We know that the word “believes” is found in Mark 16:16 as a prerequisite to being “saved,” but have you ever put that word in the context of Mark 16? This chapter begins by recounting for us the resurrection of Jesus from the dead on the first day of the week. But, when His disciples “heard that He was alive and had been seen by [Mary], they did NOT BELIEVE” (16:11). Jesus then appeared to “two” disciples, who “went and told it to the rest, but they did NOT BELIEVE them either” (16:12-13). Jesus later “appeared to the eleven” and “rebuked their UNBELIEF… because they did NOT BELIEVE those who had seen Him after He had risen” (16:14).
The fact that they did NOT BELIEVE is stated four times, before Jesus tells them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who BELIEVES…” (16:15-16). Believing that Jesus was raised from the dead is the foundation of our salvation. Thus, Jesus said, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29). How solid is your faith in the resurrection of Jesus? The evidence is astounding! But your faith in Him!