Mark 3:15

And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils:

Mark 3:15 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of the passage where Jesus appoints His twelve disciples. In Mark 3:14, Jesus ordained the twelve to be with Him and to be sent out to preach. Then, in verse 15, He grants them specific authority and power for their mission.

The Greek term translated as “power” is exousia, which denotes delegated authority rather than inherent ability. Jesus conferred this authority on His chosen apostles for their future work; they did not possess it on their own, and it was not yet exercised at the moment of appointment.

Meaning

The authority Jesus gave includes power to heal sicknesses and to cast out devils. Healing sicknesses emphasizes the compassionate nature of Jesus’ ministry, which the disciples were to continue. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus demonstrates power over physical ailments, and He intended His disciples to carry on this healing work.

The authority to cast out devils highlights Jesus’ power over spiritual forces of darkness. This was a significant aspect of His ministry, as He frequently liberated individuals from evil spirits. By conferring this authority, Jesus equipped the disciples to engage in spiritual warfare against demonic forces.

This authority is spiritual, not earthly or political. It was given for the purpose of extending Jesus’ ministry, confirming their doctrine, and recommending their message. The disciples’ mission combined proclamation of the kingdom with acts of healing and deliverance.

Biblical connections

Parallel commissions appear in Matthew 10:1 and Luke 9:1, where Jesus gives the Twelve authority over unclean spirits and to heal every disease. Mark 6:13 later shows the disciples exercising this authority, casting out many demons and anointing the sick with oil.

Application

Mark 3:15 shows Jesus’ desire to extend His ministry through His chosen disciples. The power and authority granted to them were not for personal gain or prestige but for advancing God’s kingdom and bringing healing and deliverance to those in need.

This verse also reminds believers today that Jesus has given His followers a similar commission. While we may not have the exact same miraculous powers as the disciples, we are called to continue the work of Christ by sharing His love, healing, and deliverance with others, both physically and spiritually.

Reflection

The authority the disciples received was derived entirely from Jesus. It was not self-generated but was given for a specific purpose. This same principle applies to believers: any spiritual effectiveness we have comes from Christ and is meant to serve His kingdom, not our own reputation.