Mark 6:30

¶ And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and told him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught.

And {G2532} the apostles {G652} gathered themselves together {G4863} unto {G4314} Jesus {G2424}, and {G2532} told {G518} him {G846} all things {G3956}, both {G2532} what {G3745} they had done {G4160}, and {G2532} what {G3745} they had taught {G1321}.

Those who had been sent out rejoined Yeshua and reported to him all they had done and taught.

Meanwhile, the apostles gathered around Jesus and brought Him news of all they had done and taught.

And the apostles gather themselves together unto Jesus; and they told him all things, whatsoever they had done, and whatsoever they had taught.

Commentary

Mark 6:30 records a significant moment in the ministry of Jesus and His disciples, marking the conclusion of their first independent mission trip. This verse provides a snapshot of the apostles' return and their crucial debriefing with Jesus.

Context

Prior to this verse, Jesus had sent out the twelve disciples two by two, granting them authority over unclean spirits and specific instructions for their journey (as detailed in Mark 6:8-11). Their mission involved preaching repentance, casting out demons, and healing the sick with oil (Mark 6:12-13). Upon completing their assignment, they gathered back to Jesus, eager to share their experiences. This return is immediately followed by Jesus' invitation for them to rest and the miraculous feeding of the five thousand, highlighting the intense pace of their ministry.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Accountability in Ministry: The apostles’ immediate return to Jesus to report their activities underscores the principle of accountability. They were not operating independently but as representatives of Christ, subject to His authority and guidance. This sets a precedent for all who serve in ministry.
  • The Importance of Debriefing: Telling Jesus "all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught" shows the value of reviewing ministry efforts. This debriefing would have allowed for celebration of successes, discussion of challenges, and further instruction from Jesus, fostering spiritual growth.
  • Partnership with Christ: Despite being given significant authority, the apostles recognized Jesus as the ultimate source and recipient of their report. Their work was an extension of His, and they sought His validation and further direction, embodying the concept of remaining in Christ.
  • Discipleship and Training: This mission trip was a critical part of their practical training. The reporting back process allowed Jesus to assess their understanding and application of His teachings, preparing them for future, greater responsibilities, including the Great Commission.

Linguistic Insights

The term "apostles" comes from the Greek word apostoloi (ἀπόστολοι), meaning "those sent forth" or "envoys." This perfectly describes their role as delegates of Jesus, commissioned to carry out His work. The phrase "told him all things" (Greek: panta hosa epoiēsan kai hosa edidaxan) emphasizes the comprehensiveness of their report, covering both their actions (what they did) and their teachings (what they taught), indicating a full account of their practical ministry and doctrinal message.

Practical Application

Mark 6:30 offers valuable lessons for believers today. It reminds us of the importance of accountability in our spiritual walk and service. Just as the apostles reported to Jesus, we are called to bring our efforts, successes, and struggles to God in prayer, seeking His guidance and wisdom. It also highlights the need for reflection and rest after periods of intense service, as Jesus immediately follows this report with an invitation to "come apart and rest a while" (Mark 6:31). This verse encourages us to continually debrief with the Lord, learning from our experiences and relying on His strength for every endeavor.

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Cross-References

  • Luke 9:10 (7 votes)

    ¶ And the apostles, when they were returned, told him all that they had done. And he took them, and went aside privately into a desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida.

  • Acts 20:18 (3 votes)

    And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,

  • Acts 20:21 (3 votes)

    Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.

  • Matthew 10:2 (3 votes)

    Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James [the son] of Zebedee, and John his brother;

  • Mark 6:7 (2 votes)

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

  • Mark 6:13 (2 votes)

    And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed [them].

  • Luke 10:17 (2 votes)

    ¶ And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.