And he called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits.
English Standard Version (ESV)
The verse highlights that Jesus is "beginning" to send them out, implying this is the first time they are officially commissioned, and that their mission is a stepping stone for future, perhaps more challenging, endeavors. It also emphasizes the strategic pairing of disciples not just for mutual support, but to serve as a more complete witness to the truth they were to proclaim.
And he called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Having just experienced rejection in his hometown, Jesus commissions his twelve closest followers for their first independent mission. He sends them out in pairs, not only for mutual support and testimony but also to begin decentralizing his ministry and multiplying its reach. This mission is marked by supernatural authority over demonic forces and specific instructions to rely entirely on God's providence, emphasizing a dependence on Him rather than earthly provisions.
Ever feel like you're facing tough challenges alone? Jesus had a specific strategy for His disciples' first big assignment.
Jesus didn't just send His disciples out randomly; He sent them "two by two." This wasn't accidental.
Reasons for Pairs:
This model highlights that Christian ministry is rarely meant to be a solitary endeavor. We are stronger, more effective, and better supported when we walk alongside fellow believers.
Jesus didn't just send them with a message; He equipped them with supernatural power. What does this 'authority' really mean?
The verse explicitly states Jesus "gave them authority over unclean spirits." This wasn't just a suggestion; it was a divine empowerment.
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Understanding the Authority:
This authority wasn't for personal gain or intimidation but to demonstrate God's victory and bring people into freedom. It's a powerful reminder that followers of Christ are empowered to confront and overcome spiritual opposition.
Understand the original words
dōdeka · Greek Noun
The designated inner circle of disciples chosen by Jesus to be His closest followers, representatives, and apostles. The number signifies the restoration of the twelve tribes of Israel under the New Covenant.
exousia · Greek Noun
The power, right, or jurisdiction to act and command. In this context, it is delegated power from Jesus, enabling the disciples to exert dominion over demonic forces.
akathartos pneuma · Greek Noun phrase
Spiritual entities opposed to God that possess or influence humans. They are characterized by moral impurity and hostility toward God's kingdom.
This mission was a crucial training step for the disciples, preparing them for future ministry by giving them authority and practical experience in confronting spiritual evil, all while relying on God's provision.
c. AD 27-30
Jesus Calls His Twelve Disciples
Jesus selects twelve men from his followers to be his closest companions and apostles. He names them and gives them specific roles in his ministry.
c. AD 28— this verse
Jesus Sends Out the Twelve
Jesus commissions and sends out the twelve disciples in pairs to preach, heal, and cast out demons. This marks their first significant independent ministry.
c. AD 29
John the Baptist is Executed
King Herod Antipas executes John the Baptist, a precursor to Jesus. This event casts a shadow over Jesus' ministry and indicates the growing danger from religious and political authorities.
c. AD 30
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
A large crowd witnesses Jesus perform a miracle of feeding thousands with very little food. This event demonstrates Jesus' power and compassion, drawing even more attention to his ministry.
c. AD 30
Jesus is Transfigured
Jesus reveals his divine glory to three of his closest disciples, Peter, James, and John, in a spectacular vision.
This passage parallels Mark 6:7 by detailing Jesus calling the twelve and giving them authority over diseases and demons, highlighting the dual nature of their mission: healing and spiritual warfare.
Luke 9:1Luke's account aligns with Mark's, emphasizing Jesus giving the twelve power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, reinforcing the core message of their empowered ministry.
Mark 3:14-15This earlier passage in Mark records Jesus appointing the twelve disciples, establishing the foundation for the mission described in Mark 6:7 and showing His intentional selection of those He would empower.
Exodus 4:10-12When Moses felt inadequate to speak, God promised to be with him and teach him what to say, providing a precedent for divine provision and empowerment for those sent on God's mission, similar to the authority given to the twelve.
1 Corinthians 1:18This verse speaks of the message of the cross being the power of God, connecting to the authority given to the disciples to overcome spiritual forces and proclaiming a power that originates from God, not themselves.
pooleMark 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;"
Ver. 7,8. Mark had before told us of the election of the twelve, Mark 3:14 , which neither Matthew nor Luke mention: here he gives us an account of their mission, which is mentioned by both them also. The instructions which he gave them are much the same with what we meet with in Matthew 10:1-42 , and there opened. He would have them, upon their first mission, co…
vincentMark 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;"
By two and twoTo help and encourage each other, and also for fulness of testimony.
The verse highlights that Jesus is "beginning" to send them out, implying this is the first time they are officially commissioned, and that their mission is a stepping stone for future, perhaps more challenging, endeavors. It also emphasizes the strategic pairing of disciples not just for mutual support, but to serve as a more complete witness to the truth they were to proclaim.
Having just experienced rejection in his hometown, Jesus commissions his twelve closest followers for their first independent mission. He sends them out in pairs, not only for mutual support and testimony but also to begin decentralizing his ministry and multiplying its reach. This mission is marked by supernatural authority over demonic forces and specific instructions to rely entirely on God's providence, emphasizing a dependence on Him rather than earthly provisions.
Having just experienced rejection in his hometown, Jesus commissions his twelve closest followers for their first independent mission. He sends them out in pairs, not only for mutual support and testimony but also to begin decentralizing his ministry and multiplying its reach. This mission is marked by supernatural authority over demonic forces and specific instructions to rely entirely on God's providence, emphasizing a dependence on Him rather than earthly provisions.
"And he called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits." — The verse highlights that Jesus is "beginning" to send them out, implying this is the first time they are officially commissioned, and that their mission is a stepping stone for future, perhaps mor…
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Last reviewed October 2026