Mark 16:11
And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed not.
Mark 16:11
This verse records the immediate reactions of the disciples hearing that Jesus was alive and had appeared to Mary. The context is a vivid snapshot of human disbelief in the face of extraordinary news. Mark writes with a tempo that mirrors the instability of those early followers: even when confronted with eyewitness testimony, belief is not instant. The phrase “the eleven” recalls that Judas is gone, and the company of Jesus’ closest disciples is left to process the Resurrection. In a cultural sense, personal experience and communal confirmation are crucial for credibility; here, the women’s testimony is not initially believed by the male disciples, highlighting the social weight given to women’s reports in that era and the need for corroboration. The verse shows that faith is a journey of perception—seeing and hearing the accounts must be integrated with trust.
The key theological theme is the persistence of unbelief despite credible witness, which demonstrates the ongoing need for grace to overcome hard-heartedness. Mark emphasizes that belief is not purely intellectual; it involves a willing heart that moves toward trust in the risen Christ. The episode also sets up the continuing mission: the apostles’ eventual belief will lead to preaching of the gospel to all nations. The verse also underscores the reliability of Jesus’ followers even when their faith lags, reminding us that God works through imperfect people who can grow in faith through encounters with the risen Jesus.
How does this apply today?
- Expect growth in faith as a process. Perseverance in prayer and community helps strengthen belief that begins as doubt.
- Create space for dialogue about doubts. The church should welcome questions about the resurrection, not dismiss them.
- Look for evidence of Jesus’ life in real ways: transformed priorities, acts of service, and stories of healing and reconciliation.
- Share your own “I’m not sure” moments with trusted friends who can point you toward Jesus.
Practical example: in a small group, members present a week of experiences where they sensed God’s activity, inviting others to test and affirm what they’re hearing.
Cross-References: Mark 9:24; Luke 24:11; John 20:24-25; Acts 2:14-36; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10