What would it have been like to be in the background of the newly formed disciples’ group? What in fighting could have happened and what long disagreements could have taken place about the Roman Empire, or who would be elevated to leadership in the group? But as they grew in awe of Jesus, they slowly learned He was no ordinary teacher. Could the same be said of us? I know I’m a slow learner, and I haven’t always had a teachable spirit. I’ve thought many times I had it all together but God has shown me otherwise.
“The gospel writer clearly stated Jesus’s intention for these twelve: “to be with him and to be sent out” (Mark 3:14). They were to live in relationship with him, learning from him the ways of the kingdom. They were also sent out to share what they had learned. They were to proclaim the good news of the kingdom as he did. In addition, they were given the authority to cast out demons as evidence that the kingdom was here, now, in their midst. Their words about the kingdom were backed up by their ability to heal.”
“The dynamics within the group would have been challenging. Peter was a strong-willed person who often spoke for the group. James and John were apparently hotheads who were quick to get angry. Matthew had worked for the Romans, collecting taxes, while Simon the Cananaean was a member of a group that sought to ambush and kill Roman soldiers.” - Excerpt, Following Jesus: Discipleship in the Gospel of Mark by Steve Langford
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