Expert: Joe Norman - 10/16/2007

Question
The first old scroll does not have from Mark 9 thru 20.  God does not have to repeat his self twice because truth does not have to be defended.  What makes you believe that the second or any of the other 4200 copies are needed to prove anything.  Please give me your answer as why you believe the truth from Gods word has to be repeated by any one else to make it valid.

Answer
Hi Raybert,

 Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to respond to you. I completely agree that God does not have to repeat Himself twice, but He does repeat Himself. I believe it is for emphasis at times, but not always. I do not believe that the second or any of the 4200 copies are needed to prove anything...common sense dictates that as a fact. I am not exactly sure why you are asking me this. What is your point or motivation?

 Many of the early church fathers in their writings quote from the passage, thus further indicating its genuineness.

Even if Mark 16:9-20 were not part of the original manuscripts, other passages of scripture display these same truths.

God has given us the ability to think logically and to analyze evidence. God chose also to provide the Bible in it's entirety to guide us regarding Christian living, worship, organization of the church, etc. God also chose to spread the gospel through preachers. (I Cor.1:21; Rom.10:14,15) I believe the massive manuscript evidence, the fact that the most reliable Bible versions, and the early Christian Fathers quoting from verse 9-20 that we can put all our confidence in the ending of Mark as found in the American Standard and other reliable versions like the King James (1611), NASV, and NKJV.

One other note regarding the earliest manuscript not including verses 9-20 is that there is a space left that would fit those verses. God only needs to say something once for it to be true, but I completely believe that we have all the scriptures God intended us to have and He made sure of it through His divine providence.

 What is amazing to me is that we have no original writings of many Greek philosophers...only copies and not many either. But no one questions the accuracy and authenticity of them. We have more ancient copies of the entire Bible than any other ancient written work, but people are constantly doubting and challenging their authenticity. Logic and common sense tell us that because not only is it amazing we have over 4200 copies, but the fact that they are so accurate is beyond any other written work.

 I hope my answer has met to your satisfaction. If you have further questions I will do my best to answer them as well. May God bless you richly.

            Immersed Into Christ, Joe Norman