Mark

Mark


What do you see in this book that tells you of the original reader? It is believed that Mark was writing for Gentile readers–at that time, this would have been a primarily Roman and Greek audience.

What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? Was Mark in a hurry? No. He was seeing Jesus as a man of action and the life in Him as action. Much of Jesus’ teachings are abbreviated and there are not as many references to the Old Testament prophecies. It’s almost as if you were on a horse galloping through this gospel of Jesus. That sounds rather like Peter’s personality as well!

What are the main themes, repeated ideas, and main idea in this book. Secrecy! Many times Jesus warns those whom He had healed not to spread abroad His power, His identity. Nearly half of the book covers the last eight days of Jesus life ending with His resurrection. His power as a miracle worker, His seemingly endless compassion for others and servanthood were on every page. "But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be leader among you must be your servant . . ." Mark 10:43.

What is the primary reason this book was written? Mark wrote this book for Roman readership. Many Jewish themes such as the law, genealogy of Jesus, and Jewish modes of speech are absent in this gospel. Persecution of believers was coming from Rome in this time the book was written, 55-68 A.D. so this gospel would have been a great consolation for the Christians in Rome.

What does the book show about the character and nature of God? That God is faithful to give us these four accounts of Jesus’ life. In this account, the main characteristic of Jesus is His servant heart.

What does this book show about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? The author’s emphasis on the last week of Jesus’ life shows the victory of His life and the promise of an overcoming life. This would be of great importance to the original reader suffering persecution.

Personal application: I really enjoyed this streamlined account of Jesus life. What a difference these Gospels made when they are more clearly understood by the insights given to us in this school and through our text books. I was fascinated by the "Messianic Secret" as well a servant leader. The miracles, so many? I noticed so much in this short book!

Point of passion: Our approach to the Gospel should change with who we are talking to or what point we are trying to make. This would apply to witnessing and to prayer!