- Interpretation of the Sabbath: Jesus challenges the traditional, strict interpretation of Sabbath laws by performing acts of healing and allowing his disciples to gather food. This is illustrated in the passage where his disciples pick grain: "One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and his disciples began to pick some heads of grain, rub them in their hands and eat the kernels. Some of the Pharisees asked, 'Why are you doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?'". Jesus defends his actions, asserting his authority: "The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath." And then validates his point by healing a man with a withered hand. "Stretch out your hand.” He did so, and his hand was completely restored."
- Selection of the Twelve Apostles: The passage details Jesus's selection of twelve apostles after a night of prayer. "One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles". The names of the apostles are listed. This highlights the formation of his inner circle and the foundation of his ministry's continuation.
