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The Good News of Jesus, by Mark

 

Mark 1

 

1 The beginning of the Good News about Jesus Christ, God's Son.

 

John the Baptizer Prepares the Way

2 As it's written in the prophets,

 

“Behold, I'm sending my messenger ahead of you, he will prepare your way before you. 3 The voice of one shouting in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord! Make his paths straight!'”

 

4 John came baptizing in the wilderness, and proclaiming a baptism of a change of heart and mind for the forgiveness of sins. 5 And all the land of Judah, and those from Jerusalem went out to him, and they were all baptized by him in the Jordan River, acknowledging their sins.

Sadly, over the last 2000 years many religious people have added 'their own interpretations' to the Scriptures, to make the Scripture appear to support their Church's Dogmas (such as Jerome did in the 4th Century by translating "metanoeō" into Latin as "do-penance" (to beat yourself with sticks and wipes to show sorrow for sin). But the Greek word "metanoeō" simple means "to-change-your-mind". But this Catholic doctrinal error has been carried over into our English Bibles, because translators continued to use the Catholic terms, "repent and repentance" (which are "direct derivatives" from the Latin word, meaning, "to-do-penance"). But you don't have to beat-yourself-up; like Zacchaeus, the Tax Collector, you can have a joyful change-of-mind! (See Luke 19:1-10, also see Acts 16:25-34)

 6 Now John was clothed with camel's fur, and wore a leather belt around his waste, and he ate locusts and wild honey. 7 And he proclaimed, saying, “One more powerful than I am is coming after me. The strap of whose sandals, I'm not worthy to kneel down and untie. 8 Indeed, I have baptized you in water, but he will baptize you in the Holy Spirit.”

 

John Baptizes Jesus

9 Now it happened in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan River. 10 And immediately, coming up from the water, he saw the heavens opened and the Spirit coming down on him like a dove: 11 And a voice came out of the heavens, saying, “You are my beloved Son. In whom I am very pleased.”

 

Satan Tempts Jesus

12 And immediately the Spirit thrust him out into the wilderness. 13 And he was there in the wilderness for 40 days, being tested by Satan; and was with the wild animals; and the messengers waited on him.

 

Jesus Begins His Ministry

14 Now after John had been handed over to the authorities, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the Good News about God's Kingdom, 15 And saying, “The time has been fulfilled, and God's Kingdom is near. Change your minds and believe the Good News.” [Or, betrayed.]

 

Four Fishermen called to be Disciples

16 Now as he was walking beside the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. 17 And Jesus told them, “Come after me, and I will make you become fishers of people.” 18 And immediately, having left their nets, they followed him.

 

19 And when he had gone on a little farther from there, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who were also in a boat mending their nets. 20 And immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men, and went after him.

 

Jesus Casts Out an Unclean Spirit

21 And they went into Capernaum; and immediately on the days of Rest, having entered into the synagogue, he taught. 22 And they were astonished at his teaching; because he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

 

23 And there was a man in their synagogue with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, 24 Saying, “Leave us alone! What do we have to do with you, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God!”

 

25 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be muzzled, and come out of him!”

 

26 And the unclean spirit threw him into convulsions, and having cried out with a loud voice, he came out of him. 27 And everyone was so astonished, that they questioned among themselves, saying, “What is this? What new teaching is this? For with authority he commands even the unclean spirits, and they obediently listen to him.” 28 And immediately his fame went out into all the region around Galilee.

 

Peter's Mother-in-law Healed

29 And as soon as they had came out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, along with James and John. 30 Now Simon's mother-in-law was laying down, on fire with fever; and they immediately told him about her. 31 And having come to her, he took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and instantly the fever left her, and she began to serve them.

 

Many Healed After Day of Rest Sunset

32 And when evening had come, after the sun had set, they brought everyone who was sick to him, and those who were demon-possessed. 33 And the whole city was gathered together at the door. 34 And he healed many who were sick with various diseases and cast out many demons, but he didn't allow the demons to speak, because they knew him.

 

Jesus Proclaims the Good News in Galilee

35 And getting up very early, while it was still night; he went out, and came to a deserted place, and was praying there. 36 Then Simon and those who were with him went after him. 37 And when they had found him, they told him, “Everyone is looking for you!”

 

38 But he told them, “Let's go into the neighboring towns, that I may proclaim the Good News there also, because this is why I have come forth.”

 

39 And he was proclaiming the Good News in their synagogues throughout all of Galilee, and casting out demons.

 

Jesus Cleanses a Leper

40 And a leper came to him, pleading with him, and falling on his knee before him, and saying, “If you want to, you could make me clean.”

 

41 And Jesus, being moved with compassion, reaching out his hand, touched him, and told him, “I do want to. Be cleansed.” 42 And when he spoke, instantly the leprosy left him, and he was cleansed. 43 And he strictly instructed him, and immediately sent him away, 44 Telling him, “See that you say nothing to no one, but go and show yourself to the priest; and offer what Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them.”

 

45 But he went out and began to proclaim it much, and to spread the news abroad, to such an extent that Jesus no longer was able to openly enter into a city. Instead, he remained outside the cities, in uninhabited places, and they came to him from everywhere.

 

Mark 2

 

Jesus Forgives and Heals a Paralytic

1 And after some days he again entered into Capernaum, and it was heard that he was in the house. 2 And immediately so many were gathered together, that there was no longer any room to receive them, not even near the door: and he spoke the word to them. 3 And some came to him, bringing a paralytic, who was carried by four men. 4 And not being able to get near him because of the crowd, they uncovered the roof above where he was, and when they had made an opening, they let down the bed on which the paralytic was lying. [Literally, dug it out.]

 

5 And Jesus seeing their faith, told the paralytic, “Child, your sins have been forgiven.”

 

6 But there were some of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, 7 “Why does this man speak such blasphemies? Who is able to forgive sins, except God alone?”

 

8 And Jesus immediately knowing in his spirit, that they were reasoning in this way within themselves, told them, “Why do you reason such things in your hearts? 9 Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins have been forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up, and pick up your bed, and walk'? 10 But in order that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins,” (he told the paralytic), 11 “I tell you, get up, and pick up your bed, and go to your house.” 12 And immediately he stood up, picked up the bed, and went out in front of everyone. So they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this.”

 

Matthew the Tax Collector Called

13 And he went out again beside the sea; and the whole multitude came to him, and he taught them. 14 And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax office, and he told him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him.

 

15 Now it happened, while he was reclining at the table in his house, that many tax collectors and sinners were also reclining with Jesus and his disciples, because there were many who also followed him. 16 And the scribes and the Pharisees seeing him eating with tax collectors and sinners, said to his disciples, “Why does he eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?”

 

17 And Jesus having heard, told them, “Those who are strong have no need of a doctor, but those who are bad off do: I didn't came to call the righteous to change their minds, but sinners.”

 

Jesus is Questioned About Fasting

18 Now the disciples of John and of the Pharisees were fasting: and they came and said to him, “Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples don’t fast?”

 

19 And Jesus told them, “Can the sons of the bride-chamber fast while the bridegroom is with them? They cannot fast as long as they have the bridegroom with them. 20 But the days will come, when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days. 21 And no one sews a piece of unshrunken cloth on an old garment: or else the new piece will pull away from the old, and the tear would be made worse. 22 And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; or else the new wine would burst the wineskins, and the wine would be spilled, and wineskins would be destroyed: but new wine must be put into new wineskins.”

 

Jesus is Lord of the Day of Rest

23 Now it happened, as he was going through the grain fields on the Day of Rest; that his disciples began to pluck the heads of grain as they went. 24 And the Pharisees told him, “Look! Why are they doing that which isn't lawful on the days of Rest?”

 

25 And he told them, “Have you never read what David did, when he had need, and was hungry, he, and those who were with him? 26 How he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and ate the showbread, which isn't lawful for anyone to eat, except for the priests; and he also gave some to those who were with him?”

 

27 And he told them, “The Day of Rest was made for people, and not people for the Day of Rest: 28 Therefore the Son of Man is also Lord of Day of Rest.”

 

Mark 3

 

Jesus Heals on the Day of Rest

1 And he again entered into the synagogue; and there was a man there who had a withered hand. 2 And they were watching him, to see if he would heal him on the Day of Rest; that they might accuse him. 3 And he told the man who had the withered hand, “Stand in our midst.” 4 And he said to them, “Is it lawful to do good on the days of Rest, or to do evil? To save life, or to kill?” But they kept silent. 5 And having looked around at them with anger, being grieved by the hardness of their hearts, he told the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored as whole as the other. 6 And immediately the Pharisees went out and began plotting against him with the supporters of Herod, how they might destroy him.

