This verse concludes the Gospel of Mark and speaks profoundly about the signs that accompany believers in Christ. It emphasizes not only the supernatural manifestations that validate the faith of followers but also the authority given to them in the name of Jesus.

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry points out that this passage emphasizes the miraculous works as evidence of faith. The 'signs' are not just extraordinary occurrences but are indicative of a believer's relationship with God. Casting out devils and speaking in new tongues are both acts that symbolize spiritual authority and renewal in the believer's life.

Albert Barnes' Notes

Albert Barnes expands on the concept of 'believers' and the nature of their faith. According to Barnes, the term 'believers' highlights those who place their trust in Jesus and aligns with earlier teachings of faith being demonstrated through action. The signs should not be sought after for their own sake, but as a product of genuine faith.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke addresses the implications of speaking in 'new tongues,' suggesting a direct link to the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. This feature reflects the broader theme of God empowering His people to fulfill their mission and spreads the Gospel across diverse cultures and languages.

• Acts 2:4: "And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." - A direct manifestation of speaking in new tongues.
• Mark 9:38-39: "And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name..." - Reflects the authority of Jesus’ name in driving out demons.
• Luke 10:17: "And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name." - Further evidence of the gifts provided to the followers of Christ.
• John 14:12: "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do..." - Reassurance of continued works through belief in Jesus.
• 1 Corinthians 12:10: "To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues..." - Discusses the diverse spiritual gifts given to believers.
• Romans 15:18-19: "For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed, through mighty signs and wonders..." - Validates the signs and wonders as part of the apostolic mission.
• James 5:14: "Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord." - Emphasizes the healing ministry in the early church.

Faith and Miracles: One theological theme that emerges from Mark 16:17 is the connection between faith and miraculous events. This is evident throughout the New Testament, emphasizing that faith in Christ results in the demonstration of His power through signs.

The Power of the Name of Jesus: The verse stresses the authority given through Jesus' name. This is echoed throughout the teachings of the apostles, where the name of Jesus becomes central in the ministry of healing and deliverance.

Mark 16:17 has been interpreted in various ways across denominations. Some emphasize the miraculous signs as evidence of an apostolic age that continues today, while others view them as confined to the early church's specific context and mission.

• Signs of Faith: Many interpret these signs as affirmations of one's faith rather than goals to pursue actively.
• Empowerment for Mission: The signs also serve as empowerment for the mission that Jesus entrusted to His followers beyond His earthly ministry.

Mark 16:17 serves as a powerful reminder of the supernatural dimension inherent in a life devoted to Jesus Christ. The signs that accompany believers not only reflect the living faith of those who follow Him but also underscore the authority and the transformational work of the Holy Spirit in the world.