The Gospel of Mark

Author:

-Tradition holds John Mark, associate of Paul, Barnabas and Peter.
-Greek speaking, but not from Palestine
-Most likely a Roman Christian
-Shows no knowledge of Jewish Revolt in 66-70AD
-Is writing to a persecuted community, most likely in Rome under Nero

Date:

-Most scholars date around 68AD

Characteristics of the Gospel:

-Fast moving writing style. Uses term “immediately” a lot
-Dramatic
-Action packed
-Presents a very human Jesus
-The Cross looms large in the Gospel
-Being a Christian means following Jesus all the way to the cross
-Messianic Secret
-Stresses future hope - characteristic of apocalyptic writing, which is always to encourage the persecuted to persevere
-Jesus is frequently misunderstood
-Disciples portrayed as really slow to “get it” about Jesus
-Wrong response to Jesus is “fear” and “amazement”
-Gospel really ends at 16:8. Resurrection appearances added later

Gospel Theme:

-Messiah who suffers horrible death
-Salvation comes only through Crucifixion
-The greatest in the humblest
-Power comes through service
-Prosperity is a hindrance
-Jesus is the suffering servant Messiah
-We must imitate follow Jesus all the way to the Cross
-The way to glory is the cross

-New Testament Course from Formation Training for Christian Ministry (FTCM - Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston)