Devine Scripture

Mark 3:14

What does Mark 3:14 mean?

A plain-English look at Mark 3:14 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Mark 3:14 means

Jesus formally appoints twelve disciples, establishing an inner circle that would be central to his earthly ministry and the future Church. The number twelve likely alludes to the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying the restorative and redemptive nature of Jesus' mission. His primary purpose for them was two-fold: first, that they would "be with him," emphasizing a close, intimate discipleship for learning and spiritual formation; second, "that he might send them forth to preach," indicating their future mission of proclaiming the gospel message to the world with his authority.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And he appointed twelve, that they might be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And he appointed twelve, that they might be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And he took twelve to be with him, so that he might send them out as preachers,

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and he appointed twelve, that they may be with him, and that he may send them forth to preach,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And he made that twelve should be with him, and that he might send them to preach.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And he appointed twelve that they might be with him, and that he might send them to preach,

Context

Building directly on Jesus' calling of specific individuals, this verse outlines the foundational purpose of the chosen twelve. It details their roles both as companions to Jesus and as future evangelists. This formal appointment sets the stage for the specific powers he bestows upon them in the next verse, providing them with the necessary authority for their mission.

v.13And he goeth up into the mountain, and calleth unto him whom he himself would; and they went unto him.

v.14This passage

v.15and to have authority to cast out demons:

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Luke 10:1

    Now after these things the Lord appointed seventy others, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself was about to come.

  • Acts 1:8

    But ye shall receive power, when the Holy Spirit is come upon you: and ye shall be my witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judæa and Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

  • Galatians 1:1

    Paul, an apostle (not from men, neither through man, but through Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead),

  • John 15:16

    Ye did not choose me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that ye should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.

  • Acts 1:24

    And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, who knowest the hearts of all men, show of these two the one whom thou hast chosen,

  • Luke 9:1

    And he called the twelve together, and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases.

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