The Twelve Are Sent with Authority

Jesus sends the Twelve out two by two with authority over unclean spirits. They travel lightly, depend on hospitality, preach repentance, cast out demons, and anoint sick people with oil. Their mission extends Jesus’ own proclamation and works while keeping their authority derived from him.

Where this fits in the story: the Twelve were appointed in chapter 3 to be with Jesus and to be sent. Now the sending begins. Their dependence on hospitality also makes the mission visible and vulnerable rather than self-protective.

Where Scripture takes it next: Mark interrupts the mission report with the story of John the Baptist’s death. That placement warns disciples that faithful witness may lead not only to success but to rejection and suffering.