Mark 16:18

Mark 16:18 is part of the "longer ending" of the Gospel of Mark (verses 9-20), a section whose textual authenticity has been debated among scholars, though it has been widely accepted and included in most Bible translations for centuries. This verse describes several extraordinary signs that Jesus said would accompany those who believe and preach the Gospel.

Context

This verse immediately follows Jesus' commission to His disciples to "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15). It is presented as a confirmation of the divine authority behind their mission. The signs listed – casting out devils, speaking with new tongues, taking up serpents, drinking deadly things without harm, and healing the sick – are depicted as outward demonstrations of God's power working through believers to validate the message of salvation.

Key Themes

• Divine Protection: The verse speaks of believers being supernaturally protected from harm, specifically from serpents and deadly poisons. This highlights God's sovereignty over natural dangers when His people are engaged in His work.
• Confirmation of the Gospel: These miraculous signs served as powerful attestations to the truth of the Gospel message being proclaimed. They were not merely for show, but to authenticate the divine origin of the disciples' mission.
• Power for Ministry: Beyond protection, the verse emphasizes the active power given to believers for ministry, particularly in casting out demons and healing the sick, demonstrating God's compassion and authority over spiritual and physical ailments.
• Faith and Obedience: While the signs are supernatural, they are associated with "them that believe." This underscores the role of faith in experiencing and exercising such divine empowerments for the sake of the Kingdom.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "signs" (semeion) often refers to an indication, a token, or a miracle that points to a deeper truth or divine reality. These were not ends in themselves but served to confirm the divine presence and power accompanying the proclamation of the Gospel. The phrase "they shall recover" (kalōs hexousin) implies a restoration to health, indicating a complete and effective healing.

Biblical Examples & Cross-References

• Taking up serpents: The most direct biblical example of handling serpents without harm is found in the account of Paul on the island of Malta, where he was bitten by a viper but suffered no ill effects, astonishing the local inhabitants.
• Drinking deadly thing: While there isn't a direct parallel in Scripture to a believer intentionally drinking poison and surviving, the principle of divine protection from harm is echoed in passages like Psalm 91:13, which speaks of trampling on lions and cobras, and generally in God's preservation of His servants.
• Laying hands on the sick: This practice is widely seen throughout the New Testament, starting with Jesus Himself (Mark 6:5) and continuing through the apostles. Peter healed the lame man in Acts 3:6-8, and James encourages elders to pray over the sick, anointing them with oil (James 5:14-15).

Practical Application

While some Christians interpret these signs literally as a promise for all believers in all ages, many understand them in context as specific empowerments given to the early apostles to establish the foundational truth of the Gospel in a hostile world. The core message for believers today is not necessarily to seek out literal serpents or poisons, but to trust in God's divine protection when serving Him and to recognize the ongoing power of the Holy Spirit to work through His people. This includes:

• Spiritual Authority: Believers still have authority over spiritual "serpents" (evil influences) and "deadly things" (harmful doctrines or temptations) through Christ's power.
• The Power of Prayer for Healing: The promise of healing the sick remains a vital aspect of Christian ministry, demonstrating God's compassion and power to restore.
• Boldness in Evangelism: The signs ultimately served to confirm the message of salvation. Today, while overt miracles may vary in frequency, the power of the Gospel to transform lives remains the greatest "sign" of God's active presence.

Ultimately, Mark 16:18 encourages believers to have confidence in God's empowering presence as they fulfill the Great Commission, trusting in His protection and the supernatural enablement for ministry.