17 And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues;
18 they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
Setting the Scene for Mark 16:17-18
The scene in Mark chapter 16:17-18 takes place after the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The disciples, including Peter, John, James, and the other apostles, are gathered together in a room in Jerusalem. They are still reeling from the miraculous events of the past few days, including Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and now, His resurrection. The atmosphere is one of awe, wonder, and perhaps a bit of confusion as they try to make sense of all that has happened.
Suddenly, Jesus appears in their midst, despite the locked doors. His presence brings a sense of peace and joy to the room, but also a healthy dose of fear and disbelief. Jesus reassures them, showing them His hands and side as proof of His resurrection. He then commissions them to go out into the world and preach the Gospel to all creation, promising that those who believe will perform signs and miracles in His name, such as casting out demons and speaking in new tongues.
The disciples are both amazed and overwhelmed by this charge, but they are also filled with a newfound sense of purpose and empowerment. They have witnessed the power of God firsthand and are now being called to share that power with others. As they step out into the world, they do so with a renewed faith and a deep sense of gratitude for the incredible journey they have been on with their beloved teacher, Jesus.
What is Mark 16:17-18 about?
This verse from the Gospel of Mark can be a source of great inspiration and motivation for believers. Jesus is making a promise here that those who follow Him will receive extraordinary spiritual gifts and abilities. The ability to perform miracles, cast out demons, speak in new tongues, and heal the sick are signs of the power of God working through His disciples. It is a reminder that as followers of Christ, we have access to a divine source of strength and gifts that can be used to bring about positive change in the world.
Reflecting on this verse, we may ask ourselves: What does it mean to have the power to perform miracles and heal the sick? How can we use these gifts to bring hope and healing to others? These promises from Jesus can serve as a call to action for believers, urging us to step out in faith and trust in God’s power working through us. It is an invitation to embrace the extraordinary and to be vessels of God’s love and mercy in a world that is often filled with darkness and despair. So, let us be encouraged by these words from Jesus and be open to the amazing ways in which He can work through us to bring about His Kingdom on earth.
Understanding what Mark 16:17-18 really means
Structure:
- Introduction and Context
- Key Phrases and Their Meanings
- Cross-References and Further Insight
- Relevance to Modern Life
- Anecdote for Illustration
- Reflective Questions and Conclusion
Commentary:
Introduction and Context:
The verses in Mark 16:17-18 come at the closing of the Gospel of Mark, a passage often referred to as the Great Commission. These verses describe the signs that will accompany believers and the power that faith in Jesus Christ can manifest. We need to delve into the deeper meaning of these verses and how they fit into the broader narrative of the Bible.
Key Phrases and Their Meanings:
The phrases “in my name” and “they will” are pivotal. Believers have authority and power through Jesus, signified by “In my name.” It’s not about personal ability but about the divine backing that comes with faith. “They will” highlights a future certainty—these are not mere possibilities but promised realities for those who believe.
Cross-References and Further Insight:
To deepen our understanding, we can look at John 14:12-14, where Jesus talks about believers doing greater works than He did because He is going to the Father. Similarly, Acts 2:17-18 speaks about the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the resulting signs and wonders. These cross-references reinforce the idea that the miraculous signs are a testament to faith and the working of the Holy Spirit. These verses remind us of the potential and power of faith in today’s world. While not all believers may experience these signs in the same way, the underlying principle is the transformative power of faith in action. It’s a call to trust in the promises of God and to live out our faith boldly. A modern-day believer felt called to serve in a remote area, despite the dangers. They trusted in God’s protection and provision, and through their ministry, many lives were transformed, and miraculous healings occurred. This real-world example mirrors the promise of Mark 16:17-18 and shows the continuing relevance of these verses. Let’s ask ourselves: How does my faith manifest in my daily life as we ponder these verses? Do I trust in the power of Jesus’ name? These questions help us internalize the message and challenge us to live out our faith more fully. The extraordinary God works through ordinary people in Mark 16:17-18, not just about extraordinary signs. It’s an invitation to trust deeply, to act boldly, and to witness the power of faith in our lives.
What does it mean to have authority over evil?
Having authority over evil means possessing the power to cast out demons and speak in new tongues. It signifies a control over dark forces and the ability to overcome spiritual opposition. This authority enables believers to confront and defeat evil influences in the spiritual realm.
Furthermore, having authority over evil demonstrates a connection to the divine and a partnership with God in combating the forces of darkness. It is a manifestation of faith and reliance on God’s strength to conquer all forms of evil. This authority empowers believers to stand firm in their faith, knowing that they are equipped to confront and overcome any spiritual attack that may come their way.
Application
Friend, remember the authority and power given to us. Embrace it fully—cast out demons, speak new languages, heal the sick. Don’t let fear hold you back. Step up, take action, and show the world God’s miracles. Are you ready to display His glory to those in need?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.