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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Mark 6:7–13. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is, I. The commission given to the twelve apostles, to preach and work miracles; it is the same which we had more largely, Mt. 10. Mark doth not name them here, as Matthew doth, because he had named them before, when they were first called into fellowship with him, Mar 3:16-19. Hitherto they had been conversant with Christ, and had set at his feet, had heard his doctrine, and seen his miracles; and now he determines to make some use of them; they had received, that they might give, had learned, that they might teach; and therefore now he began to send them forth. They must not always be studying in the academy, to get knowledge, but they must preach in the country, to do good with the knowledge they have got. Though they were not as yet so well accomplished as they were to be, yet, according to their present ability and capacity, they must be set to work, and make further improvements afterward. Now observe here,
1.That Christ sent them forth by two and two; this Mark takes notice of. They went two and two to a place, that out of the mouth of two witnesses every word might be established; and that they might be company for one another when they were among strangers, and might strengthen the hands, and encourage the hearts, one of another; might help one another if any thing should be amiss, and keep one another in countenance. Every common soldier has his comrade; and it is an approved maxim, Two are better than one. Christ would thus teach his ministers to associate, and both lend and borrow help.
2.That he gave them power over unclean spirits. He commissioned them to attack the devil's kingdom, and empowered them, as a specimen of their breaking his interest in the souls of men by their doctrine, to cast him out of the bodies of those that were possessed. Dr. Lightfoot suggests, that they cured diseases, and cast out devils, by the Spirit, but preached that only which they had learned from the mouth of Christ.
3.That he commanded them not to take provisions along with them, neither victuals nor money, that they might appear, wherever they came, to be poor men, men not of this world, and therefore might with the better grace call people off from it to another world. When afterward he bid them take purse and scrip (Luk 22:36), that did not intimate (as Dr. Lightfoot observes) that his care of them was abated from what it had been; but that they should meet with worse times and worse entertainment than they met with at their first mission. In Matthew and Luke they are forbidden to take staves with them, that is, fighting staves; but here in Mark they are bid to take nothing save a staff only, that is, a walking staff, such as pilgrims carried. They must not put on shoes, but sandals only, which were only the soles of shoes tied under their feet, or like pumps, or slippers; they must go in the readiest plainest dress they could, and must not so much as have two coats; for their stay abroad would be short, they must return before winter, and what they wanted, those they preached to would cheerfully accommodate them with.
4.He directed them, whatever city they came to, to make that house their head-quarters, which happened to be their first quarters (Mar 6:10); "There abide, till ye depart from that place. And since ye know ye come on an errand sufficient to make you welcome, have such charity for your friends that first invited you, as to believe they do not think you burthensome."
5.He pronounces a very heavy doom upon those that rejected the gospel they preached (Mar 6:11); "Whosoever shall not receive you, or will not so much as hear you, depart thence (if one will not, another will), and shake off the dust under your feet, for a testimony against them. Let them know that they have had a fair offer of life and happiness made them, witness that dust; but that, since they have refused it, they cannot expect ever to have another; let them take up with their own dust, for so shall their doom be." That dust, like the dust of Egypt (Exo 9:9), shall turn into a plague to them; and their condemnation in the great day, will be more intolerable than that of Sodom: for the angels were sent to Sodom, and were abused there; yet that would not bring on so great a guilt and so great a ruin as the contempt and abuse of the apostles of Christ, who bring with them the offers of gospel grace.
II.The apostles' conduct in pursuance of their commission.
Though they were conscious to themselves of great weakness, and expected no secular advantage by it, yet, in obedience to their Master's order, and in dependence upon his strength, they went out as Abraham, not knowing whither they went. Observe here,
1.The doctrine they preached; They preached that men should repent (Mar 6:12); that they should change their minds, and reform their lives, in consideration of the near approach of the kingdom of the Messiah. Note, The great design of the gospel preachers, and the great tendency of gospel preaching, should be, to bring people to repentance, to a new heart and a new way. They did not amuse people with curious speculations, but told them that they must repent of their sins, and turn to God.
2.The miracles they wrought. The power Christ gave them over unclean spirits, was not ineffectual, nor did they receive it in vain, but used it, for they cast out many devils (Mar 6:13); and they anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them. Some think this oil was used medicinally, according to the custom of the Jews; but I rather think it was used as a sign of miraculous healing, by the appointment of Christ, though not mentioned; and it was afterward used by those elders of the church, to whom by the Spirit was given the gift of healing, Jam 5:14. It is certain here, and therefore probable there, that anointing the sick with oil, is appropriated to that extraordinary power which has long ceased, and therefore that sign must cease with it.
