Mark Chapter 16 — The Resurrection and Great Commission
Following the crucifixion, Mary Magdalene and others find Jesus' tomb empty and receive news of His resurrection. Jesus later appears to His followers and commissions them to spread the Good News.
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Notable Verses
Mark 16:6
“He said to them, “Don’t be amazed. You seek Jesus, the Nazarene, who has been crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him!”
This verse provides the central announcement of the resurrection and the evidence of the empty tomb.
Mark 16:15
“He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to the whole creation.”
This is known as the Great Commission, defining the primary mission of the church to spread the Gospel.
Chapter Summary
Mark 16 begins with Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome visiting Jesus' tomb early on the first day of the week to anoint His body. They find the massive stone rolled away and a young man in a white robe inside, who announces that Jesus has risen. He instructs them to tell the disciples that Jesus is going ahead of them to Galilee. The narrative continues with Jesus appearing to Mary Magdalene, two disciples on the road, and finally the eleven disciples. Jesus rebukes their initial unbelief and delivers the Great Commission, charging them to preach the Gospel to all creation and promising signs to accompany believers. The chapter concludes with Jesus ascending to heaven to sit at God's right hand, while the disciples begin their mission of preaching everywhere, supported by the Lord’s confirming signs.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to the text, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome visited the tomb early on the first day of the week. They brought spices with the intention of anointing Jesus' body.
They saw that the large stone had already been rolled away from the entrance. Inside, they encountered a young man in a white robe who told them that Jesus had risen and was no longer there.
Jesus commanded His disciples to go into all the world and preach the Good News to every creature. He also stated that those who believe and are baptized would be saved.
Study Note
The concluding portion of Mark (verses 9-20) is noted in many manuscripts and scholarly traditions as having a unique textual history compared to the earlier chapters.
Related Chapters
Matthew Chapter 28
Provides another account of the resurrection and the Great Commission.
Luke Chapter 24
Offers additional details on the appearances of Jesus and His ascension into heaven.
Acts Chapter 1
Continues the narrative of the disciples and the mission of the early church after Jesus' ascension.
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