Welcome to episode 98 of Grasp the Bible.  In this episode, we continue our study in the Book of Mark, covering chapter 16:1-8.  The series is called “Get in, buckle up, and hold on!”  Today, we look at Jesus’ resurrection and alternate endings of the book.  We will cover: 

• The grief (vv. 1-4) 
• The glory (vv. 5-8) 

Key takeaways: 

• There has been much debate for centuries over the correct ending of the book, with the tide shifting back and forth between ending at v. 8 and ending at v. 20. 
• The longer ending that appears in most manuscripts (16:9–20) is probably not original. It does not appear in the most important early manuscripts. It represents a compendium of resurrection appearances from other gospels and was likely composed by a second-century copyist disturbed by the abrupt ending of Mark. 
• Whichever view is taken on the ending, Mark leaves no doubt about the historical reality of the resurrection of Jesus the Messiah and the appropriate response of those who have faith in him: to persevere through suffering and to boldly proclaim the resurrection and the kingdom of God. 
• The empty tomb alone is not proof of the resurrection. It only invites the question, “What happened to the body of Jesus?”  The angel, however, provides the answer. 
• Mark's Christological purpose is to show that Jesus is indeed the mighty Messiah predicted in Scripture, but that his surprising role is to suffer and die as a sacrifice for sin. 

Quotable: 

• No matter which ending you choose to follow, the resurrection is an assured fact for Mark and his readers. 

Application: 

• Mark’s enigmatic story of Jesus leaves the women (and the disciples) in the same position as Mark’s readers—with the resurrection announcement and a call to faith and perseverance. How will they respond? 
• Mark’s historical and theological assertion is crystal clear: Jesus of Nazareth has risen from the dead! 
• Mark’s gospel is a narrative call to persevere and stay faithful, and God will vindicate believers in the end. 

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