Historical interpretation
Six Centuries of Reception
5 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
(Vict. Ant. e Cat. in Marc.) The Lord also gives them this command, that they might show by their mode of life, how far removed they were from the desire of riches.
(Vict. Ant. e Cat. in Marc.) Or else, Matthew and Luke neither allow shoes nor staff, which is meant to point out the highest perfection. But Mark bids them take a staff and be shod with sandals, which (1 Cor. 7:6) is spoken by permission.
(Vict. Ant. e Cat. in Marc.) Or else, that it might be a witness of the toil of the way, which they sustained for them; or as if the dust of the sins of the preachers was turned against themselves. It goes on, And they went and preached that men should repent. And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them. Mark alone mentions their anointing with oil. James however, in his canonical Epistle, says a thing similar. For oil both refreshes our labours, and gives us light and joy; but again, oil signifies the mercy of the unction of God, the healing of infirmity, and the enlightening of the heart, the whole of which is worked by prayer.
(Hom. in Evan. 17) Further, the Lord sent the disciples to preach, two and two, because there are two precepts of charity, namely, the love of God, and of our neighbour; and charity cannot be between less than two; by this therefore He implies to us, that he who has not charity towards his neighbour, ought in no way to take upon himself the office of preaching. There follows, And he commanded them, that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse: but be shod with sandals; and not put on two coats.
(in Marc. 2, 24) Now our kind and merciful Lord and Master did not grudge His servants and their disciples His own virtues, and as He Him self had healed every sickness and every infirmity, so also He gave the same power to His disciples. Wherefore it goes on: And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits. Great is the difference between giving and receiving. Whatsoever He does, is done in His own power, as Lord; if they do any thing, they confess their own weakness and the power of the Lord, saying in the name of Jesus, Arise, and walk.
(ubi sup.) For such should be the preacher's trust in God, that, though he takes no thought for supplying his own wants in this present world, yet he should feel most certain that these will not be left unsatisfied, lest whilst his mind is taken up with temporal things, he should provide less of eternal things to others.
(ubi sup.) Again, by the two tunics He seems to me to mean two sets of clothes; not that in places like Scythia, covered with the ice and snow, a man should be content with only one garment, but by coat, I think a suit of clothing is implied, that being clad with one, we should not keep another through anxiety as to what may happen.
(ubi sup.) Again, allegorically; under the figure of a scrip is pointed out the burdens of this world, by bread is meant temporal delights, by money in the purse, the hiding of wisdom; because he who receives the office of a doctor, should neither be weighed down by the burden of worldly affairs, nor be made soft by carnal desires, nor hide the talent of the word committed to him under the ease of an inactive body. It goes on, And he said unto them, In what place soever ye enter into an house, there abide till ye depart from that place. Where He gives a general precept of constancy, that they should look to what is due to the tie of hospitality, adding, that it is inconsistent with the preaching of the kingdom of heaven to run about from house to house.
(ubi sup.) Wherefore it is evident from the Apostles themselves, that it is an ancient custom of the holy Church that persons possessed or afflicted with any disease whatever, should be anointed with oil consecrated by priestly blessing.
And he said to them: Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave from there. In Matthew it is written thus: Whatever town or village you enter, inquire who in it is worthy, and stay there until you leave (Matthew 10). He gives a general command of constancy, that they should observe the laws of hospitality, asserting that it is unbecoming for the preacher of the kingdom of heaven to rush from house to house and lose the rights of an inviolate hospitality. Nor is it idle according to Matthew that the house into which the apostles should enter is to be chosen, so that the reason for changing hospitality and violating the bond of hospitality does not stand.
The Lord not only preached in the cities, but also in villages, that we may learn not to despise little things, nor always to seek for great cities, but to sow the word of the Lord, in abandoned and lowly villages. Wherefore it is said, And he went round about the villages, teaching.
Again He sends the Apostles two and two that they, might become more active; for, as says the Preacher, Two are better than one. (Eccl. 4:9) But if He had sent more than two, there would not have been a sufficient number to allow of their being sent to many villages.
Instructing them also by this means not to be fond of receiving gifts, in order too that those, who saw them proclaim poverty, might be reconciled to it, when they saw that the Apostles themselves possessed nothing.
That is, lest they should be accused of gluttony in passing from one to another. It goes on, And whoever shall not receive you, &c. This the Lord commanded them, that they might show that they had walked a long way for their sakes, and to no purpose. Or, because they received nothing from them, not even dust, which they shake off, that it might be a testimony against them, that is, by way of convicting themv.
It also means, the grace of the Holy Ghost, by which we are eased from our labours, and receive light and spiritual joy.
