Mark 16:20

And they went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked through them, confirming His word by the signs that accompanied it.

Study Bible

And they went out
This phrase marks the beginning of the apostles' mission following the resurrection of Jesus. The Greek word for "went out" is "ἐξελθόντες" (exelthontes), which implies a purposeful departure. This action signifies the apostles' obedience to the Great Commission, as they leave their previous lives to spread the Gospel. Historically, this reflects the early Christian movement's expansion beyond Jerusalem, fulfilling Jesus' command to be His witnesses "to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8).

and preached everywhere
The Greek term for "preached" is "κηρύσσω" (kērussō), meaning to proclaim or herald. This indicates the authoritative and public nature of their message. "Everywhere" underscores the universal scope of the Gospel, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. The apostles' preaching was not confined to synagogues or Jewish communities but extended to Gentiles, fulfilling the prophecy that God's salvation would reach all nations (Isaiah 49:6).

while the Lord worked with them
The phrase "worked with them" is derived from the Greek "συνεργοῦντος" (synergoúntos), suggesting a partnership or cooperation. This highlights the divine assistance and empowerment the apostles received. It is a reminder that their efforts were not in their own strength but through the Lord's presence and power. This partnership is a fulfillment of Jesus' promise to be with His disciples always (Matthew 28:20).

and confirmed His word
The word "confirmed" comes from the Greek "βεβαιόω" (bebaioō), meaning to establish or make firm. This indicates that the apostles' message was validated by God Himself. The "word" refers to the Gospel message, the good news of Jesus Christ's death and resurrection. The confirmation of this word is seen as a divine endorsement, assuring believers of the truth and reliability of the Gospel.

by the signs that accompanied it
The "signs" are miraculous events that served as evidence of divine authority and truth. The Greek word "σημεῖα" (sēmeia) is often used in the New Testament to describe miracles that point to a greater reality. These signs "accompanied" the preaching, meaning they were not the focus but served to support and authenticate the message. Historically, these signs were crucial in the early church to demonstrate the power of God and to draw people to faith in Christ. They fulfilled Jesus' promise that His followers would perform greater works (John 14:12) and served as a testament to the living and active presence of God in the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Disciples
The followers of Jesus who were commissioned to spread the Gospel. They are the primary actors in this verse, going out to preach.

2. The Lord (Jesus Christ)
The risen Christ who works through the disciples, confirming their message with signs.

3. Everywhere
This indicates the broad scope of the disciples' mission, emphasizing the universal call to evangelize.

4. Signs
Miraculous events that confirmed the truth of the disciples' message, serving as divine validation of their preaching.

5. The Word
The message of the Gospel that the disciples were proclaiming, centered on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Disciples
The disciples were obedient to the call of Christ, demonstrating the importance of obedience in the Christian life.

The Power of the Lord
Jesus continues to work through His followers, showing that the mission of the Church is empowered by Christ Himself.

The Importance of Signs
Signs and wonders serve as a confirmation of the Gospel message, reminding us that God actively participates in the spread of His Word.

The Universality of the Gospel
The call to preach "everywhere" highlights the universal nature of the Gospel, encouraging believers to share the message with all people.

The Assurance of God's Presence
The Lord's working through the disciples assures believers of His presence and support in their mission.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of the disciples in Mark 16:20 inspire you in your own walk of faith and evangelism?

2. In what ways can you rely on the power of the Lord to work through you as you share the Gospel with others?

3. How do the signs and wonders mentioned in Mark 16:20 relate to the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer today?

4. What are some practical ways you can participate in the universal mission of the Gospel in your local community?

5. How does the assurance of God's presence, as seen in Mark 16:20, encourage you in times of doubt or fear when sharing your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 28:18-20
The Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey His commands.

Acts 1:8
Jesus promises the disciples that they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them, enabling them to be His witnesses to the ends of the earth.

Hebrews 2:3-4
This passage speaks of the salvation first announced by the Lord and confirmed by those who heard Him, with God testifying through signs, wonders, and various miracles.