Mark 6:8
And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse:
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Ancient itinerant teachers typically traveled with supplies: bag for food, money for lodging, extra clothing, and provisions. Cynical philosophers were known for similar austere travel, but their motivation was philosophical independence, while Jesus' disciples demonstrated dependence on God and community hospitality. The 'staff' (rhabdon) was standard traveler's aid for walking rough terrain and protection from animals or robbers. Prohibition of 'scrip' (traveler's bag) and provisions meant they must accept hospitality rather than being self-sufficient. Ancient Near Eastern hospitality customs obligated communities to provide for traveling teachers/prophets—the disciples' ministry depended on this cultural practice. Copper coins (chalkon) were low-value currency, not silver or gold—prohibiting even minimal money emphasized total dependence. Early church applied these principles variously: some (Franciscans) took them literally as perpetual poverty vow; others recognized them as situation-specific for that particular mission. The principle endures: gospel ministers should trust God's provision rather than worldly security.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus' command for radical simplicity challenge modern ministry's tendency toward elaborate programs, budgets, and resources?
- In what areas of life or ministry might God be calling you to greater dependence on His provision rather than self-sufficiency?
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Analysis & Commentary
And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse. Jesus' instructions for the disciples' missionary journey emphasize radical dependence on God's provision. 'Commanded them that they should take nothing' (παρήγγειλεν αὐτοῖς ἵνα μηδὲν αἴρωσιν, parēngeilen autois hina mēden airōsin) uses strong imperative—this wasn't suggestion but command. 'Save a staff only' (εἰ μὴ ῥάβδον μόνον, ei mē rhabdon monon) allowed minimal walking aid, but prohibited 'scrip' (πήραν, pēran—traveler's bag for provisions), 'bread' (ἄρτον, arton), and 'money in their purse' (εἰς τὴν ζώνην χαλκόν, eis tēn zōnēn chalkon—literally 'copper in the belt').
Why such austere requirements? To teach faith-dependence on God's provision through hospitality, to demonstrate the gospel's free nature (not commercial enterprise), to ensure urgency (no time for lengthy preparations), and to reveal that God's kingdom advances through divine power, not human resources. This temporary mission preparation differed from later instructions (Luke 22:35-36), showing principles adapt to circumstances. Reformed theology emphasizes God's sufficiency—His servants need divine provision more than material resources. The radical simplicity testified that their message's authority came from God, not impressive presentation or financial backing.