Book introduction
The book of Mark
Mark is the shortest Gospel and moves fast. Jesus heals, teaches, and calls people to follow him, and the word “immediately” keeps the pace up. The second half turns toward the cross.
Who wrote Mark?
The book is anonymous. Early writers, starting with Papias around AD 120, said John Mark wrote it from Peter’s preaching. Many scholars accept a link to Mark; some are unsure. Most think Mark was the first Gospel written.
When was it written?
About AD 55–70.
Main themes
- Who is Jesus?
- People keep asking; Peter answers in chapter 8.
- The servant who gives his life
- The Son of Man “came not to be served but to serve.”
- Following means the cross
- Disciples take up their cross too.
Outline of Mark
Key verses
and said, “The time is now complete, and the kingdom of God has drawn near. Repent, and put your faith in the gospel.”
He asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Messiah.”
For the Son of Man, too, came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom in place of many.
Quoted from the Lumin Translation.
Where to start
Start at chapter 1. Mark is the quickest way to read a whole Gospel.
How well do you know Mark?
Ten questions on the book of Mark, from “Mark’s Gospel opens with whom baptizing in the wilderness?” on. Each answer shows its verse.
Ask about this book
Questions about Mark?
Lumin answers in a few sentences and shows each verse it cites in full.
Keep going
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The same short answers with the verse beside each one, plus your saved questions, prayer, and the whole Bible to read in.
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