 

A Great Multitude Follows Jesus

7 And Jesus went out to the sea with his disciples. And a great multitude followed him, from Galilee, and from Judah, 8 And from Jerusalem, and from Idumaea, and from across the Jordan; and those around Tyre and Sidon; a great multitude followed him having heard what great things he was doing. 9 And he told his disciples that a small boat should wait on him because of the multitude, lest they should throng him. 10 Because he had healed so many, that as many as had diseases, pressed upon him to touch him. 11 And unclean spirits, when they saw him, fell down before him, and cried out, saying, “You are God's Son!” 12 And he strictly commanded them that they should not make him known.

 

13 And he went up into the mountain, and called to himself those whom he wanted, and they came to him. 14 And he appointed 12, that they might be with him, and that he might send them out to proclaim the Good News, 15 And to have authority to heal diseases and to cast out demons: 16 Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter, which means Stone); 17 And James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (and he gave them the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder): 18 And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite, 19 And Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. Then they went into a house.

 

A House Divided Cannot Stand

20 And the multitude again came together, so they weren't even able eat bread. 21 And when his family heard about it, they went out to take custody of him, because they were saying, “He's out of his mind.”

 

22 And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He's possessed by Beelzebub, and he casts out demons by the ruler of the demons.”

 

23 And he called them to him, and told them in allegories, “How can Satan cast out Satan? 24 And if a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom isn't able to stand. 25 And if a house is divided against itself, that house isn't able to stand. 26 And if Satan has risen up against himself, and is divided, he isn't able to stand, but he's finished. 27 No one is able to enter into a strong man's house, and plunder his goods, unless he firsts bind the strong man; and then he will plunder his house.

 

The Unpardonable Sin

28 Indeed, I tell you, That all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies with which they have blasphemed; 29 But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven throughout eternity, but is subject to eternal judgment.” 30 (Because they said, “He has an unclean spirit.”)

 

Jesus' Mother and Brothers Send for Him

31 Then his brothers and sisters and his mother came, and standing outside, they sent to him, calling him. 32 And a crowd sat around him, and they told him, “Look, your mother and your brothers and sisters are outside looking for you.”

 

33 And he answered them, saying, “Who is my mother, or my brothers and sisters?” 34 And he looked around in a circle at those who sat around him, and said, “See, here are my mother and my brothers and sisters. 35 Because whoever does God's will, the same is my brother and my sister and mother.”

 

Mark 4

 

The Allegory of the Sower

1 And again he began to teach beside the sea, and a great multitude was gathered to him, so he got into a boat and sat on the sea, and the whole multitude was close to the sea on the land. 2 And he taught them many things in allegories, and said to them in his teaching,

 

3 “Listen, behold, a sower went out to sow. 4 Now indeed it happened, as he was sowing, that some seed fell beside the road; and the birds of the heaven came and devoured it. 5 And some seed fell on rocky ground, where it didn't have much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth: 6 But when the sun had risen, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away. 7 And some seed fell among the thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it produced no crop. 8 And some seed fell into good soil, where it sprouted, grew up, and produced a crop; one 30, and one 60, and one 100 times as much.”

 

9 And he told them, “Whoever has ears to hear, let them listen intently.”

 

The Purpose of Allegories

10 But when he was alone, those around him with the 12 asked him about the allegory. 11 And he told them, “To you it's been given to know the secret mystery of God's Kingdom; but to those who are outside, everything comes in allegories: 12 So that,

 

‘Seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest perhaps they should turn again, and their sins should be forgiven them.' ”

 

The Allegory of the Sower Explained

13 And he said to them, “Don't you perceive this allegory? How then will you understand all the allegories?

 

14 The sower sows the Word. 15 And these are those beside the road where the Word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan comes immediately, and takes away the Word that was sown in their hearts. 16 And these in like manner are those which are sown on rocky ground; who, when they have heard the Word, immediately receive it with joy; 17 Yet they have no root in themselves, and so only endure for a time; then when pressure or persecution arises because of the Word, they immediately are entrapped. 18 And these are the ones sown among thorns; these are those who hear the Word, 19 And the cares of this age, and the deception of riches, and desires for other things entering in, chokes the Word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20 And these are those sown on good ground; who listen intently to the Word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, one 30, one 60, and one 100 times as much.”

 

Light Under a Basket

21 And he said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be placed under a bushel basket, or under a bed? Is it not brought in that it might be set on a lampstand? 22 Because there isn't anything hidden, which won't come to light; nor has anything taken place in secret, but that it should come to the light. 23 If anyone has ears to hear, let them listen intently.”

 

24 And he told them, “Pay attention to what you hear: With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who listen intently, more will be given. 25 Because whoever has, to them more will be given; but whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them.” [Literally, Look at.]

 

The Allegory of the Growing Seed

26 And he said, “This is what God's Kingdom is like: It's as if a man should scatter seed on the earth; 27 And should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed sprouts and grows, though he himself doesn't know how. 28 Because the earth yields crops by itself; first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. 29 But when it yields the fruit, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.”

 

The Allegory of the Mustard Seed

30 And he said, “To what can we liken God's Kingdom? Or with what allegory can we compare it? 31 It's like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it's sown in the earth, is smaller than all the seeds which are on the ground: 32 But when it is sown, it grows up, and becomes greater than all the garden vegetables, and shoots out great branches; so that the birds of the heaven are able to nest under its shade.”

 

Jesus' Use of Allegories

33 And with many such allegories he spoke the Word to them, as they were able to hear. 34 But he didn't speak to them without using an allegory; but when they were alone, he explained everything to his disciples.

 

The Wind and Waves Obey Jesus

35 And on that same day, when evening had come, he told them, “Let's crossover to the other side.” 36 And having dismissed the multitude, they took him along since he was already in the boat. And there were also other small boats with him. 37 And there arose a great wind storm, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already full. 38 And he was in the stern of the boat, sleeping on a pillow: and they woke him, and told him, “Teacher, aren't you concerned that we're going to perish?”

 

39 And having gotten up, he rebuked the wind, and told the sea, “Peace, be still.” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 Then he said to them, “Why are you so fearful? Why don't you have faith?” 41 And they were exceedingly afraid, and said to one another, “What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea listens obediently to him?” [Literally, be muzzled.]

 

Mark 5

 

A Demon Possessed Man Healed

1 And they came to the other side of the sea, to the region of the Gadarenes. 2 And when he had come out of the boat, immediately a man with an unclean spirit came out from the tombs to meet him. 3 He had been dwelling in the tombs; and no one was able to bind him, not even with chains: 4 Because he had often been bound with shackles and chains, and the chains had been pulled apart by him, and the shackles broken in pieces: and no one was able to tame him. 5 And continually, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying out, and cutting himself with stones.

 

6 But when he saw Jesus from far away, he ran and fell down before him, 7 And crying out with a loud voice, he said, “What have I to do with you, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? Swear by God, that you won't torture me!”

 

8 Because he was saying to him, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit.” 9 And he asked him, “What's your name?”

 

And he answered, saying, “My name is Legion: because we are many.” 10 And he pleaded much with him that he would not send them away out of the region. 11 Now there was a large herd of pigs feeding there near to the mountains. 12 And all the demons pleaded with him, saying, “Send us into the pigs, that we may enter into them.” 13 And Jesus immediately gave them permission. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the pigs: and the herd ran violently down a steep cliff into the sea, (now there was about 2,000); and they were drown in the sea.

 

14 And those who fed the pigs ran away, and told it in the city, and in the country. And the people went out to see what it was that had happened. 15 And they come to Jesus, and saw him who had been demon-possessed, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and of a sound mind: and they were afraid. 16 And those who had seen it related to them what had happened to him who was demon-possessed, and also concerning the pigs. 17 And they began pleading with him to go away from their borders.

 

18 And when he had stepped into the boat, the one who had been demon-possessed pleaded with him that he might remain with him. 19 However Jesus didn't permit him, but told him, “Go home, to your own people, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you; and how he has had compassion on you.” 20 And he went away, and began to proclaim in Decapolis what great things Jesus had done for him: and everyone marveled.

