A Tale of Two Responses: How People Treat Jesus vs. How Jesus Treats People

In the gospel of Mark, chapter 6, verses 1-13, we encounter a profound contrast in how Jesus was treated by His hometown and how Jesus treated His disciples. This set of encounters reveals the dangers of being overly bound by societal norms. While Jesus’ townspeople try to Him back down into His lowly place as a craftsman, Jesus lifts His disciples up, encouraging them to learn, grow, and become all that they can become with Him.

Jesus’ Rejection in Nazareth

Jesus returned to His hometown, Nazareth, where He began teaching in the synagogue. His teachings were met with astonishment. The people marveled at His wisdom and the miraculous works done by His hands. 

Despite their amazement, the townspeople's familiarity with Jesus bred contempt. They took offense at Him, questioning His credentials and background. “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” (Mark 6:3 ESV). This reaction can be attributed to the honor culture of the time, where social rank and status were pivotal. For them, Jesus, a mere carpenter from their community, was stepping beyond His designated place, seeking a status they felt He didn't deserve.

This phenomenon, known as familiarity bias, where close acquaintance leads to underestimating someone’s capabilities, was at play here. The people of Nazareth could not reconcile the Jesus they knew—the carpenter’s son—with the wise and powerful teacher standing before them. As a result, their skepticism and lack of faith hindered the miraculous works He could perform among them. Mark 6:5-6 (ESV) notes, "And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed them. And he marveled because of their unbelief."

Empowering the Disciples

In stark contrast to the rejection Jesus faced in Nazareth, Jesus offered acceptance and encouragement to His followers. The apostles, unlike the townspeople, had no significant social standing or community honor. Peter, Andrew, James, and John were fishermen, Matthew was a tax collector, Thomas was a skeptic, and Simon the Zealot was a political agitator. Yet, Jesus saw beyond their societal roles and recognized their potential.

Jesus empowered His disciples, granting them authority over unclean spirits (Mark 6:7) and trusting them with significant spiritual power. This empowerment was not limited to authority but extended to practical instructions and assurances. He sent them out with minimal provisions, teaching them reliance on God’s providence. Mark 6:8 (ESV) says, “He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts.”

By sending them out in pairs, Jesus ensured they had companionship and support, preparing them for both acceptance and rejection. He instructed them to shake off the dust from their feet as a testimony against those who would not receive them (Mark 6:11). This preparation and empowerment highlight Jesus' faith in His disciples, contrasting sharply with the disbelief He encountered in His hometown.

Lessons in Contrast: Rejection vs. Empowerment

The differing reactions between Jesus’ hometown and His disciples present a powerful contrast. In Nazareth, the townspeople’s rejection stemmed from their inability to see beyond Jesus’ familiar background, leading to skepticism and offense. Their adherence to social hierarchies and honor culture prevented them from acknowledging His true identity and potential.

On the other hand, Jesus’ treatment of His disciples exemplifies acceptance and empowerment. He did not see them through the lens of their social standing but recognized their inherent worth and potential. Unlike the townspeople who would not believe in Jesus, Jesus believed in His apostles. He entrusted them with His mission, providing them with the necessary authority, instructions, and support to succeed.

Jesus Believes in You

Just as Jesus believed in His disciples, He believes in you. This belief is not contingent on your past, social standing, or perceived limitations. Jesus sees beyond these external factors and recognizes your potential to contribute to His mission. Ephesians 4:11-12 (ESV) states, "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ."

This empowerment is a recurring theme in Jesus’ ministry. He equips His followers with various gifts, as mentioned in Romans 12:6-8 (ESV), encouraging them to use these gifts in service to His kingdom. Whether through prophecy, teaching, generosity, or acts of mercy, Jesus calls each of us to contribute uniquely to His mission.

Facing Rejection and Embracing Your Calling

Just as Jesus prepared His disciples for rejection, He prepares us for the challenges we may face. Not everyone will understand or appreciate the gifts and calling God has placed in our lives. Some may judge us, question our abilities, or try to put us in a box. However, our value and calling are not defined by others' perceptions but by Jesus' empowerment and belief in us.

In Galatians 3:26-28 (ESV), we are reminded that in Christ, there is no hierarchy or distinction based on social status. We are all children of God, valued and honored equally. This radical inclusivity and empowerment reflect Jesus' approach to His disciples and His approach to us today.

Embrace the Journey with Jesus

Like the disciples, our journey with Jesus involves moments of triumph and times of struggle. The disciples experienced both victories – such as successful missions – and moments of profound misunderstanding. Yet, through it all, Jesus remained with them, guiding, teaching, and empowering them.

Jesus treats us with the same acceptance and belief. He sees our potential, values our journey, and equips us with the necessary tools and support to fulfill our calling. This journey is not about comparing ourselves to others but recognizing and embracing the unique path Jesus has for each of us.

Like children learning to walk, you will fail at times. You will fall. You will do something ought not or not do something you ought. You will slip up. You will misunderstand. But through it all, know that Jesus loves you more than you can even know. Every time you fall, Jesus is there to lift you up, proclaim forgiveness, give you a hug, and tell you to keep going because He believe sin you and has given you what you need for the work to which He has called you.

The contrasting responses in Mark 6:1-13 highlight the difference between societal norms and Jesus' transformative approach. While Jesus' hometown rejected Him due to familiarity and societal constraints, Jesus empowered His disciples, recognizing their worth and potential. This same empowerment and belief extend to us today, calling us to embrace our unique journey with Jesus, confident in His unwavering support and guidance.

Much grace and peace to you!