“And he said to them, 'Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.'”
Mark 16:15
Summary
Mark 16 recounts the resurrection of Jesus, beginning with the visit of Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome to the tomb on the first day of the week to anoint Jesus’ body with spices. They find the stone rolled away and encounter a young man in a white robe who tells them that Jesus has risen and instructs them to inform the disciples. The women initially flee in fear but later deliver the message. Jesus then appears to Mary Magdalene, who reports his resurrection to the disciples, though initially met with skepticism. Jesus also appears to two disciples walking in the country and finally, to the eleven as they are eating. In this final appearance, Jesus commissions them to spread the gospel to all creation and promises signs that will accompany their mission, such as casting out demons and speaking in tongues. The chapter concludes with Jesus' ascension into heaven and the disciples obediently preaching everywhere.