Mark·Chapter 16

How to Apply

Take a moment this week to reflect on something that feels intimidating—maybe a conversation you’ve been avoiding, a fear you want to overcome, or a goal you’ve been hesitant to pursue. Approach it with the mindset of this verse: believe that you have what it takes to face it! Start small; if it’s a conversation, maybe reach out and express your thoughts. If it’s a goal, take one step toward it, trusting you’re not alone in your journey. Embrace the idea that you carry power and support as you move forward.

Chapter Context

This moment comes at the end of Mark’s Gospel, where the narrative is all about the aftermath of Jesus’ resurrection. The disciples are being sent out on a mission to share the incredible news of what they’ve seen and experienced. This verse is a powerful promise of what will empower them as they go out into the world—protection and the ability to perform miracles. It’s like the climax of a superhero story: they've been given extraordinary abilities just when the stakes are at their highest. This verse captures the essence of their mission and the thrilling potential of what they can accomplish with faith.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• up - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• serpents - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• if - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• drink - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• any - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• deadly - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• hurt - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• them - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• lay - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• hands - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What’s one fear or challenge in your life that you feel you could face more boldly, knowing you have support?

Related Verses

• Luke 10:19 - Jesus tells His followers they have authority over all the power of the enemy, emphasizing their protection and strength.
• Acts 28:3-5 - Paul shakes a viper off his hand and suffers no harm, showing that this promise of protection was fulfilled in action.
• John 14:12 - Jesus says that anyone who believes in Him will do the works He has done, and even greater things, highlighting the empowerment of believers.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Mark 16:18. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Resurrection, Faith and Unbelief, Commissioning Disciples, Divine Empowerment, Evangelism, Hope, Witnessing

Key Verses

Mark 16:6, Mark 16:15, Mark 16:16, Mark 16:19, Mark 16:20

Historical Context

Mark's Gospel is believed to be the earliest of the four gospels, written likely between 50-70 AD. It emphasizes Jesus as the suffering Servant and the Son of God, focusing heavily on His actions. Chapter 16 serves as a climactic conclusion, detailing the resurrection and the implications of this event for the disciples and the early Church. The chapter reflects the urgency of Jesus' message and the commissioning of His followers, setting the stage for the spread of the gospel beyond Israel.