Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Mark 6:8

"and he charged them that they should take nothing for [their] journey, save a staff only; no bread, no wallet, now money in their purse;" — Mark 6:8 (ASV)

Inherent in the commission of the Twelve was absolute trust in God to supply all their needs, including their physical needs. They were to take only what they had on their backs. The only exception was a staff. They were to take no food or money. Clothing was to be minimal. Sandals were allowed and only one tunic. Jesus probably made this last prohibition because he wanted the disciples to trust God for the provision of hospitality for each night (an extra tunic was used as a night covering in the open air). Jesus undoubtedly expected them to preach the same message as he did . He also calls us to self-dedication to him and his message.