Commentary on Mark 3:14

Mark 3:14 states, "And He appointed twelve, so that they would be with Him and that He could send them out to preach." This verse is pivotal in the narrative of Jesus' ministry, as it marks the formal selection of the twelve apostles who would play crucial roles in the establishment of the early church.

Significance of the Appointment

This moment is significant for several reasons:

• Divine Selection: Jesus’ decision to appoint the twelve was not random; it was a divine appointment indicating that they were chosen for a specific purpose. Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of divine calling in ministry, suggesting that those called by God are equipped to carry out His mission.
• Formation of Community: By appointing these twelve men, Jesus was forming a community of followers who would not only learn from Him but also support and share in His mission. Adam Clarke notes that this formation of a close-knit group underscores the relational aspect of discipleship—not just knowledge but relationship.
• Empowerment for Ministry: The purpose of the appointment was twofold: to be with Jesus and to be sent out for ministry. Albert Barnes highlights that the first aspect—being with Him—was crucial for their spiritual growth and understanding of His teachings, which would prepare them for the work of preaching.

The Essence of Discipleship

Jesus' call to the twelve epitomizes the essence of discipleship. Discipleship entails both being with the teacher and being sent out to teach others. Henry comments that being with Christ involves both learning and transformation, which enables the disciples to carry on the mission.

The notion of “being with Him” signifies a deep and personal relationship. As Adam Clarke illustrates, discipleship is not merely about following commands but entails immersion in the very life and presence of Christ, which shapes their character and mission.

Preparation for Preaching

Clark further elaborates on the significance of preparation for ministry. This preparation is not merely academic; it is transformational. The apostles were to witness Christ's life and ministry firsthand, which would empower them when they were eventually sent out to preach. Barnes emphasizes that true preaching is born out of a deep understanding of Christ, rooted in the experience of His presence.

The Call and Mission

The mission aspect—“and that He could send them out to preach”—is pivotal in understanding the apostolic role. The call to preach is grounded in the authority of Jesus. Henry posits that by sending them out, Jesus delegates His authority, showcasing that the work of the Gospel is a shared responsibility among the disciples.

The emphasis on preaching also points to the necessity of proclaiming the Gospel. As noted by Barnes, this charge exemplifies the urgency of their mission. The disciples were to be heralds of the good news, which underscores the active nature of faith—it must be shared with others.

The Nature of Preaching

Preaching, as understood in this context, is not a mere announcement but rather a passionate declaration of the Kingdom of God. Clarke highlights that effective preaching stems from a personal encounter with Christ; it is an overflow of the heart transformed by His message. This aligns with the Great Commission later given in Matthew 28, where Jesus commands His followers to go and make disciples of all nations.

Conclusion: Implications for Today

Mark 3:14 serves as a foundational text for understanding the principles of Christian leadership and discipleship. For pastors and theologians today, this verse calls attention to the importance of cultivating relationships with Christ and understanding the gravity of their mission. The dual emphasis on being with Jesus and going out to preach reminds church leaders to prioritize their own spiritual formation alongside equipping others for ministry.

In conclusion, the appointed twelve represent not only a historical fact but also a model for the Church's ongoing mission. Their calling invites all followers of Christ to engage deeply with Him and then extend that transformative experience to the world. The insights gleaned from public domain commentaries give depth to our understanding, enriching our approach to both personal discipleship and collective ministry in the name of Christ.