Mark 16:1
When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so they could go and anoint the body of Jesus.
When the Sabbath was over
The phrase indicates the conclusion of the Jewish Sabbath, which is from Friday evening to Saturday evening. In the Jewish context, the Sabbath is a day of rest and worship, as commanded in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:8-11). The Greek word for Sabbath, "sabbaton," reflects a period of rest and cessation from work. This timing is significant because it marks the earliest opportunity for the women to perform burial rites, showing their devotion and adherence to Jewish law.

Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene is a prominent figure in the Gospels, known for her deep devotion to Jesus. Her name suggests she was from Magdala, a town on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. Historically, she is often remembered as the first to witness the resurrected Christ, highlighting her important role among Jesus' followers. Her presence here underscores her loyalty and love for Jesus, even in death.

Mary the mother of James
This Mary is often identified as the mother of James the Less, one of the twelve apostles. Her inclusion in this passage emphasizes the involvement of Jesus' close followers and family in His burial rites. The mention of her son, James, connects her to the early Christian community and underscores the familial bonds within Jesus' circle.

and Salome
Salome is another devoted follower of Jesus, possibly the mother of the sons of Zebedee, James and John. Her presence with the other women highlights the role of women in Jesus' ministry and their courage in facing the dangers associated with being identified with Him after His crucifixion. Salome's actions reflect the dedication and service that characterized the early disciples.

bought spices
The act of buying spices indicates preparation for anointing Jesus' body, a customary practice in Jewish burial traditions to honor the deceased and mitigate the odor of decay. The Greek word "agorazo" implies a transaction, showing the women's commitment to honoring Jesus despite the personal cost and risk involved.

so they could go and anoint
Anointing was a significant act of love and respect, often associated with kingship and divine favor in the Hebrew Scriptures. The Greek word "aleipho" means to anoint or rub with oil, symbolizing care and reverence. This act by the women signifies their recognition of Jesus' royal and divine identity, even in death.

the body of Jesus
The reference to "the body of Jesus" underscores the reality of His death, a central tenet of Christian faith. The physicality of Jesus' body affirms the incarnation—God becoming flesh. The women's intention to anoint His body reflects their deep love and the tangible reality of their loss, setting the stage for the miraculous discovery of the resurrection.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Mary Magdalene
A devoted follower of Jesus, Mary Magdalene is often noted for her presence at both the crucifixion and the resurrection. Her dedication is evident as she is among the first to visit Jesus' tomb.

2. Mary, the mother of James
This Mary is identified as the mother of James the Less, one of the twelve apostles. Her presence signifies the involvement of Jesus' close followers in the events following His death.

3. Salome
Another devoted follower of Jesus, Salome is believed to be the mother of the apostles James and John. Her participation in the anointing of Jesus' body highlights the role of women in Jesus' ministry.

4. The Sabbath
The Jewish day of rest, which lasts from Friday evening to Saturday evening. The women waited until the Sabbath was over to perform the burial rites, showing their adherence to Jewish law.

5. The Anointing of Jesus' Body
This event signifies the women's intention to honor Jesus in death, reflecting their love and respect for Him. It also sets the stage for the discovery of the resurrection.
Teaching Points
Faithful Devotion
The women’s actions demonstrate unwavering devotion to Jesus, even in the face of despair. Believers are encouraged to remain faithful in their walk with Christ, regardless of circumstances.

Role of Women in Ministry
The presence of women at the tomb underscores their vital role in Jesus' ministry and the early church. This challenges believers to recognize and value the contributions of women in ministry today.

Respect for Tradition and Law
The women’s observance of the Sabbath before attending to Jesus’ body shows a balance between faith and adherence to religious practices. Christians are called to respect traditions while prioritizing their relationship with Christ.

Hope in Resurrection
The preparation to anoint Jesus’ body, despite His death, reflects a hope that transcends the grave. Believers are reminded of the hope found in the resurrection, which assures eternal life.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the devotion of Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome inspire you in your personal walk with Christ?

2. In what ways can the role of women in the resurrection account inform our understanding of gender roles in the church today?

3. How can we balance respect for religious traditions with the freedom we have in Christ?

4. What does the act of anointing Jesus' body teach us about honoring Christ in our daily lives?

5. How does the hope of the resurrection influence your perspective on life and death?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Luke 24:1-10
This passage provides a parallel account of the women visiting the tomb, offering additional details about their encounter with the angels and the empty tomb.