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Summary
Mark 6:10 provides a crucial practical instruction from Jesus to His twelve disciples as He commissions them for their first missionary journey. This directive emphasizes a radical dependence on divine provision and a disciplined approach to hospitality, instructing them to remain in the first welcoming home they encounter within a town until their departure from that location. This command was designed to foster humility, contentment, and an unwavering focus on their spiritual mission, preventing distractions and ensuring their credibility as messengers of the Kingdom of God.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is embedded within Jesus' detailed instructions to the twelve apostles whom He "sent them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits" (Mark 6:7). Prior to this specific command about lodging, Jesus had already given strict directives regarding their provisions, instructing them to "take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts" (Mark 6:8). This radical lack of material provision underscored their complete reliance on God's care and the hospitality of those they ministered to. The instruction in Mark 6:10 directly follows these provisions, addressing the practicalities of their stay in any given town, ensuring their conduct aligned with their mission of proclaiming repentance and healing (Mark 6:12-13).
Historical & Cultural Context
In first-century Galilee, hospitality was a deeply ingrained cultural norm and a moral obligation. Travelers, especially religious teachers or those on a mission, often relied on the generosity of local inhabitants for food and lodging. However, there was also a risk of exploitation or appearing to seek personal gain. Jesus' instructions directly addressed these cultural dynamics. By commanding the disciples to stay in one house, He prevented them from "shopping around" for better accommodations, which would have been perceived as disrespectful, ungrateful, or even opportunistic. This directive also protected the disciples from being seen as a burden on multiple households and ensured their message was not undermined by perceived fickleness or a lack of contentment. The practice of traveling in pairs was also common for safety and mutual support.
Key Themes
The instructions in Mark 6 contribute significantly to several key themes within Mark's Gospel. One prominent theme is Radical Dependence on God, as seen in the command to take nothing but a staff, forcing the disciples to trust entirely in divine provision and the hospitality of others. Another is The Nature of Discipleship, which involves humility, self-denial, and a singular focus on the mission of proclaiming the Kingdom. The directive to "abide" in one house reinforces Contentment and Integrity, preventing the disciples from being swayed by material comforts or appearing to be mercenary. This also highlights the theme of Urgency and Focus on the Mission, as time spent seeking better lodging would detract from their primary task of preaching repentance and healing the sick, as outlined in Mark 6:12-13. The emphasis on accepting hospitality without complaint also subtly teaches Respect for Hosts and the importance of maintaining a good witness.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
(eis) and G2064 (erchomai), meaning "to come into" or "to go in." This word signifies the act of physically entering a dwelling. In the context of the mission, it implies the disciples' initial reception into a home, marking the beginning of their stay in a particular locality. It suggests a deliberate and purposeful entry, not merely passing through.
(oikos), referring to a "residence" or "abode," and by implication, a "household" or "family." This term denotes not just the physical structure but also the family unit residing within it. Jesus' instruction concerns the hospitality offered by a household, emphasizing the personal relationship and provision from the family that receives them.
A primary verb meaning "to stay," "remain," or "dwell." This word implies a settled and continuous presence, not a temporary stopover or a brief visit. It conveys the expectation that once a suitable place is found, the disciples are to settle there for the duration of their stay in that town, reinforcing the themes of contentment, commitment to their hosts, and stability in their mission.
Verse Breakdown
"And he said unto them,"
This opening clause establishes Jesus as the speaker and the twelve disciples as the direct recipients of this authoritative instruction. It underscores the divine origin and binding nature of the command.
"In what place soever ye enter into a house,"
This phrase sets the condition for the subsequent command. It acknowledges that the disciples will be seeking lodging and that they will find a house that offers them hospitality. The indefinite "what place soever" (hópou eán) indicates that the instruction applies universally to any town or village they enter, highlighting the consistent principle they are to follow regardless of the specific location.
"there abide"
This is the core imperative of the verse. Once a house welcomes them, the disciples are commanded to "remain" or "stay" there. This prohibits them from moving to another dwelling, whether for perceived better comfort, more generous provisions, or to spread the burden of hospitality. It emphasizes contentment with the initial provision and a focus on their mission rather than their personal convenience.
"till ye depart from that place."
This clause specifies the duration of their stay. They are to remain in the initial house until they are ready to leave the entire town or village. This reinforces the idea of a settled and committed presence, avoiding any impression of being fickle, ungrateful, or constantly seeking an upgrade. It ties their lodging directly to their mission's completion in that specific locality.
