Introduction to Mark

 N.T.#329 

June 19, 2029 

Introduction to Mark

Since it took four months to cover Matthew, it shouldn't take as long. Mark has only 16 chapters in contrast to Matthew having 28 chapters. Let's take a look at the background of this book and its author first of all.

Authorship

The author's full name was John Mark. (Acts 12:12) It was at his mother's house in Jerusalem that Peter went when released from prison. You will recall the situation where Peter knocked on the gate, and the servant girl was doubted when she told the prayer group that Peter wwas at the gate then. So Mark's family was probably well off. Mark and Peter were good friends, obviously.

We can see al little more about Mark in Acts. Mark was influenced by his cousin, Barnabas, who took him with Paul on the first missionary journey. (Acts 13:5) However, Mark returned home. When Barnabas wanted Paul to take Mark with him on his second missionary journey, Paul refused. That friction led to their separation. Barnabas and Mark went to Cyprus. As the young Mark matured, Paul wrote in Colossians that Mark was welcomed, which was later. Paul told Timothy to get Mark and bring him with Timothy, for he is useful to me for ministry. (2 Timothy 4:11)

Later, Mark moved to Rome with Peter and stayed there until both Peter and Paul died. He moved to Alexandria and founded a church, which later became quite influential. 

Date and Place

This Gospel was written in Rome to benefit the Roman Christians, particularly Gentiles.  It was probably A.D. 50-65 when Mark wrote this Gospel. 

Background

Simon of Cyrene, who carried the cross for Jesus, was the father of Rufus, a prominent member of the church at Rome. Simon's sons, Alexander and Rufus later became well-known Christians. (Mark 15:21)

Mark omitted the birth of Jesus and His mentions few teachings of Jesus. He emphasizes the humanity of Christ, his human emotions and limitations. Keep in mind that the Gospel writers were inspired by God, wrote independently of one another, and were moved by the same Holy Spirit. 

[Resources: Liberty Bible Commentary, The MacArthur Bible Commentary]

*My father in law is still with us. He was moved to a hospice care facility where everyone is well pleased with his care. Since it has been 9 days since he got sick, it is predicted that he will pass soon. Please pray for my husband's sibblings, for they are getting tired as they stay with him.