plagues him. God responds by reminding Paul of his endless mercy and proclaims that His power is made manifest when people bring their weaknesses to Him. Jesus gives Little James a similar explanation in The Chosen, saying that his sufferings are not in vain and his weaknesses will make him one of His strongest witnesses.

The Impact of Season 3 Episode 2: “Two by Two”

Season 3 Episode 2 of The Chosen has the reputation of being one of the most profound episodes in the entire series. Millions of fans around the world have resonated with Little James’ struggle and his wrestle with his faith. In fact, Jordan Walker Ross, the actor portraying Little James in the series, shared the personal significance of this scene, drawing a parallel to his own life. Born with cerebral palsy and scoliosis, Ross opened up about the profound connection he feels to the portrayal of Little James.

Hear him speak on the impact of playing Little James:

Not only did this episode impact the cast and crew, but fans around the world. Nick Vujicic was born without arms and legs and found himself asking God the same questions as Little James. See him sit down with Director Dallas Jenkins as they discuss how he’s navigated his disability.

Catch up on The Chosen

Get caught up with all the impactful moments from The Chosen and Pay it Forward so inspirational stories like Little James’ can continue to spread more hope and light to the world.