And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;

MARK 16:17KJV
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Mark 16:17 (KJV)

What does Mark 16:17 mean?

Mark 16:17 says that certain miraculous signs will accompany those who believe in Jesus: they will cast out evil spirits in his name and speak in new languages. This verse highlights visible, supernatural acts as marks of genuine belief, according to the words attributed to Jesus after his resurrection.

In this passage, Jesus is speaking to his disciples after rising from the dead, giving them instructions and assurances about what will happen as they spread his message. The verse describes dramatic signs—like driving out demons and speaking new tongues—that will follow believers, emphasizing the power and authority connected to faith in Jesus’ name.

The Greek behind Mark 16:17

  • σημεῖα (sēmeia, "signs"): This word refers to signs or miracles that serve as evidence or confirmation. In this context, it means visible acts that show God’s power is at work among believers.
  • ἐκβάλωσιν (ekbalōsin, "cast out"): This verb means to drive out or expel. Here, it specifically refers to casting out evil spirits, suggesting a forceful removal by authority.
  • γλώσσαις (glōssais, "tongues"): This word means languages. The phrase "new tongues" points to speaking in languages not previously known to the speaker, often understood as a supernatural ability.

Why Mark 16:17 matters

  • Mark 16:17 clarifies that the signs mentioned are not requirements for belief but are described as accompanying those who believe, which helps avoid confusion about their role.
  • The verse connects the authority of Jesus’ name to the actions of believers, underlining that these signs are not by human power but by invoking Jesus.
  • This statement sets up the context for the early Christian movement in Acts, where similar signs are reported, showing continuity between Jesus’ promises and the experiences of the first disciples.

Where else these words appear

“follow” Greek G3877 · used in 4 verses

  • Luke 1:3 It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,
  • 1 Timothy 4:6 If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.
  • 2 Timothy 3:10 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,

“new” Greek G2537 · used in 38 verses

  • Matthew 9:17 Neither do men put new wine into old bottles: else the bottles break, and the wine runneth out, and the bottles perish: but they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved.
  • Luke 22:20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.
  • Hebrews 8:13 In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.

“tongues” Greek G1100 · used in 47 verses

  • Mark 7:33 And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue;
  • 1 Corinthians 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
  • 1 Corinthians 14:39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.

“devils” Greek G1140 · used in 52 verses

  • Matthew 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
  • Mark 9:38 And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.
  • Luke 11:15 But some of them said, He casteth out devils through Beelzebub the chief of the devils.