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:
- The Coming of Jesus (Chapter 1): The baptism of Jesus and the beginning of His ministry.
- Miracles and Teachings (Chapters 2-10): The miracles performed by Jesus, His teachings, and experiences with His disciples.
- Journey to Jerusalem (Chapters 11-13): Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, disputes with religious leaders, and His prophecies.
- Passion and Resurrection (Chapters 14-16): The arrest, trial, crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
Structure:
- Chapter 1: The baptism of Jesus, His early miracles, and teachings.
- Chapters 2-8: Various miracles, teachings, and conflicts with religious leaders.
- Chapters 9-10: Journey with the disciples, teachings, and the road to Jerusalem.
- Chapters 11-13: Entry into Jerusalem, disputes, and prophecies.
- 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.