Mark 16: The Day the World Changed

Read Mark chapter 16

Introduction: The last chapter of Mark, Mark 16 shows us the conclusion of the event that has changed the world – the resurrection of Jesus Christ. As we study this chapter verse by verse, we meet the women who first discovered the empty tomb, the risen Lord’s appearances to His disciples, and the Great Commission given to all believers, which is; spread this gospel. This chapter not only shows us clear evidence of Jesus’ victory over death, it also gives us our marching orders as believers and empowers us for our mission as His followers.

I. The Resurrection of Jesus (Mark 16:1-8)
The chapter begins with Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bringing spices to anoint Jesus’ body (Mark 16:1). They find the stone rolled away and a young man dressed in white, who announces that Jesus has risen (Mark 16:4-6). The women flee in fear and confusion, telling no one what they saw (Mark 16:8). This fulfills the prophecy of Jesus’ resurrection (Matthew 16:21) and echoes the angelic messages at Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:9-12).

II. Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene (Mark 16:9-11)
Jesus first appears to Mary Magdalene, from whom He had cast out seven demons (Mark 16:9). She tells the disciples, but they do not believe her (Mark 16:10-11). This lines up with John 20:14-18, where Jesus reveals Himself to Mary, shedding light on His personal relationship with His followers.

III. Jesus Appears to Two Disciples (Mark 16:12-13)
Two disciples encounter Jesus while walking in the country, but are not recognized until later (Mark 16:12). They report back to the others, who again do not believe (Mark 16:13). These verses bring to mind the account of the disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35), pointing to the fact that Jesus walks with us in our times of confusion and trouble.

IV. The Great Commission (Mark 16:14-18)
Jesus appears to the Eleven, rebuking their unbelief and commissioning them to preach the gospel to all creation (Mark 16:14-15). He promises signs that will be present in believers, such as driving out demons and speaking in new tongues (Mark 16:17). This command is a reflection of Matthew 28:18-20, where Jesus sends His disciples to make disciples of all nations.

V. The Ascension of Jesus (Mark 16:19-20)
After giving His final words, Jesus is taken up into heaven and sits at the right hand of God (Mark 16:19). The disciples go out, preaching everywhere, with the Lord confirming their message through signs and wonders (Mark 16:20). This ascension affirms Jesus’ divine authority (Acts 1:9-11) and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit in believers to carry on His work.

Conclusion: Mark 16 tells the story of the most important moment in human history – the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, the victory of death, hell and the grave. From the empty tomb to the Great Commission, this chapter reinforces the validity of the risen Lord and challenges us to respond with faith in Him, and obedience to Him. As we read about this evidence of Jesus’ victory over death and the call to share this good news of the gospel, we as believers should be inspired to live as His faithful witnesses in the world.