Luke 6:13 – “When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse marks a significant turning point in Jesus’ ministry. After spending the entire night in prayer (Luke 6:12), Jesus calls His followers together and selects twelve men to be His apostles. The term “apostles” means “sent ones,” indicating that these men would carry a special mission. They weren’t chosen randomly; Jesus selected them after careful prayer, showing that their calling was guided by the will of God. These twelve would become the foundation of the church, spreading the message of the gospel after Jesus’ death and resurrection.
By choosing ordinary men—fishermen, a tax collector, and even a future betrayer (Judas Iscariot)—Jesus demonstrates that God’s mission is accomplished through those who are willing to follow Him, not through those who seem qualified by worldly standards.
Historical Context
In Jewish culture, the number twelve was significant, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. By choosing twelve apostles, Jesus is symbolically restoring and reconstituting God’s people, signaling the beginning of a new covenant community. The twelve apostles would serve as leaders in this renewed people of God, similar to how the twelve tribes formed the foundation of Israel.
At this point in Jesus’ ministry, His following had grown, but not all who followed Him were deeply committed. The twelve apostles were chosen to be His inner circle, receiving His teaching directly and witnessing His miracles firsthand. Their mission would extend beyond Jesus’ earthly ministry, as they were tasked with building the early church and spreading the good news.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of divine calling and God’s sovereignty in choosing people for His purposes. The apostles were chosen, not because of their qualifications or achievements, but because of God’s plan. This shows that God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things when they are willing to follow Him.
The selection of the twelve also points to the establishment of a new covenant community, emphasizing that Jesus’ mission is not just about personal salvation but about creating a community of believers who would spread God’s kingdom. Additionally, the fact that Jesus prayed all night before making this decision shows the importance of seeking God’s guidance in significant decisions.
Literary Analysis
Luke’s Gospel often highlights key moments in Jesus’ ministry with deliberate and concise language. The phrase “when morning came” indicates a new beginning, both literally and symbolically. Jesus’ act of calling the disciples and selecting twelve of them creates a sense of purpose and direction in the narrative. The contrast between the ordinary nature of the chosen men and the extraordinary mission they are given reflects one of Luke’s key themes—God’s kingdom is for everyone, and God’s power is made perfect in weakness.
The word “designated” (or “named” in some translations) is significant because it implies authority. By designating them as apostles, Jesus is not only calling them to follow but also commissioning them for a mission that will change the world.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 24:4 – Moses builds an altar with twelve pillars, representing the twelve tribes of Israel.
- Matthew 10:1-4 – A list of the twelve apostles and their initial mission.
- Acts 1:21-26 – The selection of Matthias to replace Judas after his betrayal and death.
- Ephesians 2:19-20 – The apostles and prophets are described as the foundation of the church, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- John 15:16 – Jesus reminds His disciples, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that God calls us to serve Him, not based on our abilities but on His grace and purpose. Like the apostles, we may feel unqualified or ordinary, but God can use anyone who is willing to follow Him. This passage also challenges us to seek God’s guidance in important decisions, just as Jesus did through prayer.
It’s also a call to remember that being a follower of Christ means living with purpose. Just as the apostles were sent out to spread the gospel, modern believers are called to be Christ’s representatives in the world, sharing His love and truth wherever they go.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in how He calls ordinary people to participate in His extraordinary plan. Jesus didn’t choose perfect or elite individuals—He chose men with flaws and weaknesses, knowing they would grow through their relationship with Him. This demonstrates God’s loving and patient nature. He doesn’t expect perfection; He simply calls us to follow and trust Him.
The fact that Jesus prayed all night before choosing the twelve reflects God’s care and intentionality. The apostles weren’t an afterthought—they were part of a plan rooted in God’s love for humanity, with the ultimate goal of salvation and the spreading of the gospel to the world.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse reveals Jesus as the One who initiates God’s redemptive plan and builds the foundation of His church. By choosing the twelve apostles, Jesus is preparing for the establishment of a new covenant community, with Himself as the cornerstone. His careful selection of the apostles reflects His role as the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep and guides them according to God’s will.
This passage also connects to Jesus’ future role as the one who commissions His followers to continue His mission after His resurrection. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus gives the Great Commission, sending His disciples to make more disciples of all nations. The apostles’ calling in this verse is the starting point of that mission.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does knowing that Jesus chose ordinary people to be His apostles encourage you in your own walk with God?
- Are there any areas in your life where you feel unqualified to serve God? How can you trust Him to equip you for His purposes?
- How can you follow Jesus’ example of seeking God’s guidance through prayer before making important decisions?
- What does it mean to you to be “sent” by Jesus in your daily life, similar to how the apostles were sent?
- How can you be part of building God’s kingdom in your community, just as the apostles helped build the early church?