The Gospel accounts of Matthew, Mark, and Luke contain overlapping information. For this reason, they are called the “Synoptic Gospels” (meaning “seeing together,” or a common view). Mark’s account of Jesus’ call of his disciples adds additional insights not found in Luke. Therefore, we will consider the two accounts together.
The first chapter of Acts chronicles the final days of Jesus’ earthly ministry and adjustments made by his followers immediately after his departure. Verse 3 says that Jesus “presented himself alive” during a 40-day period. Verse 8, a famous restatement of the church’s Great Commission, summarizes the mission of Christ’s followers: “You shall be my…