MARK 06:07-13
THE MISSION OF THE TWELVE
Text – Mark 6:7–13
7 He summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits.
8 He instructed them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick—no food, no sack, no money in their belts.
9 They were, however, to wear sandals but not a second tunic.
10 He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave from there.
11 Whatever place does not welcome you or listen to you, leave there and shake the dust off your feet in testimony against them.”
12 So they went off and preached repentance.
13 They drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.
Historical and Jewish Context
Jesus’ sending of the Twelve marks a pivotal moment in His ministry—the sharing of His mission and authority. In Jewish tradition, the number twelve symbolized the twelve tribes of Israel, representing the restoration of God’s people. By sending them “two by two,” Jesus followed Jewish custom, where testimony required two witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15). Traveling light—with no food, money, or extra clothing—demonstrated absolute trust in God’s providence and dependence on the hospitality of others. Shaking the dust from their feet was a symbolic gesture performed by devout Jews when leaving Gentile territory, expressing separation from unbelief and moral defilement. Here it served as a prophetic warning to those who rejected the Gospel. Their anointing with oil connected to ancient Jewish healing practices (cf. Isaiah 1:6) and anticipated the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.
Catholic Theological Perspective
In Catholic theology, this passage prefigures the apostolic mission of the Church and the sacramental ministry of priests and bishops. Jesus entrusts His divine authority to the Twelve, empowering them to proclaim the Gospel, heal the sick, and drive out evil. Their poverty and simplicity are essential signs that the mission’s power comes from God, not from human strength or wealth. The anointing with oil foreshadows the Church’s use of sacred chrism and oils in the sacraments of healing, confirmation, and ordination.
This passage also underscores that Christian discipleship involves both proclamation and service. The apostles’ authority over unclean spirits and their ministry of healing express the Church’s continuing mission to liberate souls from sin and to bring spiritual and physical restoration through grace. The rejection they face echoes Christ’s own experience, yet the command to move on peacefully reflects the freedom and dignity of Gospel ministry.
Parallels in Scripture
Deuteronomy 19:15 – Two witnesses confirm testimony.
Luke 9:1–6 – Parallel account of the mission of the Twelve.
Matthew 10:5–15 – Extended version including Jesus’ missionary instructions.
James 5:14 – “Anoint the sick with oil in the name of the Lord.”
Acts 13:51 – Paul and Barnabas shake the dust from their feet after rejection in Antioch.
Key Terms
Apostles: “Sent ones,” commissioned by Christ to continue His mission.
Authority over unclean spirits: Participation in Jesus’ divine power to liberate from evil.
Oil: Symbol of healing, consecration, and the Holy Spirit’s presence.
Repentance: The heart of the Gospel—turning from sin toward God’s kingdom.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This Gospel is often read in liturgies commissioning missionaries, catechists, or ministers. It reflects the Church’s universal call to evangelization and service. The simplicity Jesus commanded challenges modern disciples to live with detachment and trust in God’s providence. The Church continues the apostles’ mission through preaching, healing, and sacramental ministry, particularly through the Anointing of the Sick and the sacrament of Reconciliation.
Conclusion
The sending of the Twelve reveals the missionary nature of the Church. Jesus shares His authority and power with those He calls, entrusting them with His mission of healing, deliverance, and conversion. True discipleship requires trust in divine providence and the courage to proclaim the Gospel even amid rejection. The apostolic mission continues through every baptized Christian who lives and bears witness to Christ in the world.
Reflection
Do I rely on my own strength or on God’s grace when serving others? The Lord calls me to proclaim His message not with material assurance but with faith, humility, and compassion.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You sent Your apostles to preach repentance and bring healing to all. Strengthen me with Your Spirit to live as Your witness today. Teach me to trust in Your providence, to speak the truth in love, and to bring Your healing presence wherever I go. Amen.