Mark 16:9-20

Faith, Not Sight (vv. 9-14)

The disciples did not set out to fabricate a hoax -> they were convinced Jesus was dead and something very radical happened to change that

They were reprimanded for their lack of faith, because God requires us to live by faith, not sight (Jn. 20:24-29)

We must believe! -> we have great reason to!

They did not just assume the empty tomb meant He was alive -> they saw Jesus (1 Jn. 1:1-3)

Eye-witness reports of the supernatural are still eye-witness reports -> we must consider what they say

There is overwhelming evidence to support for the resurrection, and the only proof that it didn’t happen is “people don’t raise from the dead”

The Great Commission and Apostolic Signs (vv. 15-18)

This commission was given to the disciples, and they were faithful to it -> it has now been passed to us to continue!

We are separated unto the gospel!

This baptism is not a water baptism, but a spiritual one (Acts 2:38; 1 Pet. 3:21)

These signs mentioned are apostolic signs, not a green light to play with venomous snakes (Acts 28:3-5)

This further validates the message they preached and gives all glory to God!

The Ascension (vv. 19-20)

Jesus is no longer walking this earth in a body, but has sent His Spirit and is sitting at the right hand of the father

This is important for multiple reasons!

For one, Jesus limited Himself on this earth in a human body -> hungry, thirsty, one place at a time, etc.

Where there were often multitudes waiting it line, it is no longer the case -> no more need to climb trees to get to God (Lk. 19:1-5)

Second, He is with the Father making intercession for us -> the righteous judge pleads our case (Heb. 7:20-25)

He is also where He belongs, being worshipped and glorified!

May our response be like the disciples -> go into all the world!