What does Mark 16:20 mean?

Explanation

Mark 16:20 is the closing verse of the Gospel according to Mark in the Christian New Testament.

This verse describes the actions of the disciples following Jesus’ resurrection and ascension.

It suggests that the disciples were diligent in spreading the message of Jesus, termed "preaching everywhere." The phrase "the Lord working with them" indicates that Jesus, though ascended, was still spiritually present and supportive of their efforts.

The "signs following" points to the various miracles and extraordinary events that are said to have accompanied the spreading of the Gospel, serving as evidence or confirmation of the divine truth of their witness.

These signs could include healings, exorcisms, and other miraculous phenomena that are recorded as having taken place in the Book of Acts and other New Testament writings.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Mark is widely thought to be the earliest of the four canonical Gospels, typically dated between AD 66 and 70.

This verse most likely reflects the early Christian community’s understanding of their mission in the world following Jesus' life and teachings.

The historical context of this verse involves the spreading of Christianity beyond the Jewish context into the Greco-Roman world, a period that saw the apostles travel widely, facing various challenges, including persecution.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, Mark 16:20 synthesizes key aspects of Christian belief.

It reinforces the idea of Jesus' ongoing presence and support ("the Lord working with them"), the missionary mandate to the disciples ("preached everywhere"), and the corroborating role of miracles ("confirming the word with signs following").

Diverse denominations interpret these aspects differently; for example, the cessationist view holds that miraculous gifts ceased with the apostolic age, while continuationists believe that such signs and miracles are still available and active within the church today.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse can serve as an inspiration for Christians to be active in sharing their faith and to rely on the belief that they are not alone in their endeavors; that the spiritual presence of Jesus supports their efforts.

This message can encourage believers to engage with their communities and to trust that their faith can have tangible impacts, just as the early disciples experienced.

Cross-References

• Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission, where Jesus instructs His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations.
• Acts 2:43 - The early church and the awe that came upon them through witnessing various wonders and signs.
• Hebrews 2:3-4 - A passage speaking about salvation and God bearing witness with signs and miracles.
• 1 Corinthians 2:4-5 - Paul discusses his preaching not with enticing words but with demonstration of the Spirit and of power.

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key words such as "συνεργέω" (sunergéō, translated as “working with”) and "ἐπακολουθέω" (epakolouthéō, rendered “following”) have nuanced meanings. "συνεργέω" conveys cooperation or working together, suggesting an active divine agency alongside human efforts. "ἐπακολουθέω" implies a sequence or consequence, underscoring the miracles as confirmatory signs that naturally accompanied the message.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparatively, the concept of signs and wonders accompanying a divine message is not unique to Christianity.

In various religious traditions, founders or key figures often perform miracles to validate their spiritual authority.

Examples include the miracles of Moses in Judaism and the wonders associated with various Hindu deities.

Such commonalities suggest a shared human interest in seeing transcendental truths validated by supernatural means.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the "signs following" invites discussion regarding the limits of scientific explanation and the role of faith.

Although many claims of supernatural events in religious texts are not verifiable and often conflict with the scientific understanding of the world, such passages are typically interpreted metaphorically or as expressions of faith rather than empirical fact among many modern believers.

Commentaries

Various Biblical scholars and commentators have provided insights on Mark 16:20:

• John MacArthur emphasizes the reliability of the disciples' witness by noting that their word was confirmed by accompanying signs.
• William Barclay discusses the spread of Christianity as being so effective because it was a faith that was lived out and demonstrated in practical ways.
• N.T.

Wright focuses on the Kingdom of God being enacted through the preaching of the disciples and the validating signs as outworkings of Jesus' sovereignty over the world.