Mark 6:7 – “Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse marks an important moment in Jesus’ ministry. After teaching and performing miracles Himself, Jesus begins to involve His disciples in the mission by sending them out to do the same work. He calls the Twelve, His closest followers, to Himself, gives them instructions, and sends them out in pairs.
Sending them out two by two was practical and symbolic. It provided companionship and mutual support, and it also fulfilled the Jewish principle that testimony is confirmed by two witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15). By giving them authority over impure spirits, Jesus empowered them to continue His mission of proclaiming God’s kingdom and pushing back against the forces of evil.
This moment isn’t just about delegation; it’s about discipleship. Jesus was preparing His followers to carry on His work after He was gone.
Historical Context
In first-century Jewish culture, rabbis often had disciples who learned from them by observing and participating in their work. Jesus’ method of involving His disciples in ministry was consistent with this tradition, but what set Him apart was the authority He gave them.
Authority over impure spirits wasn’t something the disciples could claim on their own. It was a divine authority given to them by Jesus. Casting out demons and healing were powerful signs of God’s kingdom breaking into the world, showing that Jesus had come to confront and defeat the forces of darkness.
At this point in Jesus’ ministry, opposition was growing, and He knew His time on earth was limited. By sending out the Twelve, He was expanding the reach of His mission and training His disciples for the work they would continue after His death, resurrection, and ascension.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the concept of delegated authority. The authority the disciples exercised wasn’t their own; it was given to them by Jesus. This reminds us that any power or authority Christians have to do God’s work comes from Him, not from ourselves.
It also emphasizes the importance of teamwork and community in ministry. The disciples were not sent out alone but in pairs, showing that God designed His work to be done in partnership with others.
Finally, this verse points to the reality of spiritual warfare. The mention of impure spirits reminds us that the battle for God’s kingdom is not just physical or social—it’s spiritual. Jesus equips His followers to confront these forces with His power.
Literary Analysis
This verse is a turning point in Mark’s Gospel. Up until now, Jesus has been the central figure performing miracles and proclaiming the kingdom. By sending out the Twelve, the focus broadens to include the disciples as active participants in His mission.
The structure of the verse is significant. It begins with Jesus calling the Twelve to Himself, emphasizing relationship and preparation, before moving to the act of sending them out. This pattern reflects a rhythm of drawing close to Jesus before going out to serve.
The pairing of “sending” with “authority” highlights the balance between action and empowerment. Jesus didn’t just send them; He equipped them for the task.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 28:18-20: The Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations, reflects the same principle of being sent with His authority.
- Luke 10:1-3: Jesus sends out seventy-two disciples in pairs, showing that this model of ministry wasn’t limited to the Twelve.
- Acts 1:8: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses…” This verse connects the authority given by Jesus with the empowering work of the Holy Spirit.
- Ephesians 6:12: This verse reminds us of the spiritual nature of the battle, saying, “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against… the spiritual forces of evil.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse reminds us that we are called to participate in God’s mission. Just as Jesus sent out the Twelve, He calls us to share His message and serve others in His name.
It also encourages us to rely on God’s authority and power rather than our own. Whether we’re sharing the Gospel, confronting spiritual challenges, or serving in practical ways, we do so with the authority and strength that comes from Jesus.
Finally, it highlights the importance of community in our faith journey. We are not meant to follow Jesus or serve Him alone. Partnering with others provides encouragement, accountability, and support.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows God’s love in His desire to involve His people in His work. He doesn’t just accomplish His mission on His own; He invites us to participate, equipping us with the power and authority we need.
God’s love is also evident in the way Jesus prepared and sent out His disciples. He didn’t leave them to figure it out on their own but gave them clear instructions, authority, and support. This reflects God’s care and provision for those who serve Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects directly to Jesus’ role as the one who calls, equips, and sends. It reflects His authority over all things, including the spiritual realm, and His willingness to share that authority with His followers.
It also points to Jesus’ larger mission. By sending out the Twelve, He was laying the foundation for the global spread of the Gospel after His resurrection. Acts 1:8 and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) are direct extensions of what began here in Mark 6:7.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge you to step out in faith and participate in God’s mission?
- In what ways can you rely on Jesus’ authority and power, rather than your own, in your daily life and ministry?
- How does the idea of being sent in pairs encourage you to partner with others in your faith journey?
- What does this verse teach you about the spiritual battle we face and the authority Jesus gives us to confront it?
- How can you stay connected to Jesus as you serve Him, just as the disciples were called to Him before being sent out?
This verse reminds us that Jesus not only calls us to follow Him but also equips and sends us to share His message and confront the challenges of the world with His authority and power.