The Essential JesusSample

Gospel Power

PRAY: Heavenly Father, "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection" (Philippians 3:10). Show me how that's possible today as I read your Word.

READ: Mark 16:1-20

REFLECT: Perhaps your Bible includes a note indicating that most early manuscripts don't include Mark 16:9-20. What's that all about? Over the years, scholars have offered different explanations. Still, the most likely is that either Mark died just before he finished his Gospel account or the last section of his scroll was somehow destroyed, and as a result, someone close to Mark filled in the last section. We'll never know for sure. Still, these verses are included because they help fill in the picture of this exciting time.

So what do we learn from Mark's account of the resurrection? First, we note the many similarities to other Gospel accounts, a fact that enhances the credibility of this passage. Mark reports that the resurrection was discovered early on the "first day of the week" (Sunday) by the women close to Jesus (v. 2) and that an angel (described as a young man) was present to explain things (v. 5). And note that the angel's message is virtually the same as we read in Matthew (compare Matthew 28:5-7 with Mark 16:6-7). Everyone has the same basic story.

But our reading today gives us two unique insights into this momentous day.

There are consequences to our choices about the gospel (vv. 15-16). In this version of the events around the resurrection, Jesus' words are not just a motivational challenge, "Go into all the world" (v. 15). Here, they are linked to another of his "hard sayings," our response to the good news determines whether we're "saved" or "condemned" (v. 16). We must be very careful not to scare or manipulate people with these words. But on the other hand, it's important to know there are consequences to our decision about Jesus.

There is power in the message of the gospel (vv. 17-18). You may not feel comfortable with all the examples listed here; personally, I'm not a big fan of snakes. Again, we must be careful with these verses; we shouldn't sensationalize them or attempt dangerous things without clear direction from the Lord. But the fact remains Jesus said we would do "even greater things" after his death and resurrection (John 14:12). That's a powerful message.

APPLY: For you, what is the most powerful thing about the resurrection of Jesus? Why?

PRAY: Spend a few minutes asking God to show you how you could respond to the Great Commission in your world.