Mark: introduction

Over the next few weeks, I want to reflect on the Gospel of Mark. I will post somewhere between one and several posts each week as we walk through the Gospel, section by section.

BACKGROUND

The Gospel of Mark is the shortest and likely the earliest of the four canonical gospels. 

Most scholars think it was written around 65–70 AD, during a time of persecution by Rome, and is traditionally attributed to John Mark, a companion of Peter.

Mark takes Peter's eyewitness memories and shapes them into a fast-paced narrative for a Gentile audience likely living in Rome.

The Gospel of Mark moves very quickly. Mark often uses the word "immediately" to drive the story forward.

OUTLINE

It's a little dangerous to try to reduce a book down to a few statements. Mark, I think can be broken down into three sections or acts.  

Act 1: Jesus ministers with power and authority in Galilee.

Act 2: Jesus travels toward Jerusalem and teaches about his upcoming suffering.

Act 3: Jesus faces the cross and resurrection in Jerusalem.

There are many themes that we will look at, but at the core, are these three themes.

The Suffering Servant: Jesus is the Messiah. But he is not a military conqueror; he proclaims the kingdom through sacrifice and suffering.

The Messianic Secret: Jesus often tells people and demons to keep quiet about his identity until his work is complete.

True Discipleship: The disciples often fail to understand, showing readers that following Jesus means serving others and enduring hardship.