Mark 3:13

KJV

¶ And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth [unto him] whom he would: and they came unto him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} he goeth up {G305} into {G1519} a mountain {G3735}, and {G2532} calleth {G4341} unto him whom {G3739} he {G846} would {G2309}: and {G2532} they came {G565} unto {G4314} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then he went up into the hill country and summoned to himself those he wanted, and they came to him.

Berean Standard Bible

Then Jesus went up on the mountain and called for those He wanted, and they came to Him.

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Mark 3:13 records a pivotal moment in Jesus' public ministry where, following a period of intense activity and escalating opposition, He ascends a mountain to deliberately and sovereignly select a core group of individuals. This act of calling those "whom he would" underscores His divine authority and intentionality in establishing the foundational leadership for His burgeoning kingdom movement, setting the stage for the formal commissioning of the Twelve Apostles.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows a series of intense interactions between Jesus and various groups, particularly the religious authorities. [Mark 2:1-3:6](/mark/2-1-3-6 "Mark 2:1-3:6 - Jesus' Early Ministry and Conflicts") details His healing of a paralytic, eating with tax collectors and sinners, debates over fasting, healing on the Sabbath, and finally, the Pharisees and Herodians conspiring to destroy Him. The crowds, meanwhile, are growing, pressing in on Him from all directions ([Mark 3:7-12](/mark/3-7-12 "Mark 3:7-12 - Jesus Withdraws and Heals Many")). In response to this escalating popularity and opposition, Jesus withdraws from the bustling crowds and conflict, seeking a more secluded and strategic location. His ascent "into a mountain" ([Mark 3:13](/mark/3-13 "Mark 3:13 - Jesus Calls His Disciples")) is not a casual stroll but a deliberate, strategic, and profoundly significant movement, signaling a shift from broad public ministry to the focused training of an inner circle. This act sets the immediate stage for the formal appointment and commissioning of the Twelve Apostles in the very next verses ([Mark 3:14-19](/mark/3-14-19 "Mark 3:14-19 - The Appointment of the Twelve")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern and Jewish traditions, mountains often served as places of divine encounter, revelation, and significant decision-making. Moses received the Law on Mount Sinai ([Exodus 19:3](/exodus/19-3 "Exodus 19:3 - Moses Ascends Mount Sinai")), Elijah encountered God on Mount Horeb ([1 Kings 19:8-18](/1_kings/19-8-18 "1 Kings 19:8-18 - Elijah's Encounter on Mount Horeb")), and Jesus Himself would later deliver His most famous sermon on a mountain ([Matthew 5:1-7:29](/matthew/5-7 "Matthew 5-7 - The Sermon on the Mount")). This setting, therefore, imbues Jesus' action with profound theological weight, suggesting a moment of divine deliberation and revelation. Furthermore, the concept of a "rabbi" calling "disciples" (talmidim) was common in first-century Judaism. However, unlike typical rabbinic schools where students chose their teacher, Jesus' method was revolutionary: He chose His disciples, emphasizing His unique authority and the divine initiative in their calling. This act of selection was not based on social status, wealth, or prior religious training, but solely on Jesus' sovereign will, a radical departure from conventional societal norms.
* **Key Themes:** Mark 3:13 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the Gospel of Mark. First, it powerfully highlights the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Choice**. The phrase "calleth unto him whom he would" emphasizes Jesus' absolute authority and deliberate selection, showcasing that His disciples were chosen by Him, not vice versa. This concept resonates with later teachings where Jesus explicitly states, "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you" ([John 15:16](/john/15-16 "John 15:16 - Jesus Chooses His Disciples")). Second, the verse introduces the theme of **Intentional Discipleship and Calling**. Jesus calls these individuals not merely to be followers, but to be "with him" and to be "sent forth" for specific ministry ([Mark 3:14-15](/mark/3-14-15 "Mark 3:14-15 - Purpose of the Disciples' Calling")). This foundational calling underscores the purposeful nature of Christian discipleship, which involves both intimate fellowship with Christ and active participation in His mission. Finally, the "mountain" setting reinforces the theme of **Preparation for Ministry and Prayer**. Luke's Gospel explicitly notes that Jesus spent the entire night in prayer on a mountain before choosing the Twelve ([Luke 6:12-13](/luke/6-12-13 "Luke 6:12-13 - Jesus Prays Before Choosing Apostles")), underscoring the spiritual intensity and divine guidance behind this crucial decision.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **goeth up (Greek, _anabaínō'_):** This verb, G305, means "to go up, ascend, climb up, arise." Its use here is not merely descriptive of physical movement but carries theological weight. Jesus' ascent to the mountain signifies a deliberate, purposeful act of withdrawal from the chaos below, often symbolizing a transition to a place of divine encounter, revelation, or significant decision-making. It highlights a purposeful elevation, both physically and spiritually, before a crucial act of selection.
* **calleth (Greek, _proskaléomai'_):** G4341, meaning "to call toward oneself, summon, invite." This is a middle voice verb, indicating that Jesus is calling them *to Himself* for His own purposes. It is not a casual invitation but a authoritative summons, emphasizing His initiative and sovereign right to select. The calling is personal, direct, and carries the weight of a divine summons for a specific purpose.
* **would (Greek, _thélō'_):** G2309, meaning "to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse), i.e., choose or prefer; to wish, be inclined to." This word powerfully emphasizes Jesus' sovereign will and deliberate choice. His selection was not influenced by human merit, social standing, or popular opinion, but was entirely based on His divine purpose and wisdom. It underscores the active and intentional nature of His choosing, highlighting His autonomy and foresight in selecting those who would become His apostles.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ And he goeth up into a mountain":** This initial clause sets the scene for a moment of profound significance. The "mountain" is a symbolic location, often associated with divine revelation and the establishment of covenants in biblical narratives (e.g., Mount Sinai, Mount Carmel). Jesus' deliberate ascent signifies a withdrawal from the pressing crowds and the escalating opposition, indicating a strategic and purposeful act of separation. It suggests a move from the public arena to a more secluded space for a weighty decision, possibly involving prayer and communion with the Father, as Luke's parallel account suggests ([Luke 6:12](/luke/6-12 "Luke 6:12 - Jesus Prays Before Choosing Disciples")).
* **"and calleth [unto him] whom he would":** This is the heart of the verse, emphasizing Jesus' divine initiative and sovereign authority. The verb "calleth" (proskaléomai) denotes a deliberate summons, not a casual invitation. The phrase "whom he would" (hous ēthelen) is crucial, highlighting that the selection was entirely based on Jesus' own will and purpose, not on any perceived merit or desire of the individuals themselves. This underscores the elective nature of discipleship, where God initiates the call according to His perfect plan, choosing those He intends to use for His specific purposes.
* **"and they came unto him.":** This final clause describes the response of those called. Their immediate obedience and willingness to "come unto him" demonstrate their recognition of Jesus' authority and their readiness to respond to His summons. It signifies the initial act of commitment and submission to His call, marking the beginning of their formal training and preparation for ministry. This response is essential, as the divine call requires a human answer of obedience.

