Acts 12:2

“Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John, in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. He called them,”

Introduces James, who is mentioned in Acts 12:2.

“It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them.”

Contextual reference; introduces the persecution led by Herod.

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

Shares theme of suffering for the faith.

“When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained.”

Relates to the theme of martyrdom for faith.

“While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep.”

Example of early Christian martyrdom.