Commentary on Mark 3:13

The verse Mark 3:13 states, "And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him." This verse serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Gospel of Mark, depicting Jesus’ selection of the Twelve Apostles. Below, we explore insights from various public domain commentaries to illuminate its significance for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars.

Contextual Overview

Mark 3:13 occurs during a critical period in Jesus' ministry, characterized by various tensions with religious leaders and growing popularity among the people. The call of the apostles marks a moment where Jesus gathers those who will bear witness to His ministry and serve as foundational leaders of the early Church.

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Preparation and Approach: Henry remarks on the intentionality of Jesus' actions as he ascends the mountain. He emphasizes that significant decisions in ministry often require solitude and communion with God. The act of going to the mountain conveys both a physical separation from the crowd and a spiritual significance, akin to the moments when Moses met God on Sinai.

The Call of the Disciples: According to Henry, Jesus calling those whom He desired highlights His sovereign authority in choosing His followers. This reflects the divine initiative in our relationship with God; it is He who calls us to service. The varied backgrounds and personalities of the apostles underscore the diverse means through which God works.

Albert Barnes' Notes

The Significance of the Mountain: Barnes notes that mountains are often places of revelation and significant divine encounters throughout Scripture. By going up into the mountain, Jesus positions Himself as a new lawgiver, similar to Moses. This act of retreating to a place of prayer and reflection underscores the importance of seeking God's guidance, especially when making crucial decisions.

Cordial Reception: The phrase "whom he would" suggests that the selection was both specific and purposeful. Barnes points out that this call represents a profound privilege—a calling not based on merit, but on Christ’s grace and authority. The coming of the apostles in response to Jesus' call is an example of obedience to divine beckoning.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

The Ascension and Invitation: Clarke highlights the act of going up into the mountain as indicative of Jesus setting apart time for prayer and communion with God. This solitude is essential, as it prepares Him for the significant moment of choosing and empowering His apostles.

Inclusive Call: Clarke remarks that the coming of the apostles illustrates the inclusivity of Jesus’ ministry. They came to Him, indicating that His call was not only profound but also tender and inviting. This invites readers to reflect on their own receptiveness to Christ's call in their lives.

Theological Implications

Mark 3:13 articulates several theological themes crucial for understanding Jesus' ministry and mission:

• The Sovereignty of God: This verse envelopes the divine initiative involved in calling individuals to service in the Kingdom.
• The Importance of Solitude: Jesus’ retreat to a mountain highlights the necessity of prayer and reflection in the decision-making process, a model for all in ministry.
• Discipleship: The act of calling reinforces the idea of discipleship as a response to Jesus' personal invitation, emphasizing obedience.

Practical Applications

The implications of Mark 3:13 are profound for contemporary readers, especially those in pastoral and theological roles:

• Leadership Development: Leaders should be intentional in their calling and choices, seeking God’s direction in selecting those who will serve alongside them in ministry.
• Prayer as Foundation: Emphasizing the necessity of prayer and reflection for decision-making in ministry is crucial for effective leadership.
• Embracing Diversity: The diversity of the Twelve Apostles reminds us to appreciate the varied backgrounds and gifts within church communities.

Conclusion

Mark 3:13 serves as a significant reminder of the deliberate and loving action of Jesus in calling His disciples. It reflects central themes of divine sovereignty, the power of prayer, and the nature of discipleship. For pastors, students, and scholars alike, this verse invites deep reflection on their own responses to Christ’s call and the implications for ministry in a modern context.