By Robert E. Jackson, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile
Lives
Mark 15:42–47; 16:1–8
Buried (15:42–47)
It was evening. Darkness came upon the land. Jesus let out a loud cry and drew His last breath. The Messiah, the promised hope for all the nations, absorbed the bitter suffering we deserve and willingly gave His life in our place. Put simply, Jesus paid the penalty for our sins on the cross.
Romans would often discard the crucified in places where the bodies were exposed to both the elements and wild animals. It was risky and even dangerous for followers or friends to ask for the corpse of one who was crucified. Romans would view such persons as “supporters” of an enemy of Rome.
Therefore the disciples and the women were not bold enough to ask for Jesus’ body. But not so with Joseph of Arimathea. Even though he was a wealthy and respected council member with much to lose he approached Pilate for permission to bury Jesus.
The amazing power of Christ so touched a Sanhedrin member that he took the responsibility to take our Lord off the cross, wrap Him in fine linen and place Him in a new tomb. Jesus is buried. All hope seems to be gone. And the stone is rolled over the entrance to the tomb as Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joseph watch.
Grieved (16:1–4)
The last section ended in evening, darkness and death. Chapter 16 begins with light. The Sabbath is over and the sun rises to awaken everything from its nightly slumber. Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Salome lead the way to the tomb with spices. We can only imagine the raw grief they feel.
They have no idea how they can roll away the massive stone but they go nonetheless. Motivated by love these women desire to anoint their Lord one last time. They come to the tomb without hope, still living in the “darkness” of Friday and the crucifixion. When they arrive at the burial site they are amazed; the stone is rolled away.
Soon they realize this day is the dawning of the new beginning for all of humanity. Looking to Scripture we understand “weeping may remain for a night but rejoicing comes in the morning” (Pss. 30:5; 59:16; 90:14; 143:8). Yes, the sun was rising. The tomb was empty. Jesus’ resurrection brings light and hope to His followers in their grief both then and now.
Resurrected (16:5–8)
Mark’s Gospel began with God’s messenger announcing what God was about to do (1:2–8) and now it closes with God’s messenger announcing what God has done. The angel explains the meaning of the empty tomb: Jesus is risen! He also directs the women to tell His disciples and Peter to go to Galilee where they will see the resurrected Christ.
God was moving the disciples to a new realm where the kingdom of God will not be limited to one place or one people group.
Salvation is offered beyond the walls of Jerusalem and beyond the Jewish people. Overwhelmed with fear and astonishment the women initially keep this news to themselves — but eventually share the message.
We end our study of Mark with a few questions: Am I living on the right side of the empty tomb, serving in power and strength? Furthermore, what am I doing with this news of the resurrected Lord? Am I keeping silent? More specifically when is the last time I have personally shared the gospel with someone?
Jesus is alive and He has commanded us to be make disciples of all the nations (Matt. 28:18–20). Let us get busy sharing Him today.
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