Daily Devotions
Mark
Acts 5:21b "But the high priest and those with him came and called the council together, with all the elders of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought." Acts 5:21b"
Day 351 – Mark 16
“But the high priest and those with him came and called the council together, with all the elders of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.” Acts 5:21b
THE LONGER ENDING OF MARK
Acceptance of the longer version of Mark poses little problem to conservative Biblical scholars. The reasons are as follows:-
1. The strength of tradition
For the longest time, the Church has accepted the longer version of Mark. Much is to be said for the long-standing tradition of accepting the longer version.
2. Old manuscripts
The longer version may be found in old manuscripts. Perhaps these manuscripts may not be the oldest, but these extant manuscripts are very reliable!
3. No contradiction found
We would have to be greatly concerned if the longer version posed a theological threat to the rest of Scripture. However, the longer-ending version (Mark 16:9-20) in no way contradicts Biblical teachings.
4. Lost in transmission
It is possible that the longer version of Mark was lost in transmission.
5. Arguments against the short-ending
a) That Mark ended his Gospel so abruptly is inconceivable
Consider the abruptness of the shorter ending
“So they went out quickly and fled from the tomb,
for they trembled and were amazed.
And they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.”
MARK 16:8
b) The other three Gospels had excellent conclusions!
It makes little sense to think that Mark concluded his Gospel on such an abrupt note intentionally.