He appointed the twelve: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter); James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder); Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. Mark 3:16-19
I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark. Today, I focus on a commentary-assisted review of Mark 3:13-19, which is the text for the second division (of three) per the commentary. Excerpts from the commentary's second division:
- "This group of men came from a variety of different backgrounds. They had different passions, interests, and agendas. But the thing they have in common was that Jesus called them out, committed Himself to invest in them, and used them to change the world. Likewise, we must call out those we wish to invest in as we continue to make disciples of Jesus today."
- "The Bible is brutally honest. It notes successes and failures. It has integrity in its reporting. One example of the ugliness of fallen humanity is Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed Jesus. In every list of the apostles he is listed last. In every list his betrayal is noted."
- "Judas was chosen by our Lord to be with Him (3:14). He did not worm his way in, and he would serve well for a while. He gave evidence of loyalty. He even served as treasurer (John 12:4-6), though he was dishonest in his assignment. All of this is to remind us that if you live long enough and serve long enough you will be disappointed by people whom you love and who you thought loved you."
We should of course recognize that all of the apostles were ordinary, broken, and sinful people - all humans are. Jesus uses the fallibility and weakness of humanity to demonstrate His power (see 2 Corinthians 12:10) - it must be clear that His will is always done and it is His will and power. The appointment of Judas highlights how Jesus uses the brokenness and sin of others as part of His will - this of course works in both ways where God hardens and softens hearts as part of His design and will. See Romans 9:18. We must also recognize that all churches are imperfect and as such sin exists inside the church - however, we should let this distract us from the mission of the gospel and scripture provides guidance about how to deal with sin inside the church.
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion for me - thank You Father God! I am not deserving of the grace and mercy You pour out for me. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
