And going on a little farther, He saw James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, who were in their boat mending the nets. Mark 1:19
The Greek word katartizo means to repair, restore or even to make perfect. It is the word used by the disciples when mending their nets. They understood how important it was that it was done right since their ability to provide for their family depended on it.
Strong’s1 adds nuance to our understanding of the word and includes “to complete thoroughly, adjust, fit, prepare and make perfect, as in joining together.” This is also the word that is translated equip.
While it is a word picture the early disciples would have resonated with from their vocation, katartizo shows up regularly in the New Testament in the context of our spiritual formation. It is the Spirit’s work in us as well as how we are to engage one another.
A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained (katartizo) will be like his teacher. Luke 6:40
I am in constant need of mending and being prepared for His work. And part of that work is being used by the Holy Spirit in healing, equipping and repairing one another. We are not isolated in our spiritual formation but will be brought along together towards maturity as we yield to Him.
…to equip (katartizo) His people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up. Ephesians 4:12
- https://biblehub.com/greek/2675.htm ↩︎
