Mark 16:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 16:20
20 And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.
Chapter Context
Mark 16 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, love, redemption. Written during the mid first century CE (c. 65-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Composed during or just after Nero's persecution when eyewitnesses were disappearing.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Mark and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Mark 16:20
20 And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.
Analysis
Mark concludes: 'they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following' (ἐκεῖνοι δὲ ἐξελθόντες ἐκήρυξαν πανταχοῦ, τοῦ κυρίου συνεργοῦντος καὶ τὸν λόγον βεβαιοῦντος διὰ τῶν ἐπακολουθούντων σημείων). This summarizes apostolic mission. The disciples 'preached everywhere' (ekēryxan pantachou, ἐκήρυξαν πανταχοῦ)—universal gospel proclamation. Crucial detail: 'the Lord working with them' (tou kyriou synergountos, τοῦ κυρίου συνεργοῦντος)—Jesus, though ascended, actively partnered in their ministry through the Spirit. God 'confirmed the word with signs' (bebaiountos dia tōn sēmeiōn, βεβαιοῦντος διὰ τῶν σημείων)—miracles authenticated apostolic message (Acts 2:43; 4:30; 5:12; Hebrews 2:3-4). This pattern continues—Christ works through His church by the Spirit, confirming gospel truth. Mission isn't human effort alone but divine-human cooperation. The risen, ascended Lord empowers and accompanies His people in spreading the gospel to all nations.
Historical Context
The book of Acts records this apostolic mission's fulfillment—Peter preached at Pentecost (Acts 2), Philip in Samaria (Acts 8), Paul to Gentiles (Acts 9-28). The gospel spread from Jerusalem to Rome and beyond. 'Signs following' included healings (Acts 3:1-10; 5:12-16; 9:32-35), exorcisms (Acts 5:16; 8:7; 16:16-18), resurrections (Acts 9:36-42; 20:9-12), and miraculous deliverances (Acts 12:6-11; 16:25-26). These signs authenticated apostolic authority and gospel truth (2 Corinthians 12:12; Hebrews 2:3-4). Early church experienced divine presence and power, fulfilling Jesus' promise that greater works would be done through believers (John 14:12). Church history shows gospel's spread 'everywhere'—by AD 300, Christianity existed throughout Roman Empire and beyond. Christ's ongoing work through His church continues until His return.
Reflection
- How does the phrase 'the Lord working with them' demonstrate that Christian mission is divine-human partnership, not mere human effort?
- What role do 'signs following' play in confirming gospel truth, and how does this apply to contemporary ministry?
Word Studies
- Word: λόγος (Logos) G3056 - Word, reason, message
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Acts 14:3
- Parallel theme: Acts 4:30, 5:12, Romans 15:19, 2 Corinthians 6:1, Hebrews 2:4