Placement in the Holy Bible:

• Second book of the New Testament

Author:

• Traditionally attributed to Mark (John Mark), a companion of Jesus’ disciples and a close associate of Peter.

Intended Audience:

• Primarily Roman and Gentile readers.

Purpose:

• To briefly present the life and ministry of Jesus.
• To depict Jesus as the Son of God and the true Messiah.

Key Themes:

• Active Ministry of Jesus: Mark’s Gospel emphasizes Jesus’ actions, focusing on His miracles, teachings, and healing.
• Struggle of Jesus: Highlights Jesus’ conflicts with religious leaders and Satan.
• Service and Suffering: Special attention is given to Jesus’ service, His suffering, and His crucifixion.

Major Sections:

1. The Coming of Jesus (Chapter 1): The baptism of Jesus and the beginning of His ministry.
2. Miracles and Teachings (Chapters 2-10): The miracles performed by Jesus, His teachings, and experiences with His disciples.
3. Journey to Jerusalem (Chapters 11-13): Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, disputes with religious leaders, and His prophecies.
4. Passion and Resurrection (Chapters 14-16): The arrest, trial, crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

Structure:

1. Chapter 1: The baptism of Jesus, His early miracles, and teachings.
2. Chapters 2-8: Various miracles, teachings, and conflicts with religious leaders.
3. Chapters 9-10: Journey with the disciples, teachings, and the road to Jerusalem.
4. Chapters 11-13: Entry into Jerusalem, disputes, and prophecies.
5. Chapters 14-16: The suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

Characteristics:

• Fast-paced Style: The Gospel of Mark is written in a swift, action-oriented style, frequently using the word “immediately” (Greek: “euthus”).
• Less Detail: Compared to other Gospels, it provides fewer details but focuses intensely on the actions and miracles of Jesus.

Brief but Powerful: Mark’s Gospel offers a concise yet impactful presentation of Jesus’ life, making it a short and compelling read.