#### Literary Devices
Mark 3:13 employs several significant literary devices. **Symbolism** is prominent in the setting: the "mountain" (óros) is a recurring biblical motif representing a place of divine encounter, revelation, and the establishment of new covenants or leadership structures. By ascending a mountain, Jesus implicitly aligns His actions with momentous divine acts of the past, imbuing His selection of disciples with profound theological weight. The phrase "calleth unto him whom he would" highlights **Divine Initiative** and **Sovereignty**, emphasizing that the choice originates entirely with Jesus, not with the individuals. This underscores His unique authority and purpose. Furthermore, the scene serves as **Foreshadowing**, setting the stage for the formal appointment of the Twelve Apostles in the subsequent verses ([Mark 3:14-19](/mark/3-14-19 "Mark 3:14-19 - The Appointment of the Twelve")), who will be commissioned to extend His ministry. The concise narrative style of Mark also contributes to the sense of immediate action and divine purpose, characteristic of his Gospel.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Mark 3:13 is deeply theological, revealing fundamental truths about God's election and the nature of discipleship. It underscores the profound truth that salvation and service originate with God's sovereign choice, not human merit or initiative. Jesus' act of calling "whom he would" demonstrates His divine prerogative as the Son of God, who possesses the authority to choose and commission His agents for the establishment of His kingdom. This divine initiative is foundational to Christian theology, reminding believers that their relationship with Christ is rooted in His prior love and selection. The passage also highlights the intentionality of God's plan, as Jesus meticulously selects those who will carry His message forward, emphasizing the importance of divine calling in ministry.

