What does Luke 6:13 mean?

Explanation

Luke 6:13 describes an important event in the ministry of Jesus Christ.

After a night spent in prayer, Jesus selects twelve individuals from among his larger group of disciples.

These men are given a special designation as "apostles," which signifies that they are being sent out with authority and a specific mission.

The act of choosing the twelve is significant as it establishes a close circle of followers who will be instrumental in spreading Jesus's teachings and continuing his work after his departure.

The choice of twelve may also symbolize the twelve tribes of Israel, indicating that Jesus's ministry is in continuity with the history and promises of the Jewish people.

By naming these individuals apostles, Jesus imparts to them not just a title, but a role that carries with it the weight of leadership, responsibility, and service.

Historical Context

This verse is narrated in the Gospel of Luke, commonly dated to around 80-110 AD.

Luke's Gospel was written to a largely Gentile audience and aimed to provide an orderly account of the life and teachings of Jesus.

The event takes place in a period where Jesus was actively engaged in his public ministry, traveling and teaching in various towns and villages.

At the time, Jewish society was organized around religious, tribal, and familial affiliations. The selection of twelve apostles echoes the structure of the twelve tribes of Israel, reinforcing the idea that Jesus's ministry is a fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies and covenants.

Theological Insights

The selection of the twelve apostles carries significant theological implications:

• Apostolic Authority: The apostles are seen as the foundations of the Church, endowed with authority from Christ himself.
• Continuity with Israel: The number twelve corresponds to the twelve tribes of Israel, suggesting God's enduring commitment to His chosen people.
• Mission and Service: The apostles are not just followers but are sent on a mission, indicating active participation in God's redemptive plan.

Different Christian traditions may emphasize various aspects of apostolicity. Roman Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians often underscore apostolic succession, while Protestants may focus on the teachings and witness of the apostles as recorded in the New Testament.

Practical Applications

The calling of the apostles can provide contemporary believers with insights into their own spiritual lives:

• Discernment: The importance of prayerful consideration in making significant decisions.
• Service: Following the example of the apostles, Christians are invited to actively engage in spreading the faith and serving others.
• Community: The establishment of the apostles highlights the importance of community and fellowship in the Christian life.

Cross-References

• Matthew 10:1-4: Records the naming of the twelve apostles and gives a list which is mostly consistent with Luke's account.
• Mark 3:13-19: Mark’s version of the calling of the twelve.
• Acts 1:15-26: Describes the replacement of Judas Iscariot with Matthias, emphasizing the ongoing importance of the twelve apostolic witnesses.

Language Study

The term "apostle" (Greek: ἀπόστολος, apostolos) means "one who is sent out" and is derived from the verb "to send" (ἀποστέλλω, apostellō).

The term implies being sent with a commission and the authority of the sender.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various other religious traditions, groups of twelve significant figures are common.

For example, in Norse mythology, there are twelve Aesir gods.

In Buddhism, the Twelve Nidanas explain the cycle of existence.

The selection of twelve in Christianity might be seen to reflect a pattern that resonates with human organization and mythology.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives might not directly relate to the selection of the twelve apostles but could explore psychological and sociological dimensions of group dynamics and leadership.

Studies show that individuals selected as leaders can significantly impact group cohesion, shared values, and the effectiveness of their mission.

Commentaries

Commentaries provide various insights into Luke 6:13:

• Henry's Commentary suggests that the choice of the twelve was directed by the Holy Spirit and reflects the sovereign will of Christ in establishing the early church.
• The Expositor's Greek Testament highlights the importance of the apostolic office and the unique role of the twelve as foundational witnesses to the life and resurrection of Jesus.
• The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges focuses on the personal relationship and training Jesus provided to the apostles during his ministry.