Mark 3:13
And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
This occurs after conflict with Pharisees (3:6) and mass ministry (3:7-12). Jesus withdraws to mountain for prayer and selection. Luke records He spent all night in prayer before choosing twelve (Luke 6:12). Apostolic selection required divine guidance. Mountain traditionally Galilean hills overlooking sea. Jesus calls specific individuals out of larger disciple group. Twelve corresponds to twelve tribes establishing new Israel. Apostolic band diverse fishermen tax collector zealot. United not by compatibility but by common calling. Early church recognized apostolic authority foundational for church (Ephesians 2:20). Apostolic succession controversy over whether authority transferable or unique to original twelve plus Paul.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Jesus withdrawing to mountain for apostolic selection teach about importance of prayer in making decisions?
- How does sovereign choosing of whom he would demonstrate doctrine of election in calling believers?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
He goes up into mountain and calls unto him whom he would and they came. He goes up anabainei ascends mountain. Mountains in Scripture places of revelation encounter Sinai Sermon on Mount Transfiguration. Calls proskale tai summons authoritatively. Unto him pros auton to himself for relationship proximity. Whom he would hous ēthelen exercise of sovereign choice. Sovereignty in election choosing. Not volunteers responding but chosen initiated. And they came erchontai they obeyed came to Him. Divine call produces human response. Mountain setting echoes Moses receiving Law. Jesus establishing new covenant people. Reformed theology emphasizes unconditional election God chooses based on His sovereign will not human merit effort decision. Chosen ones respond to call effectual calling. Divine sovereignty and human responsibility compatible not contradictory.