The Gospel of Mark (Part 17)

Date: 13 July 2025

Speaker: Justus Swart

In Mark 6:7–13, Jesus sends out the twelve disciples in pairs, giving them authority over evil spirits and instructing them to travel light. They were to go without food, money, or extra clothing. This was a training mission to prepare them for future ministry, teaching them to rely fully on God’s provision. The paired approach to ministry also provided accountability and support, a model we see repeated throughout Acts. While these instructions were descriptive and not prescriptive, the principles of faith, partnership, and dependence on God still apply today.

Jesus also prepared the disciples for rejection, telling them to “shake the dust off” their feet when people refused their message. This act symbolized leaving behind spiritual defilement and showed that rejection of the gospel is ultimately on the hearer, not the messenger. Today, we’re reminded that our job is to faithfully share the gospel, and that the message we preach, remains the same as it was for the 12 (call to repentance).