Correct Option: C. to inform the disciples that they will see Jesus in Galilee
Detailed Explanation:
In the Gospel of Mark, specifically in Mark 16:1-8, we find the account of the women visiting the empty tomb of Jesus after His crucifixion. When they arrive, they encounter a young man (an angel) who tells them that Jesus has risen from the dead. The angel gives them specific instructions regarding what they should do next.
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Context of the Passage: After Jesus' crucifixion, the women—Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome—go to the tomb to anoint Jesus' body. They are met by an angel who informs them that Jesus has risen and is no longer in the tomb.
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The Angel's Message: The angel instructs the women to go and tell the disciples that Jesus has risen and that they will see Him in Galilee. This is significant because it emphasizes the continuity of Jesus' mission and the importance of the disciples in the early Christian community. The mention of Galilee is also crucial as it is where Jesus began His ministry and where He will meet His disciples again.
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Importance of the Instruction: The instruction to inform the disciples about seeing Jesus in Galilee serves multiple purposes:
- It reassures the disciples of Jesus' resurrection.
- It emphasizes the need for the disciples to continue their mission.
- It highlights the geographical significance of Galilee in Jesus' ministry.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
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Option A: to encourage the disciples to remain in Jerusalem
This option is incorrect because the angel does not instruct the women to tell the disciples to stay in Jerusalem. Instead, the message is about going to Galilee, which indicates movement rather than remaining in one place.
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Option B: to order the disciples to preach to the Gentiles
While the Great Commission (found in Matthew 28:19) does include the instruction to preach to all nations, this specific instruction is not given in Mark's account at the empty tomb. The focus in Mark is on the resurrection and the meeting in Galilee, not on the directive to preach to the Gentiles.
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Option D: to tell nobody anything
This option is misleading. While the women initially flee from the tomb in fear and say nothing to anyone (Mark 16:8), the angel's command is to inform the disciples. The fear of the women does not negate the instruction they received. The message was meant to be shared, which contradicts the idea of telling nobody anything.
Revision Summary:
- In Mark 16:1-8, the women at the tomb are instructed to tell the disciples that Jesus has risen and will meet them in Galilee.
- The message emphasizes the continuity of Jesus' mission and the role of the disciples.
- Other options either misinterpret the instructions given or focus on aspects not present in Mark's account.
- Understanding the context and significance of the resurrection is crucial for grasping the message of the Gospel of Mark.