Living Water #667

LIVING WATER EPISODE 667 || 1ST APRIL, 2026

By Solomon Uwumbolibe Mensah

Empowered to Go 

Scripture Readings Mark 16:15-20

"He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.  And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.”

 After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God. Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.

Beloved, the final words of Jesus to His disciples before His ascension are some of the most powerful instructions in Scripture. Known as the Great Commission, Mark 16:15–20 calls every believer into action. Jesus commands us to go into all the world, share the gospel, and demonstrate His power. This passage challenges us to move beyond passivity and embrace a life of faith and obedience. Today, we see three important lessons: the call to evangelism, the promise of salvation, and the authority of Christ in our lives.

The Call to Evangelism: Jesus said, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” This command is active and personal—faith is not meant to be passive. Evangelism is not limited to pastors, missionaries, or church leaders; it is the responsibility of every believer. Preaching the gospel means sharing the message of salvation through words, actions, and lifestyle. The message of Jesus is not meant to remain private; it is intended for all creation, every nation, tribe, and people. Each of us has a role in proclaiming Christ, and even small acts of witness can make a powerful impact.

Salvation Through Faith and Baptism:: Jesus continues in verse 16, “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” Salvation begins with faith; trusting Jesus with your life, surrendering to His Lordship, and committing to follow Him. Baptism is a public declaration of that faith, symbolizing repentance, cleansing, and new life in Christ. Belief is more than intellectual agreement; it requires trust, surrender, and wholehearted commitment. Rejection of faith has eternal consequences, highlighting the urgency of sharing the gospel faithfully and boldly. This verse reminds us that salvation is available to all who believe and that our witness can bring eternal hope to those around us.

The Promise of Signs and Authority: In verses 17–18, Jesus promises that signs will accompany those who believe. Believers are given authority in His name to overcome spiritual opposition, bring healing, and demonstrate God’s power. Driving out demons, speaking in new tongues, and healing the sick are signs that confirm the gospel and testify that God is alive. These signs are not meant to glorify us, but to strengthen the message of salvation and draw others to Christ. Verse 19 tells us that Jesus ascended and now sits at the right hand of God, giving His commands eternal authority. When we step out in obedience and faith, God works through us, confirming His Word and demonstrating His glory. Just as the disciples went everywhere and saw God perform miracles, we too can experience His power as we obey His call.

Mark 16:15–20 reminds us that we are called to actively share the gospel, that salvation comes through faith and public commitment, and that believers are empowered with divine authority. The Great Commission is not optional; it challenges us to step out of our comfort zones, trust God’s power, and proclaim His message boldly. Today, we are invited to reflect on our lives: Are we living as witnesses of Christ? Are we sharing His message through our words, actions, and lifestyle? Let us commit to go into our schools, workplaces, neighborhoods, and communities, trusting God to work through us as we proclaim His gospel.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the Great Commission. Empower us to share Your gospel boldly, trust in Your authority, and be vessels of Your power. Let our lives testify of Your goodness and bring others into Your kingdom. In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.