Following His crucifixion, burial, and resurrection, Jesus gave final instructions prior to ascending on high to be with the Father (cf. Acts 1:7–11). Some were reminders, some were encouragements, some were reassurance, and some were new information; however, all of them were the authoritative commands (cf. Matthew 28:18). One of these is found at Mark 16:15–16. Jesus said to His apostles, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” Let’s note three primary elements in these two verses.
First, we see the imperative method. Jesus said “Go” and “Preach.” The Greek text indicates that “Preach” is actually the only imperative. “Go” is a participle that means, “as you are going.” In other words, as you are going about your daily routines: work, shopping, entertainment, school, et al. As we do these things, it is imperative that we “preach.” While God limits the position of “preacher” to Christian men, all Christians are to “herald the King’s message” which is the precise meaning of “preach.”
Second, we see the inclusive masses. This heralding of the King’s message is to be taken “into all the world” (“all nations,” Matthew 28:19). Furthermore, it is to be taken “to every creature” (“the whole creation,” ASV). This does not mean animals need this message. It does mean that EVERY human being needs this message—no matter his race, gender, background, social status, etc.
Third, we will see the inspired message. Yes, all of the elements we are considering here are inspired by God, but in this point, we will focus on the gospel—the good news of Jesus Christ. Now that the summation of the gospel had been accomplished (death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, cf. 1 Corinthians 15:1–4), it was time to take that good news to all the world and to every creature. For, it is only by this message that any soul can be saved from sins.
Note Jesus’ commandment concerning how individuals will respond to the gospel: “He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned” (Mark 16:16).
Because these two verses are not ALL that the Scriptures command of us, it is necessary that we see also repentance (Acts 2:38; Acts 17:30; 2 Corinthians 7:10) and confession (Acts 8:37; Romans 10:10) as parts of God’s plan of salvation. Some quibble that the second part of verse 16 does not include “not baptized.”
One, hopefully none of us are looking for how to be condemned, but rather how to be saved. Two, Jesus does not have to say “not baptized,” as it is implied that baptism in water is FUTILE if one does not believe.
If a person truly believes Jesus and believes in Jesus, he will follow His commands to repent, confess, and be baptized.
