The Gospel of Mark

Author

Mark

Date
Written

Between AD 50 and 70. About 31/2 years (AD 29 ? 33)

Time Span

About 3½ years (AD 29-33)

Title

From the book's author: Mark

Background

A book of action focusing more on Jesus deeds than on His words, Mark is the shortest of the 4 Gospels. It is generally accepted that the preaching of Peter, a companion of Mark, is the source of most of this Gospel's material. Mark also spends time with Paul and Barnabas when he returns with them from Jerusalem to Antioch on their first missionary journey. Mark leaves early, however, and returns to Jerusalem. After this, Barnabas wants to bring Mark, his cousin, on the second missionary journey. But Paul disagrees and leaves instead with Silas. Mark later becomes a close friend and helper of Paul.

Where
Written

Rome (possibly while Peter and Mark are in prison).

To Whom

Generally to all Gentiles, but primarily?to the Romans.

Content

The Gospel according to Mark vividly portrays Jesus teaching, healing, and ministering to the needs of others. Jesus is the perfect example and the perfect sacrifice for people of all time. His public ministry includes exhibits of His divine power over disease, nature, demons, and even death. These miracles also reveal Christ's compassion for a hurting world. However, opposition and hostility grow against Jesus from the chief priests, Pharisees, and Sadducees. Finally, Jesus willingly allows His arrest and crucifixion to take place. But His Resurrection seals the ultimate victory for all who trust Him to save them.

Themes

  1. Jesus is concerned about every aspect of our lives.

  2. Christ's actions paralleled His words, and so must ours.
  3. Christ's death on the cross paid the price for each of our sins if we obey Him.
  4. God loves absolutely everyone.
  5. Even as Christ came to serve us, so must we also serve others.

Key
Words

“Servant”; “Immediately.” The ministry of Jesus Christ centers around His being a “servant” to all giving His life as a ransom for many. Mark's Gospel uses the term “immediately” many times to emphasize the importance and urgency of believing in God's Son!

Outline

1:1- 1:13

 The beginning of Jesus Christ's ministry.

1:14-8:26

 Jesus' ministry of healing and teaching.

8:21-13:37

 Jesus' instruction of His disciples.

14:1-15:41

 Jesus' betrayal, trial, and crucifixion.

15:42-16:20

 Jesus' burial and Resurrection.

More

Old Testament

New Testament

Pentateuch

Historical

Wisdom

Prophets

Gospels

History

Pauls Letters

General Letters



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