Enduring Word Bible Commentary: Mark Chapter 3

Jesus: Hated, Adored, and Followed

Healing on the Sabbath (Mark 3:1-6)

• Jesus heals a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath.
• Pharisees watch closely, hoping to accuse Jesus of breaking Sabbath laws.
• Jesus questions if it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.
• Jesus shows anger and grief at the hardness of their hearts.
• After healing, the Pharisees and Herodians plot to destroy Jesus.

Multitudes Follow Jesus (Mark 3:7-12)

• Jesus withdraws with disciples; crowds follow Him from diverse regions.
• Crowds drawn by His miracles, not His message.
• Jesus heals many; unclean spirits acknowledge Him as the Son of God.
• Jesus instructs demons not to reveal His identity.

Choosing the Twelve Disciples (Mark 3:13-19)

• Jesus chooses twelve disciples, whom He wanted.
• Appoints them to be with Him and to be sent to preach.
• Disciples granted power to heal and cast out demons.
• The twelve include Peter, James, John, and Judas Iscariot among others.

Jesus Answers Accusations

Accusation from His Family (Mark 3:20-21)

• Crowds press upon Jesus, leaving no time to eat.
• His family thinks He is out of His mind and attempts to take hold of Him.

Accusation from Religious Leaders (Mark 3:22)

• Scribes from Jerusalem claim Jesus is possessed by Beelzebub.
• They accuse Him of casting out demons by Satan's power.

Jesus Responds to Accusations (Mark 3:23-27)

• Jesus explains that a kingdom divided cannot stand, refuting their claims.
• Uses parable of a strong man’s house to illustrate His power over Satan.

Warning About Blasphemy (Mark 3:28-30)

• Jesus warns against blasphemy of the Holy Spirit, an unforgivable sin.
• Accusation of having an unclean spirit puts leaders in danger of this sin.

True Family of Jesus (Mark 3:31-35)

• Jesus' family seeks Him out.
• Jesus redefines family as those who do God’s will.