 

A Girl Restored to Life and a Woman Healed

21 And when Jesus had crossed over again in the boat to the other side, a great multitude gathered to him; and he was beside the sea. 22 And behold, one of the rulers of the synagogue came, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet, 23 And pleaded earnestly with him, saying, “My little daughter lies at the point of death: come and lay your hands on her, that she may be healed; and she will live.” 24 And he went with him; and a great multitude followed him, and thronged him. [5:22 Literally, much,]

 

25 And a certain woman, who had an issue of blood for 12 years, 26 And had suffered much, under the care of many doctors, and had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse. 27 When she heard about Jesus, she came from behind him in the multitude and touched his clothes. 28 Because she said, “If I may just touch his clothes, I will be healed.”

 

29 And immediately the flow of her blood was dried up, and she knew in her body that she was healed from her affliction. 30 And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that power had gone out from him, turned around in the crowd and said, “Who touched my clothes?”

 

31 But his disciples told him, “You see the multitude pressing against you, and you say, 'Who touched me?' ”

 

32 And he looked around to see her who had done this thing. 33 But the woman being frightened and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him the whole truth. 34 And he told her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction.”

 

35 While he was still speaking, some from the ruler of the synagogue's house came, saying, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?”

 

36 But Jesus, as soon as he heard the word that was spoken, told the ruler of the synagogue, “Don't be afraid, only believe.” 37 And he allowed no one to accompany him, except Peter, and James, and John the brother of James. 38 And he came to the synagogue ruler's house, and saw a great commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. 39 And when he had come in, he told them, “Why are you making such a commotion and weeping? The child isn't dead, but sleeping.”

 

40 And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put everyone out, he took the father and the mother of the child, and those who were with him, and entered into where the child was lying. 41 And having taken the child by the hand, he told her, “Talitha cumi;” which is translated, “Little girl, I say to you, wake up.” 42 And immediately the girl stood up, and walked; for she was 12 years old. And they marveled with amazement. 43 And he instructed them that no one should know about it, and said that she should be given something to eat.

 

Mark 6

 

Jesus Rejected at Nazareth

1 And he went out from there, and came into his hometown; and his disciples followed him. 2 And when the Day of Rest had come, he began to teach in the synagogue; and many hearing him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get these things? And what is this wisdom that has been given to him, that such powerful works are performed through his hands?” 3 “Isn't this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Judas, and Simon? And aren't his sisters here with us?” And they were offended at him. [6:1 Literally, father-land. 6:3 Literally, entrapped in.]

 

4 But Jesus told them, “A prophet isn't without honor, except in his own father's land, and among his own relatives, and in his own household.” 5 And he was unable do any powerful work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people, and healed them. 6 And he marveled because of their unbelief. And he went around the villages in a circle, teaching.

 

Jesus Sends Out the 12 Disciples

7 And he called the 12 to him, and began to send them out two by two; and he gave them authority over unclean spirits; 8 And he instructed them that they should take nothing for the journey, except a walking-stick (no provision bag, no bread, no copper in their money belts), 9 but to wear sandals, and not to put on two coats.

 

10 And he told them, “Wherever you enter into a house, stay there until you go out from there. 11 And as many as will not receive you, nor listen to you, when you leave there, shake off the dust which is under your feet as a testimony against them. Indeed, I tell you, It will be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah on the Day of Judgment, than for that city.”

 

12 And when they went out, they proclaimed that people should change their minds. 13 And they cast out many demons, and they anointed many who were sick with oil, and healed them.

 

John the Baptizer Beheaded

14 And King Herod heard about him; because his name had become well known. And he said, “John the Baptizer has risen from the dead, and because of that these powers are active in him.”

 

15 Others were saying, “He's Elijah!” And others said, “He's the Prophet!” Or “He's like one of the prophets!”

 

16 But when Herod heard, he said, “It's John, whom I have beheaded; he's raised from the dead!” 17 Because Herod himself had sent and seized John, and bound him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife; because he had married her. 18 Because John had told Herod, “It's not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.”

 

19 Therefore Herodias held it against him, and wanted to kill him; but she wasn't able to: 20 Because Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. And when he heard him, he did many things, and he listen to him gladly.

 

21 Then an opportune day came when Herod on his birthday gave a feast for his nobles, the high officers, and the chief men of Galilee. 22 And when Herodias' daughter herself came in, and having danced, and having pleased Herod and those who reclined with him, the king told the girl, “Ask me whatever you want, and I will give it to you.” 23 And he swore to her, “Whatever you ask of me, I will give you, up to half of my kingdom!”

 

24 And when she had gone out, she said to her mother, “What should I ask for?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptizer!”

 

25 And having immediately entered in with haste to the king, she asked, saying, “I want you to give me the head of John the Baptizer on a platter!”

 

26 And although the king was extremely sad; yet because of his oaths and because of those who reclined with him, he didn’t want to refuse her.

 

27 And the king immediately sent an executioner, and commanded his head to be brought: and he went and beheaded him in the prison, 28 And brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl: and the girl gave it to her mother. 29 And when his disciples heard about it, they came and took up his corpse, and laid it in a tomb.

 

The Feeding of the 5,000

30 And the apostles regathered to Jesus and reported to him everything that they had done, and also what they had taught. 31 And he told them, “Come away, to a deserted place to be by yourselves, and rest a while.” (Because so many, were coming and going, that they didn't even have a good time to eat.) 32 And they went away to a deserted place in the boat, by themselves.

 

33 And the multitudes saw them leaving, and they recognized him; so they ran ahead together on foot from all the towns and arrived before them, and they came together to meet him.

 

34 And Jesus, when he had gotten out of the boat, saw a great multitude, and he was moved with compassion toward them, because they were like sheep who had no shepherd: and he began to teach them many things.

 

35 And the hour already being very late, his disciples came to him and said, “This is a desolate place, and the hour is already very late. 36 Send them away, so that they may go into the surrounding region and villages and buy bread for themselves; because they have nothing to eat.”

 

37 But he answering, told them, “You can give them something to eat.”

 

And they said to him, “Should we go and buy 200 denarii worth of bread, and give them something to eat?” [A denarii was equal to a day's wages.]

 

38 He said to them, “How many loaves do you have? Go and see.”

 

And when they knew, they said, “Five, and two fish.”

 

39 Then he instructed them to have everyone recline on the green grass, in groups. 40 And they reclined in groups of hundreds and of fifties. 41 And having taken the five loaves and the two fish, looking up into heaven, he blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to his disciples; that they might set them before them. And he divided the two fish among everyone. 42 And everyone ate, and they were full. 43 And they took up 12 hand-baskets full of the fragments of the bread, and of the fish. 44 And those who ate of the loaves were about 5,000 men. 

Jesus Walks on the Sea

45 And immediately he urged his disciples to get into the boat and to go before him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the multitude. 46 And having told them goodbye, he went away to the mountain to pray. 47 And when evening had come, the boat was in the middle of the sea, and he was alone on the land. 48 And he saw them laboring in rowing; because the wind was against them: then about the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed by them. 49 But when they saw him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost, and cried out: 50 Because they all were disturbed when they saw him. And immediately he talked with them, and told them, “Have courage, don't be afraid!” 51 And he went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased. And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled. 52 Because they did not understand the implications concerning the loaves, because their heart was hardened.

 

Many Touch Him and Are Healed

53 And having crossed over, they came to the land of Gennesaret, and anchored there. 54 And when they got out of the boat, immediately the people recognized him, 55 And running around that whole region, they began carrying those who were sick on beds, to where they had heard he was. 56 And whenever he entered into villages, or towns, or fields, they laid the sick where they had gathered, and they would plead with him that they might at least touch the fringe of his robe. And as many as touched him were healed.

 

Mark 7

 

Defilement Comes From Within

1 Then some of the Pharisees and scribes who had come from Jerusalem gathered around him. 2 And having seen some of his disciples eating bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen hands, they found fault. 3 Because the Pharisees, and all the Jews, do not eat unless they wash their hands with their fist, holding to the tradition of the elders. 4 And when they come from the market place, they do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other things which they have received and hold to, like the washing of cups, and pitchers, copper plates, and couches.
[7:3 Note: poog-may´ is a Greek word that most translations do not translate; but it means, "a clenched fist." So according to this text: in the 1st Century the Jews had a custom, to scrub their hands hard with their fists.]

