Mark 3:7–19
“Jesus went up the mountain and summoned those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve, whom he also named apostles, to be with him, to send them out to preach, and to have authority to drive out demons.” —Mark 3:13–15 (CSB)
On the hillside above the crowds, Jesus does something both ordinary and world-shaping: he calls a handful of people to himself. The scene in Mark 3 is noisy and crowded—need, curiosity, and even demonic opposition swirl around him (Mark 3:7–12). And then Jesus climbs, calls, and creates a new kind of company. He gathers twelve not because they are the best candidates on paper, but because he wants them. He names them apostles—sent ones—but notice the order: “to be with him,” then “to send them out,” and then “to have authority.” Presence comes before proclamation. Identity before activity. Communion before commission.
What is a disciple of Jesus?
- Presence: To be with Jesus.
- Discipleship begins in relationship. Jesus calls us first “to be with him” (Mark 3:13). Eternal life itself is defined as knowing God and Jesus Christ whom he sent (John 17:3).
- The Great Commission flows out of Jesus’ promise of presence: “I am with you always” as we go and make disciples (Matthew 28:18–20). We are never sent apart from him.
- Practically, presence looks like unhurried time in Scripture and prayer, learning Jesus’ voice, and walking in step with him alongside his people.
- Proclamation: Tell others about Jesus.
- Jesus sent the Twelve out “to preach” (Mark 3:14). Our words matter because the gospel is news—good news to be spoken and shared.
- We speak with courage and tenderness, always ready to give a reason for the hope in us, “yet do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:14–16).
- We are ambassadors, representing Christ’s reconciling welcome to the world (2 Corinthians 5:20; Matthew 28:18–20). Proclamation is not pressure; it’s honest witness to what we’ve seen and heard.
- Participation: Help others find freedom in Jesus.
- Jesus grants authority “to drive out demons” (Mark 3:15). Disciples participate in his liberating work, confronting evil with his power and compassion.
- This includes resisting the enemy (1 Peter 5:8–9), standing firm in spiritual battle (Ephesians 6:11–12), and trusting that God “has rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of the Son he loves” (Colossians 1:13).
- Participation is prayerful and practical—intercession, deliverance, repentance, justice, mercy—joining Jesus in setting captives free.
In good company
Who can be a disciple of Jesus? Scripture holds together two beautiful truths.
- Those who are called by Jesus. “He summoned those he wanted” (Mark 3:13). Jesus initiates; grace starts with his voice and his choice. No one disciples themselves into the kingdom—Jesus invites us in.
- Those who come to Jesus. “And they came to him” (Mark 3:13). God’s heart is wide—he is “not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). He “wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:3–4). The call goes out; our part is to come.
When you look at the Twelve (Mark 3:16–19), you see how expansive this company really is: fishermen and a tax collector, a zealot and a doubter, brothers with tempers and a man who would later betray him. Their résumés don’t predict their roles. That’s the point. Discipleship isn’t a reward for spiritual achievement; it’s a response to Jesus’ invitation. If he can call and transform them, he can call and transform you.
Notice, too, that discipleship is never solo. Jesus calls us into a company—into a people. Presence, proclamation, and participation are communal practices. We learn his voice with others, we witness together, we contend for freedom together. When you follow Jesus, you are in good company: with him, and with his imperfect, beloved friends.
Practicing the three P’s this week
- Presence: Set aside one unhurried block of time to be with Jesus. Read Mark 3:7–19 slowly. Ask, “Where do I hear you calling me to be with you?” Sit in silence and respond.
- Proclamation: Identify one person you can encourage with hope in Christ. Pray for them by name. When the opportunity comes, share simply what Jesus is teaching you—gently and respectfully (1 Peter 3:15).
- Participation: Pray through Ephesians 6:11–12. Ask the Spirit to reveal any place of fear, bondage, or accusation—in you or someone you love. Stand firm in Christ’s authority and ask for his freedom (Colossians 1:13).
A final word for the hesitant heart
Maybe you’re thinking, I don’t belong in that company. I’m not spiritual enough, bold enough, free enough. Mark 3 says otherwise. Jesus calls who he wants, and he wants you near. The way into discipleship is not proving yourself; it’s coming to him. He will make you into what he calls you to be. First with him. Then sent by him. Always under his authority and in his love.
Inspired by the Centerpoint Church series, “Follow the King.”