Literary Devices
Mark 6:10 employs several literary devices to convey Jesus' instruction effectively. The most prominent is Direct Discourse, as Jesus' words are quoted verbatim, lending immediate authority and clarity to the command. The use of the Imperative Mood in "abide" (ménō) emphasizes the non-negotiable nature of the instruction, conveying a direct command rather than a suggestion. There is also an element of Synecdoche where "house" (oikía) stands not just for the physical dwelling but for the entire "household" or family that offers hospitality, highlighting the personal and relational aspect of their stay. Furthermore, the instruction functions as a Paradoxical Command in light of typical human desires for comfort and improvement, challenging the disciples to embrace humility and dependence over worldly preferences.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Mark 6:10 is a profound theological statement on the nature of ministry and discipleship, underscoring the principles of radical dependence on God, contentment, and unwavering focus on the mission. Jesus' instruction to "abide" in one house teaches His disciples, and by extension all believers, that true spiritual work is not about seeking personal comfort or advantage, but about humbly receiving provision and dedicating oneself fully to the task at hand. This command fostered integrity and prevented the disciples from being perceived as opportunistic, thereby preserving the purity of their message. It highlights that God's provision, however humble, is sufficient, and that His servants are called to trust Him completely rather than relying on their own efforts to secure better circumstances. This principle extends beyond missionary journeys to all aspects of the Christian life, encouraging believers to find peace and purpose in their current circumstances while faithfully serving God.
Reflection and Application
Mark 6:10 offers timeless wisdom for contemporary believers, challenging us to re-evaluate our priorities in service and daily living. In a world that constantly encourages seeking "better" or "more," Jesus' command to "abide" in the first welcoming house speaks powerfully to the virtues of contentment, humility, and gratitude. It calls us to resist the temptation to constantly upgrade our circumstances, whether in ministry, work, or personal life, and instead to embrace the provision God has given with a spirit of thankfulness. This principle encourages us to focus our energy on our divine calling and relationships, rather than being sidetracked by the pursuit of material comforts or social climbing. It reminds us that our credibility as Christ's followers is often built on our willingness to be content and to serve faithfully where we are, demonstrating trust in God's provision and a single-minded devotion to His purposes.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did Jesus instruct His disciples to stay in one house and not move around?
Jesus' instruction for the disciples to "abide" in the first house that welcomed them (Mark 6:10) served several crucial purposes. Firstly, it fostered radical dependence on God's provision and the generosity of others, preventing the disciples from relying on their own resources or seeking out more luxurious accommodations. Secondly, it promoted contentment and humility, teaching them to be satisfied with what was offered and to avoid the appearance of being choosy or ungrateful. Thirdly, it ensured their focus remained on the mission of proclaiming the Kingdom and healing, rather than being distracted by the search for better lodging. Finally, it maintained their credibility and integrity as messengers of Christ, preventing them from being perceived as opportunists or a burden on multiple households. This command was a practical outworking of their call to self-denial and single-minded devotion.
Does this instruction apply to believers today, especially those involved in ministry or missions?
While the specific cultural context of first-century travel and hospitality has changed, the underlying principles of Jesus' instruction in Mark 6:10 remain highly relevant for believers today, particularly for those engaged in ministry or missions. The core message emphasizes contentment, humility, and a singular focus on God's mission. For modern missionaries, this might translate to being grateful for the housing provided by the sending organization or local church, rather than constantly seeking personal upgrades. For all believers, it encourages a spirit of stewardship and gratitude for the resources God provides, resisting the consumeristic urge to always seek more or better. It also reminds us that our witness is strengthened when we demonstrate trust in God's provision and avoid behaviors that might suggest we are serving for personal gain or comfort, aligning with the Apostle Paul's teaching on being content in all circumstances (Philippians 4:11-13).
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Mark 6:10, though a practical instruction for the disciples' mission, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ Himself. Jesus, the ultimate missionary, perfectly embodied the principles He commanded His disciples to follow. He did not seek earthly comforts or a permanent dwelling, famously stating, "Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head" (Matthew 8:20). He "abided" among humanity, condescending to dwell with us in humility, not seeking a better place but fully embracing His mission to redeem fallen humanity (John 1:14). Just as the disciples were to accept the hospitality offered, Christ fully accepted the human condition, entering into our "house" of sin and brokenness to bring healing and salvation. His entire life was a testament to radical dependence on the Father and an unwavering focus on His divine mission, culminating in His ultimate act of self-giving on the cross. Therefore, the disciples' "abiding" in one house foreshadows Christ's own humble dwelling among us and His steadfast commitment to His redemptive work, which He completed for our sake, never deviating from the Father's will until He could "depart from that place" of earthly ministry, having accomplished all (John 19:30).