 

5 Then the Pharisees and scribes questioned him, “Why aren’t your disciples walking according to the tradition of the elders? but eat bread with unwashen hands!”

 

6 He answered and told them, “Isaiah prophesied well about you, pretenders! As it's written,

 

'This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. 7 But they worship me in vain; teaching human commandments as my teachings.'

 

8 Because dismissing God's commandment, you hold to human tradition, such as the washing of pitchers and cups: and  you do many other things like these."

 

9 And he told them, “All too well you set aside God's commandment that you may observe your own traditions. 10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother', and, ‘Whoever speaks evil of their father or mother, let them be put to death.' 11 But you say, 'If a person tells their father or mother, "Whatever you might have benefited from me is Corban" (that is, a gift to God), 12 “You no longer require them to do anything for their father or mother; 13 Making God's Word unauthoritative through your tradition, which you have handed down. And you do many things like this.”

 

14 And having called the whole multitude, he told them, “Everyone listen intently to me and understand. 15 There's nothing outside of a person, which entering into them can defile them. But the things which come out of them, those are the things which defile a person. 16 If anyone has ears to hear, let them listen intently!”

 

17 And when he had entered into the house, away from the multitude, his disciples asked him about the allegory. 18 And he told them, “Are you also without understanding? Don't you understand that nothing which enters a person from outside them can defile them? 19 Because it doesn't enter into their heart, but into the belly, and goes out into the toilet. All foods are clean." 20 And he said, “That which comes out of a person, that defiles a person. 21 Because from within, out of the heart of people, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, sexual immoralities, murders, 22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deception, sensuality, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”

 

A Foreigner Shows Her Faith

24 And he got up and went from there to the borders of Tyre and Sidon. And he entered a house, and he didn't want anyone to know it; but he could not be hidden. 25 Because a woman, whose young daughter had an unclean spirit, heard about him, and came and fell at his feet: 26 The woman was a Greek, a Syrophenician by nationality; and she pleaded with him that he would cast the demon out of her daughter. 27 But Jesus told her, “Let the children be filled first: because it's not good to take the children's bread, and to throw it to the puppies."

 

28 And she answered and said to him, “Yes, Lord; for even the puppies under the table also eat of the children's crumbs.”

 

29 And he told her, “Because of this statement: go home, the demon has gone out of your daughter.”

 

30 And when she had gone to her house, she found the demon had gone out, and her daughter was lying on the bed.

 

Jesus Heals a Deaf-Mute

31 And again, having gone away from the region of Tyre and Sidon, he came through the midst of the region of Decapolis to the Sea of Galilee. 32 And they brought a deaf man who could hardly speak to him; and they pleaded with him to lay his hand on him. 33 And having taken him away from the multitude, he put his fingers into his ears, and having spat, he touched his tongue; 34 And looking up to heaven, he sighed, and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.”

 

35 And instantly his ears were opened, and the band on his tongue was loosed, and he spoke clearly. 36 And he commanded them, that they should not tell anyone. But the more he commanded them, the more exceedingly they proclaimed it; 37 And they were astonished beyond measure, saying, “He has done all things well. He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.”

Mark 8

 

Feeding the 4,000

1 In those days the multitude was very great, and they had nothing to eat, so Jesus called his disciples to him, and told them, 2 “I am moved with compassion on the multitude, because they've already remained with me three days, and have nothing to eat. 3 And if I send them away to their homes without eating, some of them will faint on the way; because they have come from a great distance.”

 

4 And his disciples answered him, “Where would anyone be able to get enough bread here in this desolate place to satisfy these people?”

 

5 And he asked them, “How many loaves do you have?”

 

And they said, “Seven.”

 

6 And he instructed the multitude to recline on the ground. And he took the seven loaves, and having given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; and they set them before the multitude. 7 And they also had a few small fish; and having blessed them, he told them to also set these before them. 8 So they ate and were completely full, and they took up seven baskets of the abundance of leftover fragments. 9 And those who had eaten were about 4,000; and he sent them away. 10 And immediately having entered into the boat with his disciples, he came into the region of Dalmanutha.

 

The Pharisees Seek a Sign

11 And the Pharisees went out and began to dispute with him, seeking a sign from heaven from him, testing him. 12 And he sighed deeply in his spirit, saying, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Indeed, I tell you, why should a sign be given to this generation?” [Literally, if]

 

Beware of the Leaven of the Pharisees and Herod

13 And he left them, and having gotten into the boat again, he went to the other side. 14 But they had forgotten to take bread, except for one loaf which they had in the boat with them. 15 And he instructed them, saying, “See, that you watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and the yeast of Herod!”

 

16 And they bgan reasoning among themselves, saying, “It's because we do have no bread?”

 

17 And Jesus knowing it, said to them, “Why do you reason I said this because you have no bread? Do you not perceive nor understand? Is your heart still hardened? 18 Having eyes, do you not see? And having ears, do you not hear? And don't you remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves among 5,000, how many hand-baskets full of fragments did you take up?”

 

They told him, “Twelve.”

 

20 And when I broke the seven loaves among the 4,000, how many baskets full of fragments did you take up?”

 

And they said, “Seven.”

 

21 And he said to them, “How is it that you don't understand?”

 

A blind Man is Healed

22 And he came to Bethsaida; and they brought a blind man to him, and they pleaded with him to touch him. 23 And taking the blind man by the hand, he led him out of the village; and having spat on his eyes, and having laid his hands on him, he asked him if he saw anything.

 

24 And he looked up, and said, “I see people like trees walking.”

 

25 Then he again laid his hands on his eyes, and made him look up. And he was restored, and saw everyone clearly. 26 And he sent him to his home, saying, “Don't go into the village, nor tell anyone in the village.”

 

Peter Confesses Jesus as the Anointed

27 And Jesus and his disciples went out to the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and on the road he asked his disciples, saying to them, “Who do people say that I am?”

 

28 And they answered, “John the Baptizer; and others, Elijah; but others, one of the prophets.”

 

29 And he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”

 

And Peter answering, told him, “You're the Anointed!”

 

30 And he instructed them that they should tell no one this about him.

 

Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection

31 And he began to teach them, “The Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders, and the chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.” 32 And he spoke this statement plainly. Then Peter having taken him aside, began to rebuke him. 33 But he turning and seeing his disciples, scolded Peter, saying, “Get behind me, Satan. For you're not mindful of the things of God, but the things that concern people.”

 

Take Up the Cross and Follow Me

34 Then having called the multitude to him, along with his disciples, he told them, “Whoever wants to follow me, must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 35 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it; but whoever may lose their life on account of me and the Good News, the same will save it. 36 For what will it benefit a person, if they gain the whole world, but lose their own soul? 37 Or what will a person give in exchange for their soul? 38 For whoever is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of them when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy messengers.” [Note: this passage should be taught more often in our churches; because many in our churches today, act as if they are ashamed of Jesus, because they never tell others about him.]

Mark 9

 

Jesus Transformed on the Mount

1 And he told them, “Indeed, I tell you, There are some standing here who won't taste death until they see God's Kingdom come in power.”

 

2 Then after six days Jesus took Peter and James and John with him, and led them up into a high mountain by themselves. And he was transformed before them, 3 And his clothes became shining, exceedingly white, like snow, such as no launderer on earth is able to whiten. 4 And Elijah appeared to them with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. 5 And in response, Peter told Jesus, “Rabbi, it's good for us to be here. Let's make three tents; one for you, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 6 Because he didn't know what he should say, for they were greatly afraid.

 

7 Then a cloud came, overshadowing them, and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.” 8 And suddenly, having looked around, they no longer saw anyone, only Jesus with them.

 

9 And as they were coming down from the mountain, he instructed them that they were not to tell anyone what they had seen, until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. 10 So they kept this word to themselves, questioning what the rising from the dead meant.

 

11 And they asked him, saying, “Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?”

 

12 And answering, he told them, “Elijah indeed does come first, and restores all things. But why is it written concerning the Son of Man, that he must suffer many things, and be made utterly nothing? 13 But I tell you, Elijah also has come, and they did to him whatever they wished, just as it's written concerning him."

 

Jesus Heals A Boy

14 And when he came to the disciples, he saw a great multitude around them, and the scribes discussing something with them. 15 And immediately all the people seeing him were greatly amazed, and they ran to greet him. 16 And he asked the scribes, “What where you discussing with them?” [Literally, to seek together.]