John 20:1-18
John's Gospel gives a more personal account of Mary Magdalene's experience at the tomb, including her encounter with the risen Christ.

Matthew 28:1-10
Matthew's account also describes the visit to the tomb and the angelic message, emphasizing the resurrection's significance.

Exodus 20:8-11
The commandment to observe the Sabbath highlights the women's respect for the law, as they waited until after the Sabbath to anoint Jesus' body.
The Incredulous DisciplesAlexander MaclarenMark 16:1
Angels in GravesJames Vaughan, M. A.Mark 16:1-8
Hope in DeathA. J. Parry.Mark 16:1-8
Jesus RisenG. M. Boynton.Mark 16:1-8
Love's TenacityA. J. Parry.Mark 16:1-8
Love's TributeA. J. Parry.Mark 16:1-8
Moral Strength in WomenJ. E. Johnson.Mark 16:1-8
Reunion After the ResurrectionA. J. Parry.Mark 16:1-8
Songs in the NightA. J. Parry.Mark 16:1-8
The Holy Sepulchre -- Authenticity of the SiteCanon Liddon.Mark 16:1-8
The Holy Sepulchre -- its Appearance NowCanon Liddon.Mark 16:1-8
The Holy Sepulchre -- its Interest to ChristiansCanon Liddon.Mark 16:1-8
The Import of DeathA. J. Parry.Mark 16:1-8
The Joy of EasterJ. A. Seiss, D. D.Mark 16:1-8
The Mission of the Holy WomenCanon Liddon.Mark 16:1-8
The Sabbath Before the Resurrection of ChristDr. Deems.Mark 16:1-8
The SepulcherE. Johnson Mark 16:1-8
The Stone of Death Rolled AwayA. J. Parry.Mark 16:1-8
Resurrection ProofsA.F. Muir Mark 16:1-14
An Eventful DayJ.J. Given Mark 16:1-18
The ResurrectionR. Green Mark 16:1-18
People
James, Jesus, Mary, Peter, Salome
Places
Galilee, Jerusalem, Nazareth
Topics
Anoint, Aromatic, Body, Bought, Embalm, Got, James, Magdala, Magdalene, Mag'dalene, Mary, Order, Past, Sabbath, Salome, Salo'me, Spices, Sweet
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Mark 16:1

     4466   herbs and spices
     4490   ointment
     4496   perfume
     5241   burial
     5303   embalming
     7304   anointing
     7430   Sabbath, in NT

