Mark 6:3

Isn't this the carpenter, the son of Mary and the brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? Aren't His sisters here with us as well?" And they took offense at Him.

Study Bible

Is this not the carpenter
The Greek word for "carpenter" is "τέκτων" (tektōn), which traditionally refers to a craftsman or builder, not limited to woodworking but potentially including stonework or other forms of construction. This term highlights Jesus' humble beginnings and His connection to ordinary, working-class people. In a historical context, carpenters were essential to society, providing necessary skills for building and repairing. This phrase emphasizes the humanity of Jesus, who, despite His divine nature, lived a life of labor and simplicity, aligning with the conservative Christian view that God values humility and hard work.

the son of Mary
Referring to Jesus as "the son of Mary" is significant, as it was customary to identify a man by his father's name. This could imply Joseph's absence, possibly due to his death, or it could emphasize Jesus' miraculous birth, as Mary was His mother through the Holy Spirit. This phrase also highlights Mary's role in Jesus' life, underscoring her faith and obedience to God's will. In a conservative Christian perspective, this affirms the importance of family and the fulfillment of God's promises through the lineage of David.

and the brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon
This phrase introduces Jesus' siblings, indicating that Mary and Joseph had other children after Jesus. The mention of His brothers by name suggests their known presence in the community. James, in particular, becomes a significant figure in the early church, leading the Jerusalem council. This familial context underscores Jesus' full integration into human family life, reinforcing His relatability and the importance of family bonds in Christian teaching.

Are His sisters not here with us as well?
The mention of Jesus' sisters further emphasizes His familial ties and the normalcy of His upbringing. The presence of His sisters in the community suggests that Jesus' family was well-known and integrated into the local society. This detail highlights the ordinariness of Jesus' earthly life, which contrasts with His extraordinary divine mission. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, this underscores the belief that God often works through ordinary means and people to accomplish His divine purposes.

And they took offense at Him
The Greek word for "offense" is "σκανδαλίζω" (skandalizō), meaning to stumble or be scandalized. The townspeople's reaction reflects their inability to reconcile Jesus' humble origins with His authoritative teaching and miraculous works. This phrase illustrates the common human tendency to judge based on appearances and preconceived notions. In a conservative Christian context, this serves as a caution against allowing familiarity or prejudice to blind one to the truth and work of God, encouraging believers to remain open to God's unexpected ways.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
Referred to as "the carpenter," highlighting His humble beginnings and human occupation before His public ministry.

2. Mary
Jesus' mother, emphasizing His human lineage and connection to His earthly family.

3. James, Joses, Judas, and Simon
Jesus' brothers, indicating His familial ties and the skepticism of those who knew Him personally.

4. Sisters
Mentioned to show Jesus' extended family, reinforcing His humanity.

5. Nazareth
The hometown of Jesus, where familiarity bred contempt and disbelief among the people.

Teaching Points

The Humility of Christ
Jesus' identity as a carpenter reminds us of His humility and willingness to live an ordinary life. We are called to embrace humility in our own lives.

Familiarity Breeds Contempt
The people of Nazareth could not see beyond Jesus' human family and occupation. We must guard against allowing familiarity to blind us to God's work in those around us.

The Challenge of Unbelief
Even Jesus faced skepticism and rejection. As His followers, we should be prepared for similar challenges and respond with grace and perseverance.

Family Dynamics in Ministry
Jesus' own family struggled to understand His mission. We can find encouragement in knowing that family misunderstandings are not uncommon in the pursuit of God's calling.

Recognizing God's Work in the Ordinary
God often works through ordinary people and circumstances. We should remain open to seeing His hand in the everyday aspects of life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' occupation as a carpenter influence your understanding of His character and mission?

2. In what ways can familiarity with Jesus or the church lead to a lack of reverence or belief in His power today?

3. How can we overcome skepticism and recognize God's work in those we know well, as the people of Nazareth failed to do?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jesus' experience with His family that can help us navigate our own family relationships in light of our faith?

5. How can we better recognize and appreciate God's presence and work in the ordinary aspects of our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 13:55-57
This passage parallels Mark 6:3, providing additional context to the skepticism Jesus faced in His hometown.

John 1:46
Nathanael's question, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" reflects the low regard for Nazareth, similar to the disbelief in Mark 6:3.

Philippians 2:7
Paul speaks of Jesus taking the form of a servant, which aligns with His humble beginnings as a carpenter.

Isaiah 53:3
The prophecy of the Messiah being despised and rejected by men is fulfilled in the reaction of the people of Nazareth.

Acts 4:13
The apostles, like Jesus, were ordinary men, yet God used them mightily, showing that God often works through the humble and lowly.