 

17 Then someone from the crowd answering, said, “Teacher, I brought my son to you, because he has a mute spirit. 18 And wherever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams at the mouth, and gnashes his teeth, and shrivels up. So I asked your disciples to cast him out, but they were not able to.”

 

19 But he answered him, and said, “O unbelieving generation, how long I will be with you? How long I will put up with you? Bring him to me.” 20 And they brought him to him: and seeing him, the spirit immediately threw him into a convulsion, and falling to the ground, he rolled around, foaming at the mouth.

 

21 And he asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” [Literally, How long a time.]

 

And he said, “From childhood. 22 And it has often threw him both into the fire and into the waters, that it might destroy him. But if you're able to do anything, help us, have compassion on us.”

 

23 And Jesus told him, “If you're able to believe, everything is possible for the one who believes.”

 

24 And immediately the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, “Lord, I believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”

 

25 But when Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “Mute and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him, and never enter him again.” 26 And screaming, and throwing him into many convulsions, it came out; and he became as if he were dead. So that many said, “He's dead.” 27 But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he got up.

 

28 And when he had entered into the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why weren't we able to cast it out?”

 

29 And he told them, “This kind can be cast out by nothing except by prayer and fasting."

 

Jesus Again Predicts His Death and Resurrection

30 And they went on from there and passed through Galilee. But he didn't want anyone to know where they were, 31 Because he was teaching his disciples, and he told them, “The Son of Man is going to be surrendered into human hands, and they will kill him; and after being killed, he will rise on the third day.” 32 But they didn't understand this saying, and they were afraid to ask him.

 

Who is the Greatest

33 And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house, he asked them, “What were you discussing among yourselves on the road?” 34 But they were silent, because they had been arguing with one another on the road, which of them was the greatest. 35 And sitting down, he called the 12, and told them, “If anyone wants to be first, they must be last of all, and be the servant of everyone else.” 36 And he took a child and stood him in their midst, and taking him in his arms, he told them, 37 “If anyone receives little children like this, in my name, they receive me. And if anyone receives me, it's not me they receive, but the one who sent me.”

 

Jesus Forbids Sectarianism

38 But John answered him, saying, “Teacher, we saw someone who doesn't follow us, casting out demons in your name; so we tried to stop them, because they do not follow us.” 39 But Jesus said, “Don't stop them. Because there's no one who performs a powerful work in my name, who is able afterward to speak evil of me. 40 For whoever isn't against you, is for you. 41 For if anyone gives you a cup of water to drink in my name, because you belong to Christ; Indeed, I tell you, they will by no means lose their reward.

 

Jesus Warns of Offenses

42 And whoever causes one of these little ones, who believes in me, to fall; it would have been better for them if a millstone had been hung around their neck, and they had been thrown into the sea. 43 And if your hand causes you to fall, cut it off. For it's better for you to enter into life maimed, rather than having two hands to go into Gehenna, into the unquenchable fire: 44 Where their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched. [Literally, a trip stick (bent sapling), a snare)

 

45 And if your foot causes you to fall, cut it off. It's better for you to enter into life lame, rather than having two feet to be thrown into Gehenna, into the  unquenchable fire: 46 Where their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.

 

47 And if your eye causes you to fall, gouge it out. It's better for you to enter into God's Kingdom with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be thrown into the fire of Gehenna: 48 Where their worm doesn't die, and the fire is not quenched.

 

Tasteless Salt is Worthless

49 Because everyone will be salted with fire, and every sacrifice will be salted with salt. 50 Salt is good; but if the salt becomes unsalty, with what will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.” [Note: The salt of that day wasn't pure salt, it was mixed with other minerals from the earth.]

 
Mark 10

 

Marriage and Divorce

1 And he got up and went from there and came into the region of Judah by the other side of the Jordan River. And again multitudes gathered around him, and as usual he again began to teach them.

 

2 And the Pharisees came to him to test him, and asked him, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?"

 

3 But he answering, said to them, “What did Moses command you?”

 

4 And they said, "Moses allowed a man to write a divorce certificate, and be free of her."

 

5 But Jesus answering, told them, “He wrote this commandment for you because of the hardness of your heart. 6  But from the beginning of the creation, God ‘made them male and female. 7 For this reason a man is to leave his father and mother and to be united with his wife, 8 And the two will become one flesh.' So they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9 Therefore what God has joined together, let no human separate.” [10:7 Literally, glued to. 10:9 Literally, yoked.]

 

10 And in the house, his disciples again asked him about the same thing. 11 And he told them, “Whoever divorces his wife, and marries another, commits adultery against her. 12 And if a woman divorces her husband, and marries another, she commits adultery.”

 

Jesus Blesses Little Children

13 And they brought young children to him, that he might touch them: but his disciples scolded those who brought them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, he was very displeased, and told them, “Let the little children come to me, and don't hinder them: because God's Kingdom belongs to such as these. 15 Indeed, I tell you, Whoever doesn't receive God's Kingdom like a little child, will by no means enter into it." 16 And having taken them up in his arms, and laying his hands on them, he blessed them. [Literally, is.]

 

Jesus Counsels the Rich Young Ruler

17 And as he was setting out on a journey, a man ran up to him, and kneeling down before him, asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”

 

18 But Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good, except for one, God. 19 You know the commandments, ‘Don't commit adultery', ‘Don't commit murder', ‘Don't steal', ‘Don't give false testimony', ‘Don't defraud anyone,' ‘Honor your father and mother'.”

 

20 But he answering, told him, “Teacher, I have observed all these from my youth.”

 

21 Then Jesus looking at him loved him, and told him, “You lack one thing: Go, sell whatever you have, and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in Heaven. Then come, take up the cross, and follow me.”

 

22 And his countenance became very gloomy at that statement, and went away distressed; because he had many possessions.

 [I wonder if this young man, might have been the young Apostle Paul?]

 

All things Are Possible With God

23 And Jesus looking around, told his disciples, “How difficult it is for those who have wealth to enter into God's Kingdom!” 24 And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answering again, told them, “Children, how difficult it is for those who trust in wealth to enter into God's Kingdom. 25 It's easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a wealthy person to enter into God's Kingdom.”

 

26 And they were exceedingly astonished, saying among themselves, “Then who is able be saved?”

 

27 But Jesus looking at them said, “With people this is impossible, but not with God; because all things are possible with God.”

 

28 Then Peter began to say to him, “See, we've left everything, and have followed you.”

 

29 But Jesus answering, said, “Indeed, I tell you, There is no one who has left house, or brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, on account of me and on account of the Good News, 30 Who will not receive 100 times as much now in this present time, houses, and brothers, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, along with persecutions; and in the age to come eternal life. 31 But many who are first, will be last; and the last, first.”

 

Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection Third Time

32 And they were on the road going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus was taking the lead ahead of them: and they were astonished; and as they followed him, they were afraid. And he again took the 12 aside and told them what was going to happen to him, 33 “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem; and the Son of Man will be delivered to the chief priests, and to the scribes; and they will condemn him to death, and will deliver him to the nations: 34 And they will mock him, and will flog him, and will spit upon him, and will kill him: and on the third day he will rise again.”

 

Greatness is Serving

35 And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, come to him, saying, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask.”

 

36 And he said to them, “What do you want me to do for you?”

 

37 And they told him, “Grant that one of us may sit on your right side, and one on your left side, in your glory.”

 

38 But Jesus told them, “You don't know what you're asking: Are you able to drink of the cup which I drink? And be baptized with the baptism which I am baptized with?”

 

39 And they told him, “We are able.”

 

But Jesus told them, “Indeed you will drink of the cup which I drink; and you will be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: 40 But to sit on my right side and on my left side is not mine to give; but it is reserved for those for whom it has been prepared.”

 

41 And the 10 having heard this, began to be greatly displeased with James and John. 42 But Jesus having called them to himself, told them, “You know that those who are considered rulers over the nations, exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority over them. 43 But it is not be so among you: but whoever desires to be great among you, is to be your servant; 44 And whoever wants to be first among you, is to be the servant of everyone else. 45 Because even the Son of Man didn't come to be served; but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

 

Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus

46 Then they came to Jericho. And as he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great multitude, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, was sitting beside the road, begging. 47 And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began shouting and saying, “Jesus, Son of David, have compassion on me!”

 

48 And many rebuked him, so that he would be quite. But he shouted all the more, “Jesus, Son of David, have compassion on me!”