Mark 16:1-5

     4366   stones

Mark 16:1-6

     2012   Christ, authority

Mark 16:1-7

     7930   Lord's Day, the

Mark 16:1-8

     1436   reality
     2421   gospel, historical foundation

Mark 16:1-11

     5745   women

Mark 16:1-14

     2555   Christ, resurrection appearances

Library
The World-Wide Commission
'Every creature.'--Mark xvi. 15. The missionary enterprise has been put on many bases. People do not like commandments, but yet it is a great relief and strength to come back to one, and answer all questions with 'He bids me!' Now, these words of our Lord open up the whole subject of the Universality of Christianity. I. The divine audacity of Christianity. Take the scene. A mere handful of men, whether 'the twelve' or 'the five hundred brethren' is immaterial. How they must have recoiled when they
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Enthroned Christ
'So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, He was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.'--Mark xvi. 19. How strangely calm and brief is this record of so stupendous an event! Do these sparing and reverent words sound to you like the product of devout imagination, embellishing with legend the facts of history? To me their very restrainedness, calmness, matter-of-factness, if I may so call it, are a strong guarantee that they are the utterance of an eyewitness, who verily saw
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Perpetual Youth
'And entering Into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment.'--Mark xvi. 5. Many great truths concerning Christ's death, and its worth to higher orders of being, are taught by the presence of that angel form, clad in the whiteness of his own God-given purity, sitting in restful contemplation in the dark house where the body of Jesus had lain. 'Which things the angels desire to look into.' Many precious lessons of consolation and hope, too, lie
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Love's Triumph Over Sin
'Tell His disciples and Peter that He goeth before yon into Galilee.--Mark xvi, 7. This prevailing tradition of Christian antiquity ascribes this Gospel to John Mark, sister's son to Barnabas, and affirms that in composing it he was in some sense the 'interpreter' of the Apostle Peter. Some confirmation of this alleged connection between the Evangelist and the Apostle may be gathered from the fact that the former is mentioned by the latter as with him when he wrote his First Epistle. And, in the
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Incredulous Disciples
'And when the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint Him. 2. And very early in the morning, the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun. 3. And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? 4. And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great. 6. And entering into the sepulchre, they saw
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Angel in the Tomb
'They saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were aifrighted. 6. And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted. Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: He is risen; He is not here; behold the place where they laid Him.'--Mark xvi. 5,6. Each of the four Evangelists tells the story of the Resurrection from his own special point of view. None of them has any record of the actual fact, because no eye saw it. Before the earthquake and the angelic descent,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Christ Crowned, the Fact
"When God sought a King for His people of old, He went to the fields to find him; A shepherd was he, with his crook and his lute And a following flock behind him. "O love of the sheep, O joy of the lute, And the sling and the stone for battle; A shepherd was King, the giant was naught, And the enemy driven like cattle. "When God looked to tell of His good will to men, And the Shepherd-King's son whom He gave them; To shepherds, made meek a-caring for sheep, He told of a Christ sent to save them.
by S. D. Gordon—Quiet Talks on the Crowned Christ of Revelation

Baptismal Regeneration
Our Lord having thus given us an insight into the character of the persons whom he has chosen to proclaim his truth, then goes on to deliver to the chosen champions, their commission for the Holy War. I pray you mark the words with solemn care. He sums up in a few words the whole of their work, and at the same time foretells the result of it, telling them that some would doubtless believe and so be saved, and some on the other hand would not believe and would most certainly, therefore, be damned,
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 10: 1864

Unbelievers Upbraided
On Thursday Evening, June 8th, 1876. "He . . . upbraided them with their unbelief."--Mark 16:14. I SHALL not dwell so much upon this particular instance of the disciples' unbelief as upon the fact that the Lord Jesus upbraided them because of it. This action of his shows us the way in which unbelief is to be treated by us. As our loving Saviour felt it to be right rather to upbraid than to console, he taught us that on some occasions, unbelief should be treated with severity rather than with condolence.
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 50: 1904

Sermon for Ascension Day
This third sermon on the Ascension tells us how man ought continually to follow after Christ, as He has walked before us for three and thirty years, passing through manifold and great sufferings, before He returned unto His Father. Mark xvi. 19.--"So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, He was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God." AFTER the Son of God, Jesus Christ, had eaten with His disciples upon the Mount of Olives, and reproved them, that they had been so long time
Susannah Winkworth—The History and Life of the Reverend Doctor John Tauler

The Necessity of Faith for Justification
1. THE LUTHERAN HERESY VS. THE TEACHING OF THE CHURCH.--The Protestant Reformers, notably Luther and Calvin, did not deny that justification is wrought by faith, but they defined justifying faith in a manner altogether foreign to the mind of the Church. a) They distinguished three kinds of faith: (1) belief in the existence of God and the historical fact that Christ has come on earth, suffered, and ascended (fides historica); (2) the sort of trust which is required for exercising the gift of miracles
Joseph Pohle—Grace, Actual and Habitual

Fifth Appearance of Jesus.
(Jerusalem. Sunday Evening) ^B Mark XVI. 14; ^C Luke XXIV. 36-43; ^D John XX. 19-25. ^b 14 And afterward ^c as they spake these things [while the two from Emmaus were telling their story] , ^b he was manifested unto the eleven themselves as they sat at meat; ^d 19 When therefore it was evening, on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus ^c himself ^d came and stood in the midst, ^c of them, and saith unto them, Peace
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Third and Fourth Appearances of Jesus.
(Sunday Afternoon.) ^B Mark XVI. 12, 13; ^C Luke XXIV. 13-35; ^E I. Cor. XV. 5. ^b 12 And after these things he was manifested in another form [i. e., another manner] unto two of them, as they walked, on their way into the country. ^c 13 And behold, two of them were going that very day to a village named Emmaus [Several sites have been suggested, but the village of Emmaus has not yet been identified beyond dispute. Its location is probably marked by the ruins called el Kubeibeh, which lies northwest
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

