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What Does Mark 16:17-18 Mean?

Published in Biblical Interpretation 3 mins read

Mark 16:17-18 refers to a passage in the New Testament of the Christian Bible, specifically the Gospel of Mark, which describes several "signs" that will accompany those who believe. For some religious groups, these verses are interpreted literally, particularly regarding the handling of serpents.

Understanding Mark 16:17-18 in the Bible

This passage is part of what is often called the "Longer Ending of Mark" (Mark 16:9-20), which describes Jesus' post-resurrection appearances and instructions to His disciples before His ascension. The verses in question, Mark 16:17 and 18, state:

"And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well."
Mark 16:17-18 (NIV)

Literal Interpretation: The Practice of Serpent Handling

Certain Christian groups, primarily found in Appalachia and parts of the southeastern United States, interpret Mark 16:17-18 very literally. Their understanding is that Jesus was issuing a direct command or promise that true believers would be able to handle venomous snakes and even drink deadly poisons without harm.

  • Demonstration of Faith: For these believers, literally "taking up serpents" is seen as a tangible demonstration of their unwavering faith and a testament to God's protective power. They believe that if they are truly filled with the Holy Spirit and have sufficient faith, God will shield them from any harm, fulfilling the words of Jesus.
  • Adherence to Scripture: These groups view the verses not as metaphorical language, but as clear instructions for believers to live out. The practice of handling snakes is a direct response to this literal interpretation of the scripture.

The practice of handling serpents is thus seen as a direct way to demonstrate the strength of their belief and obedience to what they understand as Jesus' words.

Key Aspects of the Interpretation

Here's a breakdown of the specific "signs" mentioned in Mark 16:17-18 and their literal interpretation by some groups:

Sign Described in Mark 16:17-18 Literal Interpretation by Some Groups
Casting out demons Actively engaging in spiritual warfare by expelling evil spirits from individuals.
Speaking in new tongues The supernatural ability to speak in languages unknown to the speaker, believed to be a divine endowment.
Taking up serpents Physically handling venomous snakes, such as rattlesnakes or copperheads, without suffering bites or harm, as a sign of divine protection.
Drinking deadly poison Consuming harmful substances without experiencing illness or death, also understood as a proof of God's miraculous intervention.
Laying hands on the sick The act of praying for and touching the ill, believing it will lead to miraculous healing.

These practices are central to the worship services of these specific denominations, serving as tangible expressions of their faith and commitment to the literal interpretation of the biblical text.