 

49 And Jesus stood still, and said, “Call him.”

 

And they called the blind man, telling him, “Have courage; get up, he's calling for you!”

 

50 And throwing off his cloak, he stood up and came to Jesus. 51 And Jesus answering, said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?”

 

And the blind man told him, “Rabboni (Teacher), that I may receive sight.”

 

52 And Jesus told him, “Be on your way, your faith has saved you.” And instantly he received his sight, and followed Jesus on the road.

 

Mark 11

 

The Triumphal Entry

1 And when they came near Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples; 2 And he told them, “Go into the village that is opposite you; and as soon as you have entered it you'll find a young donkey tied, on which no person has ever sat; untie him, and bring him. 3 And if anyone says to you, 'Why are you doing this?' say, 'Because his Lord has need of him,' and he will immediately send him here.”

 

4 And they went, and they found the young donkey tied by the door outside, by the fork in the road. And they untied him. 5 And some of those standing there said to them, “What are you doing, untying the young donkey?”

 

6 And they told them just as Jesus had instructed them: and they let them. 7 And they brought the young donkey to Jesus: and they threw their coats on him; and he sat on him. 8 And many spread their coats on the road, and others were cutting palm branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 And those who went before and those who followed after were shouting,

 

“Hosanna! (Save us!) ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’ 10 Blessed is the Kingdom of our father David that comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!”

 

11 And Jesus entered into Jerusalem, and into the temple. And having looked around at everything, the hour already being late, he went out to Bethany with the 12.

 

The Fig Tree Withered

12 Now the next day, after going out from Bethany, he was hungry. 13 And seeing a fig tree (having leaves) from a distance, he went to find out if perhaps it had anything on it. And having come to it, he found nothing except leaves, because it wasn't the season for figs. 14 And in response, Jesus said to it, “May no one eat fruit from you throughout eternity.” And his disciples heard it. [Literally, into the [eternal] age.]

 

Jesus' Cleanses the Temple

15 And they came into Jerusalem. And Jesus having entered into the temple, began to drive out those selling and buying in the temple, and he overthrew the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold doves. 16 And he wouldn't allow anyone to carry wares through the temple. 17 And he taught them, saying, “Is it not written, ‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations'? But you have made it ‘a den of thieves!’” 18 And the scribes and chief priests heard it, and sought how they might destroy him: because they feared him, because all the people were astonished by his teaching. 19 And when evening had come, he went out of the city.

 

The Lesson of the Fig Tree

20 And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. 21 And Peter, remembering, said to him, “Rabbi, look, the fig tree which you cursed has dried up!”

 

22 And Jesus answering, told them, “Have the faith of God. 23 Because indeed, I tell you, Whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up, and be thrown into the sea;' and doesn't doubt in their heart, but believes that those things which they say will happen; whatever they say will be. 24 For this reason, I tell you, believe that you receive whatever you ask in prayer, and they will be so yours.

 

Forgiveness and Prayer

25 And when you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone: so that your Father who is in the heavens may also forgive your offenses. 26 But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father who is in the heavens forgive your offenses.”

 

Jesus’ Authority Questioned

27 Then they again came into Jerusalem. And as he was walking around in the temple, the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders came to him. 28 And said to him, “By what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you the authority to do these things?”

 

29 But Jesus answering, told them, “I will also ask you one question; then answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things: 30 The baptism of John, was it from Heaven, or of human origin? Answer me.”

 

31 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From Heaven', he will say, 'Then why didn't you believe him?' 32 But if we say, 'Of human origin'..." (They feared the people, because everyone held that John really was a prophet.) 33 Then answering, they told Jesus, “We don't know.”

 

And Jesus answering, told them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.”

Mark 12

 

The Allegory of the Wicked Farmers

1 And he began to speak to them in allegories. “A certain man planted a vineyard, and placed a fence around it, and dug a place for the winepress, and built a tower, and leased it out to farmers, and he traveled abroad. 2 Then at the time of harvest, he sent a servant to the farmers, that he might receive some of the fruit of the vineyard from the farmers. 3 But they grabbed him, and beat him, and sent him away empty-handed. 4 Then he again sent another to them; and they threw rocks at him, striking him on the head, and sent him away shamefully treated. 5 And he again sent another; and they killed him; also many others, beating some, and killing some. 6 Then still having one, his own beloved son, he also sent him to them lastly, saying, ‘They will respect my son.' 7 But those farmers said among themselves, 'This is the heir. Come, let's kill him, and the inheritance will be ours!' 8 And having taken him, they killed him, and threw him outside of the vineyard. 9 Therefore what will the lord of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy those farmers, and will give the vineyard to others."

 

10 "Haven't you ever read this Scripture, ‘The stone which the builders rejected, has become the head of the corner. 11 This was the Lord's doing, and it is wonderful in our eyes'?”

 

12 And they sought for a way to arrest him, because they perceived that he had spoken this allegory against them; but they feared the people, so they left him and went away.

 

The Pharisees: Is it Lawful to Pay Taxes to Caesar?

13 Then they send some of the Pharisees and the supporters of Herod to him, that they might catch him in a discourse. 14 And when they had come, they said to him, “Teacher, we know you are truthful, and you don't care about what anyone thinks, because your don't look on person's outward appearance; but teach the way of God truthfully. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? 15 Should we pay, or should we not pay?” [Literally, give.]

 

But he, knowing their hypocrisy, told them, “Why do you test me? Bring me a denarius that I may see it." 16 So they brought it.

 

And he said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?” They told him, “Caesars.”

 

17 And answering, Jesus told them, “Give Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and give God the things which are God's.” And they marveled at him.

 

The Sadducees: What About the Resurrection?

18 Then the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to him. And they asked him, saying, 19 “Teacher, Moses wrote to us, that if a man's brother dies, and leaves his wife behind, but leaves no children, that his brother is to take his wife in marriage, and raise up seed for his brother. 20 Now there were seven brothers: and the first took a wife, and when he died, he left no seed. 21 Then the second took her, and died, and neither did he leave any seed: and the third likewise. 22 And the seven took her as a wife, and left no seed: last of all the woman also died. 23 So in the resurrection, when they rise, whose wife will she be? Because all seven had her as a wife."

 

24 And answering, Jesus told them, "Is not this the reason you go astray: because you do not know the Scriptures nor the power of God? 25 For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry, nor are given in marriage; but are like the messengers in the heavens. 26 But concerning the dead, that they rise, have you not read in the book of Moses, in the passage on the burning bush, how God spoke to him, saying, 'I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob'? 27 He is not the God of the dead, but God of the living: therefore you are greatly misguided." [Literally, to roam away from.]

 

The scribes: Which is the First Commandment of All?

28 Then one of the scribes having came up, having heard them reasoning together, perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, “Which is the foremost commandment of all?”

 

29 And Jesus answered him, "The foremost of all the commandments is, ‘Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: 30 And you're to love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your might:' this is the foremost commandment. 31 And the second like it is this: ‘You're to love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these."

 

32 And the scribe said to him, “Beautifully said, Teacher! You have spoken the truth: because there is one God, and there is no other besides him. 33 And to love him with all your heart, and with all your understanding, and with all your soul, and with all your might; and to love your neighbor as yourself, is more than all the burnt offerings and sacrifices.”

 

34 And when Jesus saw that he answered in a thoughtful way, he told him, “You’re not far from God's Kingdom.”

 

And from then on, no one dared to ask him any more questions.

 

How Can David Call His Descendant Lord?

35 Then Jesus answering, as he taught in the temple, said, “How can the scribes say that the Anointed is David’s son? 36 For David himself said in the Holy Spirit,

 

‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right side, until I place your enemies as a footstool under your feet.”'

 

37 Since David himself calls him ‘Lord’; then how can he be his Son?”

 

And the great multitude listened to him gladly.

 

Beware of the scribes

38 And he told them in his teaching, "Observe the scribes, how they like to walk around in long robes, and greetings in the marketplaces, 39 And the first seats in the synagogues and the first places at the feasts: 40 Yet they devour widows' houses, and for a pretense make long prayers: these will receive judgment beyond measure!"

 

The Widow's Two Mites

41 And Jesus having sat down opposite the treasury, was watching how the crowd tossed money into the treasury; and many who were rich were tossing in much. 42 Then one poor widow came, and she tossed in two little coins, which make a quadrans. 43 And having called his disciples to him, he told them, “Indeed, I tell you, That this poor widow has tossed in more, than all those who have tossed offerings into the treasury: 44 For they all tossed in out of their abundance, but she, out of her poverty, tossed in all that she had, everything she had to live on.”

