Why could Jesus not perform a miracle in Mark 6:1-6?

[ValleyCatholic]

There are certain questions I have and would like clarification.

First, I am not understanding the contention regarding the meaning of the words for “brother” and “sister” in this passage regarding Greek and Hebrew usage. In short, I believe in the perpetual virginity of Mary, but my study Bible seems to show that this passage has some linguistic problems. Secondly, why was Jesus, “not able to perform any might deed there”? I would think he could overcome all things.

 

[Fr.Charles_Grondin]

He departed from there and came to his native place, accompanied by his disciples. When the sabbath came he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished. They said, “Where did this man get all this? What kind of wisdom has been given him? What mighty deeds are wrought by his hands! Is he not the carpenter, the son of Mary, and the brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and among his own kin and in his own house.” So he was not able to perform any mighty deed there, apart from curing a few sick people by laying his hands on them. He was amazed at their lack of faith.

In Semitic culture and language the terms “brother” and “sister” could be used to refer to any close relative or even a very close friend or ally. The fact that the Aramaic was literally translated into Greek is not proof that these are children of Mary and Joseph.

For more details see Catholic Answers’ Jesus had Brothers? and “Brethren of the Lord”

As for why Jesus did not overcome their lack of faith, he could have but choose not to. God does not attempt to overcome us or overpower us, God created us with free will and always requires some level of cooperation from us.

The other issue that would have been present is that in the 1st century AD there were quite a few “wonder workers” hawking their miracles. This unbelieving crowd that demands Jesus perform miracles is basically making a circus show out of Jesus’ ministry and turning it into a kind of carnival act to be gawked at, it is little wonder that Jesus chose not to participate. The miracles that Jesus performed were meant to be signs that he was who he said he was and were not the purpose of his ministry.