Today we are reading Mark 16. In this chapter we read about the resurrection of Jesus. When He appears to the disciples He rebukes them and then commissions them.“Afterward he appeared to the eleven themselves as they were reclining at table, and he rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who saw him after he had risen. And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” Mark 16:14-16 ESV Normally, when a person receives a rebuke, there is discouragement and a defensive wall goes up. In this passage, Jesus clearly calls out “The Eleven” for unbelief and hardness of heart. Do these guys seem like prime candidates to do mission work? In the moment, they are overwhelmed with joy at seeing Jesus, but He is all business. First, He knocks them down and then He picks them up and gives them a job. Their job is the most important occupation they could ever pursue. They are to go into all the world and proclaim the Gospel. Today we are the fruit of their labor. Now it is our turn! Has your unbelief and hardness of heart hindered you in proclaiming the Gospel? Let’s get to it! Let’s carry on the mission of our spiritual ancestors. Jesus is risen! Pastor Tim
