16:18 16:18

Mark 16:19

16:20 16:20

Bible Versions

¶ So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.
So {G3303} then {G3767} after {G3326} the Lord {G2962} had spoken {G2980} unto them {G846}, he was received up {G353} into {G1519} heaven {G3772}, and {G2532} sat {G2523} on {G1537} the right hand {G1188} of God {G2316}.
So then, after he had spoken to them, the Lord Yeshua was taken up into heaven and sat at the right hand of God.
After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, He was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God.
So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken unto them, was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God.

Mark 16:19 describes the culmination of Jesus’ earthly post-resurrection ministry and His transition to heavenly reign. This verse succinctly captures the pivotal moment of the Ascension, where Jesus departs from His disciples after giving them final instructions, and assumes His rightful place of authority in heaven.

Context

This verse appears at the very end of Mark's Gospel, following Jesus' appearances to His disciples after His resurrection. While the authenticity of Mark 16:9-20 has been debated by scholars, it has historically been included in the King James Version and many other translations, providing a summary of Jesus' post-resurrection activities and His final departure. Immediately prior to this verse, Jesus gives the disciples the Great Commission, instructing them to go into all the world and preach the gospel. The Ascension marks the end of His physical presence on earth and the beginning of the Church's mission, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Ascension of Christ: Jesus being "received up into heaven" signifies the completion of His redemptive work on earth. It is not merely a departure, but a glorious enthronement. This event is vital as it demonstrates His victory over sin and death, and His return to the Father's presence. A more detailed account is found in Acts 1:9-11.
  • The Exaltation and Authority of Jesus: The phrase "sat on the right hand of God" is a powerful biblical idiom. It does not imply a literal physical sitting, but rather a position of supreme authority, power, and honor. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, sitting at the right hand of a king or dignitary signified the highest level of delegated authority and co-regency. For Jesus, it means He is enthroned as King of Kings and Lord of Lords, exercising divine sovereignty over all creation. This fulfills prophecies such as Psalm 110:1.
  • Jesus' Ongoing Heavenly Ministry: From His position at the right hand of God, Jesus continues His work. He intercedes for believers (Romans 8:34), prepares a place for His followers (John 14:2-3), and governs the universe, awaiting the opportune time for His second coming.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "received up" is anelēmphthē (ἀνελήφθη), which literally means "was taken up" or "was assumed." This passive voice emphasizes that Jesus was not merely floating away, but was actively taken up by divine power, signifying God's acceptance and exaltation of Him. The phrase "sat on the right hand of God" (Greek: ekathisen ek dexiōn tou Theou) is a direct reference to the established position of honor and power in the ancient world, affirming Jesus' divine status and authority. This imagery is consistent throughout the New Testament, as seen in Hebrews 1:3.

Practical Application

Mark 16:19 offers profound comfort and assurance to believers. It confirms that Jesus' victory is complete and His authority absolute. We serve a King who reigns in heaven, actively interceding for us and guiding His church. This understanding provides:

  • Assurance: Knowing Jesus is enthroned gives us confidence in His power and sovereignty over all circumstances.
  • Hope: The Ascension is a promise of Christ's return, and that believers will one day join Him in glory.
  • Empowerment for Mission: Because Jesus has all authority, believers are empowered to carry out the Great Commission, knowing He is with them always (Matthew 28:20).
This verse encourages us to look beyond earthly concerns and fix our gaze on the ascended Christ, who is our Lord, Savior, and King.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Peter 3:22

    Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.

  • Hebrews 1:3

    Who being the brightness of [his] glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

  • Hebrews 12:2

    Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of [our] faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

  • Romans 8:34

    Who [is] he that condemneth? [It is] Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

  • Psalms 110:1

    ¶ A Psalm of David. The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.

  • Acts 2:33

    Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

  • Colossians 3:1

    ¶ If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
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