Longer ending is canonical; includes signs and wonders that characterize Pentecostal faith
The Foursquare Church includes Mark 16:9-20 (the Longer Ending) in its canonical Scripture and affirms these verses as authoritative. The passage is particularly valued in Foursquare tradition because of its content regarding signs and wonders, which are central to Foursquare Pentecostal faith and practice.
The promises recorded in the longer ending—that believers will cast out demons, speak in new tongues, take up serpents, and lay hands on the sick—resonate deeply with Foursquare understanding of Spirit-empowerment and charismatic gifts. The passage supports Foursquare conviction that the supernatural signs of the apostolic age continue in the church today through the Holy Spirit's power.
Foursquare churches regularly cite Mark 16:17-18 in their teaching on healing and deliverance ministries. The longer ending is understood as biblical warrant for the church's expectation that believers will exercise supernatural gifts and that Christ's kingdom will be demonstrated through signs and wonders.
Key Distinctions
- Textual status:
- full canonical authority
- Canonical status:
- Theological value:
- supports Foursquare practice of healing and deliverance
Scripture References
Sources
- Foursquare Declaration of Faith
- Foursquare Pentecostal Practice