Mark 16:15 (KJV)

What does Mark 16:15 mean?

Mark 16:15 records Jesus telling his followers to go out into the whole world and announce the good news to every person. This verse highlights a command to share the message of the gospel with all people, not just a specific group.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to his disciples after his resurrection. The instruction comes at a moment when he is preparing them for their mission after he leaves. The verse emphasizes the universal scope of the message—they are to go everywhere ("all the world") and reach everyone ("every creature"), showing that the gospel is meant for all humanity.

The Greek behind Mark 16:15

• κόσμος (kosmos, "world"): This word often means the entire inhabited world or all of humanity. Here, it stresses that the message is not limited by geography or ethnicity.
• κηρύξατε (kēryxate, "preach"): This verb means to proclaim or announce publicly, like a herald. It suggests a bold, open declaration rather than a private conversation.
• εὐαγγέλιον (euangelion, "gospel"): This term means "good news." In the context of Mark, it refers specifically to the message about Jesus and what he has done.
• κτίσις (ktisis, "creature"): This word can mean "creation" or "created being." In this verse, it is often understood as referring to every person, underlining the inclusiveness of the command.

Why Mark 16:15 matters

• Mark 16:15 clears up any idea that the gospel was only for a small group; it shows that Jesus intended his message for all people, everywhere.
• The verse sets the stage for the book of Acts and the spread of Christianity beyond its original setting, connecting the end of Mark to the larger story of the early church.
• By using words that mean "all the world" and "every creature," Mark 16:15 emphasizes the broad and outward-looking nature of Jesus’ mission for his followers.