* [John 15:16](/john/15-16 "John 15:16 - Jesus' Sovereign Choice of Disciples")
* [Ephesians 1:4](/ephesians/1-4 "Ephesians 1:4 - Chosen in Christ Before the Foundation of the World")
* [Romans 8:29-30](/romans/8-29-30 "Romans 8:29-30 - God's Foreknowledge and Predestination")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Mark 3:13 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, reminding us that our walk with Christ and our call to service are fundamentally rooted in His divine initiative. Just as Jesus sovereignly chose His disciples, so too does God initiate our relationship with Him, drawing us by His grace and calling us to His purposes. This should humble us, fostering a deep sense of gratitude that we are chosen, not merely choosing. Our response, like that of the first disciples, should be one of immediate and willing obedience: "they came unto him." This verse also underscores the importance of intentionality in spiritual leadership and ministry, mirroring Jesus' deliberate selection and preparation of His core team. It challenges us to consider how we are responding to God's unique call on our lives, whether it's to intimate fellowship, specific service, or a deeper commitment to His kingdom work. Finally, Jesus' ascent to the mountain before this crucial decision serves as a powerful model for us, emphasizing the vital role of withdrawal, prayer, and seeking divine guidance before undertaking significant steps or making weighty decisions in our lives and ministries.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the understanding that Jesus "calleth whom he would" impact your view of your own calling or relationship with God?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to intentionally "go up into a mountain" – to withdraw for prayer and discernment before making significant decisions?**
* **What does "coming unto him" look like in your daily life, and how can you cultivate a more immediate and obedient response to God's leading?**

### FAQ
**Why did Jesus go up into a mountain to call His disciples, and what is the significance of this location?**

Answer: Jesus' ascent "into a mountain" (G3735, _óros_) before calling His disciples is highly significant, drawing on rich biblical symbolism. Mountains in Scripture are often depicted as places of divine encounter, revelation, and the establishment of covenants or new leadership structures. For example, Moses received the Law on Mount Sinai ([Exodus 19:3](/exodus/19-3 "Exodus 19:3 - Moses Ascends Mount Sinai")), and Elijah encountered God on Mount Horeb ([1 Kings 19:8-18](/1_kings/19-8-18 "1 Kings 19:8-18 - Elijah's Encounter on Mount Horeb")). By choosing a mountain, Jesus signifies that this is a moment of profound spiritual importance and divine authority. It represents a deliberate withdrawal from the chaotic crowds and escalating opposition below, providing a secluded space for Him to commune with His Father and make a crucial decision regarding the foundation of His earthly ministry. Luke's Gospel explicitly states that Jesus spent the entire night in prayer on a mountain before making this selection ([Luke 6:12-13](/luke/6-12-13 "Luke 6:12-13 - Jesus Prays Before Choosing Apostles")), further emphasizing the spiritual weight and divine guidance behind His choice of the Twelve.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Mark 3:13, while seemingly a simple narrative of selection, powerfully foreshadows and embodies the Christ-centered nature of God's redemptive plan. Jesus' sovereign act of calling "whom he would" is a microcosm of His ultimate work of salvation. Just as He deliberately chose His disciples for a specific mission, so too does He, as the Lamb of God, sovereignly choose and call humanity to Himself, not based on our merit but on His divine will and purpose ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). This act of selection on the mountain prefigures the establishment of His new covenant community, the Church, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:19-20](/ephesians/2-19-20 "Ephesians 2:19-20 - The Church as God's Household")). The disciples' response, "they came unto him," mirrors the call to all believers to come to Christ for rest and life ([Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). Ultimately, this passage highlights Jesus as the supreme authority, the one who initiates, calls, and equips His chosen ones for the continuation of His kingdom work, culminating in the Great Commission where He sends His disciples to make more disciples of all nations ([Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 6:12

¶ And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.

Luke 6:16

And Judas [the brother] of James, and Judas Iscariot, which also was the traitor.

Luke 9:1

¶ Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.

Matthew 10:1

¶ And when he had called unto [him] his twelve disciples, he gave them power [against] unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.

Matthew 10:4

Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him.

Mark 6:7

¶ And he called [unto him] the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits;

Matthew 5:1

¶ And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: