Mark 16:12-20

The reason for these omissions is plain from the character of the narrative. Failing to see the proper place of this commission, and that the record itself says that it was fulfilled (Mar_16:20), the proclamation was found to be impracticable, hence was considered spurious. Those who took this commission on themselves found they could not cast out demons, take up serpents, drink poison, or raise the dead, though they might seem to speak new languages or help the ailing. This commission is for all creation. It is not confined to Israel, or mankind, but is directed to men as apart of the wider realm of creation. Originally, Adam was on close terms with the lower creatures. This commission will be restored in the kingdom. Paul, in his earlier ministries, had a part in this proclamation. While on the island of Melita, a viper fastens on his hand. The natives looked for him to become inflamed or suddenly fall dead, but he twitched it off into the fire and felt no ill effects (Act_28:1-6). There, too, he heals the father of Publius and others in the island. The strange part of this is that this occurred after he himself had a physical disability and did not cure his friends. The reason is that this gospel was to be preached to every creature, and had not reached Melita before. When this narrative was closed it had been proclaimed everywhere, and was confirmed with signs following. Connected with the kingdom, it now awaits its fullest fruitage in that glorious day. Its signs reverse the curse of Eden. The serpent is rendered harmless and poison is powerless to produce death.

12-13 Compare Luk_24:13-35.

14 Compare Luk_24:36-44; Joh_20:19-25. See 1Co_15:5.

15 See Mat_28:18-20; Luk_24:45-49; Col_1:23.

16 See Act_16:29-34.

17 See Act_28:5; Act_9:32-35; Jam_5:14-15.

19 Compare Luk_24:50-53; Act_1:1-11. See Psa_110:1

20 See Act_5:12; Heb_2:4.