The Ascension.
(Olivet, Between Jerusalem and Bethany.) ^B Mark XVI. 19, 20; ^C Luke XXIV. 50-53; ^E Acts I. 9-12. ^b 19 So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken unto them, ^e 9 And when he had said these things, ^c he led them out until they were over against Bethany: and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. 51 And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he parted from them [it is significant that our Lord's gesture, when last seen of men, was one of blessing], and ^e as they were looking, he was taken
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Obedience to the Last Command
Go ye therefore and make disciples of all the nations.' --Matt. 28:19. Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.'--Mark 16:15. #8216;As Thou didst send Me into the world, even so send I them into the world' -- John 17:18; 20:21. Ye shall receive power, when the Holy Spirit is come upon you: and ye shall be My witnesses unto the uttermost parts of the earth.'--Acts 1:8. All these words breathe nothing less than the spirit of world conquest. All the nations,' all the world,'
Andrew Murray—The School of Obedience

Baptism, a Divinely Appointed Means of Grace.
When we inquire into the benefits and blessings which the Word of God connects with baptism, we must be careful to obtain the true sense and necessary meaning of its declarations. It is not enough to pick out an isolated passage or two, give them a sense of our own, and forthwith build on them a theory or doctrine. In this way the Holy Scriptures have been made to teach and support the gravest errors and most dangerous heresies. In this way, many persons "wrest the Scriptures to their own destruction."
G. H. Gerberding—The Way of Salvation in the Lutheran Church

Of the Places of Burial.
There were more common and more noble sepulchres. The common were in public burying-places, as it is with us: but they were without the city. "And through that place was no current of waters to be made; through it was to be no public way; cattle were not to feed there, nor was wood to be gathered from thence." "Nor was it lawful to walk among the sepulchres with phylacteries fastened to their heads, nor with the book of the law hanging at their arm." Some sepulchres were extraordinary; that is, in
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

Baptism.
Literature. The commentaries on Matt. 28:19; Mark 16:16; John 3:5; Acts 2:38; 8:13, 16, 18, 37; Rom. 6:4; Gal. 3:27; Tit. 3:5; 1 Pet 3:21. G. J. Vossius: De Baptismo Disputationes XX. Amsterdam, 1648. W. Wall (Episcopalian): The History of Infant Baptism (a very learned work), first published in London, 1705, 2 vols., best edition by H. Cotton, Oxford, 1836, 4 vols., and 1862, 2 vols., together with Gale's (Baptist)Reflections and Wall's Defense. A Latin translation by Schlosser appeared, vol. I.,
Philip Schaff—History of the Christian Church, Volume I

Christ Risen
"And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, bought spices, that they might come and anoint Him. And very early on the first day of the week, they come to the tomb when the sun was risen. And they were saying among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the tomb? and looking up, they see that the stone is rolled back: for it was exceeding great. And entering into the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, arrayed in
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

The Ascension
"So then the Lord Jesus, after He had spoken unto them, was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word by the signs that followed. Amen." MARK 16:19-20 (R.V.) WE have reached the close of the great Gospel of the energies of Jesus, His toils, His manner, His searching gaze, His noble indignation, His love of children, the consuming zeal by virtue of which He was not more truly the
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

Of Baptism.
1. Baptism defined. Its primary object. This consists of three things. 1. To attest the forgiveness of sins. 2. Passages of Scripture proving the forgiveness of sins. 3. Forgiveness not only of past but also of future sins. This no encouragement to license in sin. 4 Refutation of those who share forgiveness between Baptism and Repentance. 5 Second thing in Baptism--viz. to teach that we are ingrafted into Christ for mortification and newness of life. 6. Third thing in Baptism--viz. to teach us that
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Dispute with Whitefield
1741. Sunday, February 1.--A private letter, written to me by Mr. Whitefield, was printed without either his leave or mine, and a great numbers of copies were given to our people, both at the door and in the Foundry itself. Having procured one of them, I related (after preaching) the naked fact to the congregation and told them, "I will do just what I believe Mr. Whitefield would, were he here himself." Upon which I tore it in pieces before them all. Everyone who had received it, did the same. So
John Wesley—The Journal of John Wesley

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