Mark 16:9-20 — "The Longer Ending"

Christian Churches and Churches of Christ exhibit varied approaches to Mark 16:9-20 depending on the level of biblical scholarship and textual awareness in different congregations. Educated pastors and scholars typically acknowledge the textual problems and limited authority of the longer ending. However, some congregations may cite the passage without discussing textual issues. The passage is not central to Christian Churches theology or practice, and its disputed status does not significantly impact the tradition.

The variance reflects the Restoration Movement's engagement with modern biblical scholarship while maintaining a pragmatic approach to Scripture. Some congregations prioritize textual criticism; others focus on the spiritual content of the passage.