Mark 13

 

Jesus Predicts the Destruction of the Temple

1 And as he was leaving the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Teacher, look at what great stones and what great buildings are here!”

 

2 And answering, Jesus told him, “Do you see these great buildings? There will not be left, a stone upon a stone, which will not be thrown down.”

 

The Signs of the Times and the End of the Age

3 And as he was sitting on the mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately, 4 “Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign when all of these things are about to be fulfilled?”

 

5 And Jesus answering them began to say, “Watch out, lest you should be lead astray: 6 Because many will come in my name, saying, 'I am he'; and many will be lead astray. 7 But when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed; for these things must happen, but the end is not yet. 8 For will rise up nation against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there will be earthquakes in various  places, and there will be famines and disturbing things: these are the beginning of birth pains. [Literally, upon.]

 

9 But watch out for yourselves: for they will deliver you up to councils, and you will be beaten in their places of assembly. And you will stand before leaders and dictators on account of me, resulting in an opportunity to testimony to them. 10 But the Good News must first be proclaimed to all the nations. 11 But when they lead you away and hand you over, don’t worry beforehand as to what you are to say, nor premeditate what to say, but speak whatever is given to you in that hour; because it's not you who are speaking, but the Holy Spirit. 12 But brother will betray brother to death, and the father the son; and children will rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. 13 And you will be hated by everyone on account of my name, but the one who endures to the end will be saved. [13:9 Or, kings. i.e. one who has absolute authority. 13:10 Or, races.]

 

The Great Tribulation

14 But when you see the abomination of desolation, which was spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it should not, (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judah flee to the mountains: 15 And let not the one who is on the housetop come down into the house, nor go in to take anything out of their house. 16 And let the one who is in the field not go back to get their shirt. 17 But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing in those days. 18 And pray that your flight may not be in the winter. 19 For those days will be a time of intense pressure, such as there has not been the like from the beginning of creation which God created until now, and will never be again. 20 And if the Lord had not shortened those days, no flesh would survive: but for the sake of the chosen, whom he has chosen, he has shortened the days. [13:16 Literally, robe. 13:20 Or, be saved.]

 

21 And then if anyone tells you, ‘Look, the Anointed is here!' or, ‘Look, he's there!' Don't believe it! 22 Because false christs and false prophets will arise, and they will give signs and wonders to lead astray, if possible, even the chosen. 23 So you must watch out! See, I have told you everything in advance.

 

The Coming of the Son of Man

24 But in those days, after that time of intense pressure, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give her light, 25 And the stars of heaven will fall, and the powers which are in the heavens will be shaken: 26 And then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory; 27 And then he will send out his messengers, and will gather his chosen together from the four winds, from the uttermost part of the earth to the uttermost part of heaven.

 

The Allegory of the Fig Tree

28 Now learn the allegory from the fig tree: When its branch have become tender, and put forth leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 So you also, when you see these things happening, know that the time is near, even at the doors. 30 Indeed, I tell you, That generation will not pass, until all of these things take place. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

 

No One Knows the Day or Hour

32 But concerning the exact day and hour no one knows (not even the messengers in heaven, nor the Son), no one except the Father. 33 Be watching, stay awake, and pray: because you don't know when that time is. 34 It's like a man going to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each one their own task, and he instructed the doorkeeper to keep watch. 35 Therefore stay awake, because you do not know when the master of the house will return—in the evening, or at midnight, or at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning—36 Lest coming suddenly he finds you sleeping. 37 And what I say to you, I say to everyone, Watch!”

 

Mark 14

 

The Plot to Kill Jesus

1 Now, it was two days before the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, and the chief priests and the scribes where seeking how they might take him by trickery and put him to death. 2 But they said, “Not during the feast, lest there be a major disturbance among the people.”

 

The Anointing at Bethany

3 And he was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, and as he was reclining at the table, a woman came having an alabaster flask of extremely expensive pure nard oil. Then she broke the flask and poured it on his head. 4 But some were indignant among themselves, and said, “Why was this fragrant oil wasted? 5 For it could have been sold for more than 300 denarii, and been given to the poor.” And they criticized her sharply. [A denarii was equal to a day's wages.]

 

6 But Jesus said, "Leave her alone! Why are you cutting her with your words? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 7 Because you will always have the poor with you, and whenever you want you're able do them good: but you won't always have me. 8 She has done what she could; she has come in advance to anoint my body for burial. 9 Indeed, I tell you, Wherever this Good News will be proclaimed, in the whole world, what she has done will also be spoken of as a memorial to her.”

 

Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus

10 Then Judas Iscariot, one of the 12, went to the chief priests, to betray him to them. 11 And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him silver coins. And he sought how he might conveniently betray him.

 

12 And on the first day of Unleavened Bread, when they sacrifice the Passover lamb, his disciples asked him, “Where do you want us to go and prepare the Passover, so that you may eat it?”

 

13 And he sent two of his disciples, and told them, "Go into the city, and a man will meet you carrying a pitcher of water; follow him: 14 And wherever he may enter, say to head of the household, ‘The Teacher says, “Where is the guest room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?”' 15 And he will show you a large upper room furnished and prepared: make ready for us there.”

 

16 And his disciples went away, and came into the city, and found it just as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover.

 

17 And when it was evening, he came with the twelve. 18 And as they were reclining at the table and were eating, Jesus said, “Indeed, I tell you, That one of you who is eating with me, will betray me.”

 

19 And they began to be distressed, and to say to him one by one, “Surely not I?” And another, “Surely not I?”

 

20 And answering, he told them, "He's one of the 12, who dips in the dish with me. 21 Indeed, the Son of Man is to be lead away, just as it's written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed. It would have been better for that man if he had never been born.”

 

Jesus Institutes the Lord's Supper

22 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and having blessed it, he broke it, and gave it to them, and said, “Take, eat: this is my body.”

 

23 And having taken the cup, after giving thanks, he gave it to them: and they all drank of it.

 

24 And he told them, “This is my blood of the New Covenant, which is poured out for many. 25 Indeed, I tell you, I will no longer drink of the fruit of the vine, until the day when I drink it anew in God's Kingdom.”

 

26 And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the mount of Olives.

 

27 And Jesus told them, "All of you will be tripped up because of me on this night: because it's written, [Or, entrapped.]

 

‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.'

 

28 But after I have risen, I will go before you into Galilee.”

 

29 But Peter told him, “Even if all are tripped up, yet I will not be.”

 

30 But Jesus told him, “Indeed, I tell you, that this day, even in this night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.”

 

31 But he said all the more emphatically, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you.” And they all said likewise.

 

Jesus Prays in the Garden

32 And they came to a place which is named Gethsemane; and he told his disciples, “Sit down here, while I pray.” 33 And he took Peter and James and John with him, and began to be greatly overwhelmed and deeply distressed, 34 And he told them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even unto death. Stay here and keep watch.”

 

35 And having gone a little farther, he fell on the ground, and prayed that if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. 36 And he said, "Daddy, Father, all things are possible for you. Take this cup away from me; nevertheless, not what I desire, but what you desire.”

 

37 And he came, and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, “Simon, are you sleeping? Couldn't you watch one hour? 38 Watch and pray, that you may not enter into temptation and testing. Indeed the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

 

39 And again he went away, and prayed, saying the same words. 40 And when he returned, he again found them sleeping (because their eyes were heavy), and they didn't know what to answer him.

 

41 And he came the third time, and told them, “Sleep on now, and take your rest.”

 

“It's enough, the hour has come. Behold, the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42 Get up, let's go.  See, the one who is betraying me is near.”

 

Betrayal and Arrest in the Garden

43 And immediately, while he was still speaking, Judas arrived, being one of the 12, and with him a great multitude with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 44 Now his betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “Whomever I kiss, he's the one; seize him and lead him away safely.”

 

45 And having come, he immediately came up to him, saying, “Rabbi, Rabbi!” And he kissed him.

 

46 And they laid their hands on him, and seized him. 47 But one of those standing by, drawing his sword, struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.

 

48 And Jesus answering, said to them, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me? 49 I was with you daily in the temple teaching, and you didn't seize me. But this has happened that the Scriptures would be fulfilled.”

