“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.”

Mark 16:15–16 (KJV)

Jesus’ words in this text are an instruction, not a choice. Unlike in Deuteronomy 30:19:

“I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live.”

Deuteronomy 30:19 (NKJV)

where Moses was speaking to the children of Israel, giving them a choice between life and death, blessing and cursing.

Many believers do not know the seriousness of this instruction. They think they have a choice. If the disciples had been saved and decided not to tell the world, over 90% of the world’s population today would not have been saved. Therefore, treat this for what it is—an instruction, not a choice.

Prayer

Lord, help me to treat these words with the seriousness they deserve, and give me the boldness to speak to people about You in Jesus’ name. Amen.