Mark 3:13-19 is about Jesus selecting twelve apostles to be with him, whom he also named disciples, signifying the importance of close companionship and training in carrying out God’s work.
13 And he went up on the mountain and called to him those whom he desired, and they came to him.
14 And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach
15 and have authority to cast out demons.
16 He appointed the twelve: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter);
17 James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder);
18 Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Cananaean,
19 and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.
Setting the Scene for Mark 3:13-19
In Mark chapter 3, we find Jesus on a mountainside with a large crowd gathered around Him. The scene is serene, with the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant sound of birds chirping in the background. The sun is beginning to set, casting a warm golden glow over the group of people who have come to hear Jesus speak.
Among the crowd are the twelve disciples whom Jesus had chosen. They are a diverse group of individuals, each with their own unique background and personality. There is Simon Peter, a fisherman with a rugged exterior but a heart full of passion for the Lord. James and John, the sons of thunder, are there too, known for their fiery zeal. Matthew, the tax collector, stands apart from the others, a reminder of Jesus’ message of love and forgiveness for all.
As the disciples gather around Him, Jesus begins to speak to them, imparting wisdom and guidance for their ministry ahead. He appoints them as apostles, giving them the authority to preach and drive out demons. The disciples listen intently, their eyes fixed on Jesus as He lays out the path they are to follow in spreading the good news of the kingdom of God. The moment is charged with anticipation and purpose, as these ordinary men are called to do extraordinary things in the name of their Lord.
What is Mark 3:13-19 about?
Jesus selects his twelve disciples in this verse. This selection holds immense significance as Jesus handpicks these individuals to be in close fellowship with Him and to further His mission on Earth. Jesus is entrusting these disciples with the responsibility of spreading His teachings and love to others. This act highlights the importance of community and working together to spread the message of faith and goodwill.
Have you ever thought about the power of chosen companionship? We too can carefully select individuals who uplift and inspire us in our own journeys, just as Jesus did with His disciples. These disciples witnessed firsthand His teachings, miracles, and compassion by choosing to be with Jesus. Being in the company of those who share our beliefs and values can nurture our spiritual growth and empower us to carry out acts of kindness and service in the world. Jesus’ selection of the twelve disciples serves as a reminder for us to be intentional in our relationships and to seek out companions who will support us in our faith journey.
Understanding what Mark 3:13-19 really means
Jesus’ actions in Mark 3:13-19 hold profound significance, as He ascends a mountainside, reminiscent of divine encounters like Moses receiving the Ten Commandments. The deliberate selection of the twelve disciples as apostles underscores the divine purpose behind their calling. Their obedience to Jesus’ call reflects a willingness to follow Him, setting a powerful example for believers today.
The appointment of the twelve apostles symbolizes the establishment of a new covenant community, mirroring the twelve tribes of Israel. This act highlights the importance of relationship with Jesus before engaging in ministry work. The dual role assigned to them—to preach and drive out demons—emphasizes the essential aspects of proclamation and spiritual warfare in the mission of spreading the Gospel.
Related passages like Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 1:8, and John 15:16 further illuminate the disciples’ mission and the broader call to all believers. The Great Commission underscores the mandate to make disciples of all nations, while Acts 1:8 speaks of the empowerment through the Holy Spirit for witnessing. Jesus’ words in John 15:16 emphasize His intentional choice of individuals for bearing lasting fruit in His mission.
Today, the concept of divine calling remains relevant as Jesus invites each person to follow Him and participate in His redemptive work. Believers are not merely spectators but active participants in advancing the Kingdom of God. The emphasis on community and relationship with Jesus echoes the importance of being part of a faith community and nurturing a personal connection with the Lord.
Consider Sarah, a young woman who, like the disciples, responded to a deep calling from Jesus to start a youth ministry. Through her obedience, many lives were transformed, illustrating the enduring power of Jesus’ call to His followers. This anecdote serves as a modern-day example of how embracing one’s divine calling can lead to significant impact and transformation in the lives of others.
In conclusion, Mark 3:13-19 reminds us that Jesus calls each believer with a specific purpose. By responding to His call, nurturing a relationship with Him, and actively engaging in His mission, we can discover our true purpose and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of God’s Kingdom. Just as the twelve apostles were chosen and appointed by Jesus, we too are called to be His ambassadors, spreading His message of love and redemption to a world in need.
How can we discern who Jesus is calling?
Jesus specifically calls certain individuals to be his disciples in this passage from the book of Mark. He goes up to a mountainside and calls those he wanted to be with him, indicating that it was Jesus who selected them and not the other way around. This implies that the ones chosen have been specifically called by Jesus for a unique purpose and role within his ministry.
The fact that Jesus called these individuals suggests that he perceived something in them that made them suitable for the task. He saw potential, dedication, and faith in them that qualified them to be his disciples. Therefore, we can discern who Jesus is calling by looking at their qualities and characteristics that align with the qualities valued by Jesus. It is not a random selection but rather a purposeful choosing of those who are willing to follow, serve, and learn from him. Those who respond to his call, who are willing to leave behind their old lives and follow him wholeheartedly, are ultimately called by Jesus. He calls those with a desire to learn from him, to be in his presence, and to be part of his mission. It is an invitation that requires a personal response and a commitment to walk in his ways.
Application
Picture your life as a mission, much like your job or fostering your family. Jesus called His disciples to be close, learn, and then take action—just as we are meant to do in our daily lives. Think about how you can draw near to Him, deepen your understanding, and actively spread His love, just as you do with your responsibilities at work or home. Will you step up, commit to being a faithful disciple, and share His message with those around you?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.