Mark 16:9-20 — "The Longer Ending"

Whether the longer ending of Mark's Gospel (verses 9-20), absent from the earliest manuscripts, is considered part of canonical Scripture or a later addition.

Overall consensus61/100

Church of Christ, Scientist

Church of Christ, Scientist

Unique & Independent

Denies

Longer Ending not canonical; spiritual signs (healing) demonstrate Truth, not external

Christian Science does not recognize Mark 16:9-20 as canonical and notes its absence from earliest manuscripts. However, the passage's reference to 'signs'—particularly healing—aligns with Christian Science emphasis on demonstrating Truth through practical results. Christian Science rejects the literal wonders (serpents, poison) mentioned in the passage, instead emphasizing spiritual 'signs' such as healing and the overcoming of error through consciousness of divine Truth. The passage is understood spiritually rather than as a literal template for Christian practice.

Key Distinctions

Textual status:
Canonical status:
not canonical; later addition
Theological value:
spiritual signs (healing); not literal wonders

Scripture References

Sources

  • Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, Mary Baker Eddy