 

50 Then everyone deserted him, and fled.

 

A Young Man Flees Naked

51 Now a certain young man was following him, having a linen cloth thrown around his naked body; and the young men seized him, 52 But he left the linen cloth behind, and fled away from them naked.

 

Jesus Faces the Sanhedrin

53 And they led Jesus away to the high priest. And all of the chief priests, and the elders, and the scribes gathered around him. 54 But Peter followed him from a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest, and he was sitting together with the servants and warming himself by the light of the fire.

 

55 And the chief priests and the whole council were seeking testimony against Jesus, in order to put him to death, but found none. 56 (For many were testifying falsely against him, but their testimonies didn't agree.)

 

57 Then some stood up and testified falsely against him, saying, 58 “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.'” 59 (Yet even then their testimony didn't agree.)

 

60 And the high priest having stood up in their midst, questioned Jesus, saying, “Do you answer nothing? Concerning what they are testifying against you?” 61 But he kept silent and answered nothing.

 

The high priest again questioned him, and said to him, “Are you the Anointed, the Son of the One who is to be adored with praise?”

 

62 And Jesus said, “I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right side of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.”

 

63 Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “What need do we have of any more witnesses? 64 You have heard the blasphemy! How does it appear to you?”

 

And they all condemned him to be deserving of death.

 

65 And some of them began to spit on him, and they blindfolded him, and struck him with their fists, and said to him, “Prophesy!” And the servants slapped him with the palms of their hands.

 

Peter Denies Jesus, and Weeps

66 Now Peter was below in the courtyard, and one of the servant girls of the high priest came: 67 And seeing Peter warming himself, she looked intently at him, and said, “You were with Jesus of Nazareth!”

 

68 But he denied him, saying, “I don't know him, nor do I understand what you're talking about.” And he went out on the porch, and a rooster crowed.

 

69 And the servant girl saw him again, and began to say to those who stood by, “He's one of them!” 70 And he denied Jesus again.

 

And a little later those standing by, said to Peter again, “Truly you are one of them! Because you're also a Galilean, for your manner of speech resembles theirs!”

 

71 But he began to curse and to swear, saying, “I do not know this man of whom you speak!”

 

72 And a rooster crowed for a second time. Then Peter remembered the word that Jesus had spoken to him, “Before a rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And as he thought on it, he began to weep loudly.

 

Mark 15

 

Jesus Faces Pilate

1 And immediately, in the morning, the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council; and having bound Jesus, they carried him away, and delivered him to Pilate. 2 And Pilate questioned him, "Are you the King of the Jews?"

 

And answering he told him, “You have said it.”

 

3 And the chief priests accused him of many things. 4 Then Pilate questioned him again, saying, "Do you answer nothing? See how many things they are testifying against you." 5 But Jesus no longer answered anything, therefore Pilate marveled.

 

Jesus Takes the Place of Barabbas

6 Now at the feast he used to release one prisoner to them, whomever they requested. 7 And there was one named Barabbas, who was chained with his fellow rebels; they had committed murder in the rebellion. 8 And the crowd began crying out, asking him to do as he had always done for them. 9 But Pilate answered them, saying, “Do you want me to release the King of the Jews to you?” 10 Because he knew that the chief priests had handed him over because of envy.

 

11 But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have him release Barabbas instead. 12 Then Pilate answering again said to them, “Then what do you want me to do with him whom you call the King of the Jews?"

 

13 And they again cried out, “Crucify him!”

 

14 Then Pilate said to them, “Why? What evil has he done?” But they cried out much more exceedingly, “Crucify him!”

 

15 And Pilate, wanting to satisfy the crowd, released Barabbas to them; and having flogged him, he delivered Jesus up, that he might be crucified.

 

The Soldiers Mock Jesus

16 Then the soldiers led him away into the courtyard, which is called the Praetorium, and they assembled the whole garrison. 17 And they put a purple robe on him; and twisting a crown of thorns, they placed it on his head, 18 And they began to embrace him, saying, “Be of good cheer, O King of the Jews!” 19 And they struck him on the head with a reed, and spat on him, and bending their knees they worshipped him. 20 And when they had mocked him, they took the purple robe off him, and put his own clothes on him, and they led him out to crucify him.

 

The King on a Cross

21 And they forced a bypasser into service, Simon a Cyrenian (the father of Alexander and Rufus), as he was coming in from the country, to carry his cross. 22 And they brought him to the place called Golgotha (which is translated, “Place of a Skull”). 23 And they gave him wine that was medicated with myrrh to drink, but he didn't take it. 24 And they crucified him, and divided up his clothes among themselves, casting lots on them to determine what each man should take.

 

25 And it was the third hour when they crucified him. 26 And an inscription of the charge against him was written above him,

 

THE KING OF THE JEWS

 

27 And they crucify two thieves with him; the one at his right side, and the other on his left. 28 And the scripture was fulfilled which states, “And he was numbered with the lawless.”

 

29 And those who passed by blasphemed him, shaking their heads and saying, “Aha! You who would destroy the temple and build it in three days, 30 Save yourself, and come down from the cross!”

 

31 Likewise also the chief priests with the scribes mockingly said among themselves, “He saved others, but he wasn't able to save himself." 32 "Let the Anointed, the King of Israel, come down now from the cross, that we may see and believe.”

 

Even those who were crucified with him also taunted him.

 

Jesus Dies on the Cross

33 And when the sixth hour had come, darkness came over the whole land, until the ninth hour. 34 And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” (which is translated, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”)

 

35 And some of those who stood by, when they heard it, said, “Look, he's calling for Elijah!” 36 And someone ran and filled a sponge with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him a drink, saying,  “Let's see if Elijah comes to take him down.”

 

37 And Jesus crying out with a loud voice, released his spirit.

 

38 And the curtain in the temple was torn in two, from the top to the bottom. 39 And when the centurion who stood opposite him saw how he had cried out and released his spirit, he said, “Truly this man was God's Son.”

 

40 And there were also women watching from a distance. Among them was also Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome; 41 These women had also followed him and served him while he was in Galilee, and many other women who came up with him to Jerusalem.

 

Jesus Buried in Joseph's Tomb

42 And when evening had already come, since it was the preparation day, that is, the day before the Day of Rest, 43 Joseph of Arimathea, an honorable Council member, who himself was also waiting for God's Kingdom, boldly went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. 44 And Pilate wondered if he was already dead: so he called the centurion and asked him if he had been dead for some time. 45 And knowing from the centurion that he was dead, he granted the body to Joseph. 46 And he went to the market and bought a linen sheet, and taking him down, wrapped him in the linen sheet, and laid him in a tomb, which had been cut out of the rock. And he rolled a stone on the entrance of the tomb. 47 And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where he was laid. 

 

Mark 16

 

He is Risen

1 And when the Day of Rest was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, went to the market to buy fragrant spices, so that they could go and anoint the body of Jesus. 2 And very early on the first day of the week they came to the tomb, after the sun had risen. 3 And they were saying among themselves, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb for us?” 4 (For it was very large stone.) But when they looked up, they saw that the stone had been rolled away. 5 And having entered into the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white robe; and they were utterly astonished.

 

6 But he told them, “Don't be utterly astonished. You’re looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen, he's not here. See the place where they laid him. 7 But go, tell his disciples, and Peter, that he is going before you into Galilee; and you will see him there, just as he told you.”

 

8 And going out quickly, they fled from the tomb; because trembling and amazement had seized them. And they said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid.  

 

Mary Magdalene Sees the Risen Lord

9 Now after Jesus had risen early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven demons. 10 And she went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept. 11 When they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they refused to believe it.

 

Jesus Appears to Two Disciples

12 But after these things, he appeared in another form to two of them, as they were walking and going into the country. 13 They likewise went and told the rest, but they didn't believe them either.

 

The Great Commission

14 Afterwards he appeared to the eleven  as they were reclining at the dinner table, and he scolded them for their disbelief and hardness of heart, because they didn't believe those who saw him after he had risen. 15 And he told them, “Go into the whole world, and proclaim the Good News to every creature. 16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; but whoever doesn't believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will follow those who believe; In my name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 They will pick up snakes; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means harm them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

 

Jesus Ascends to God's Right Hand

19 Therefore indeed, after the Lord had spoken to them, he was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right side of God; 20 And they went out, and heralded the Good News everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following.

 

Amen! (Indeed!)