Gospel of Mark

Mark 16 first lines, Codex Sinaiticus

Andrea Mantegna 087

Synoptic problem two source colored

Error creating thumbnail:

Codex Alexandrinus list of kephalaia

MarkEvangelist

Mark Bib Lat 1486 c.2 Bodleian Library

The Gospel of Mark is the second book in the New Testament of the Christian Bible. It is one of the four canonical gospels alongside the Gospel of Matthew, Gospel of Luke, and Gospel of John. The Gospel of Mark is traditionally attributed to John Mark, a companion of Peter the Apostle, and is believed to have been written first, making it the oldest of the four gospels. Its composition date is estimated to be around 66–70 AD, during or shortly after the Roman destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Authorship and Date

The authorship of the Gospel of Mark has been a subject of scholarly debate. The earliest attribution to John Mark comes from Papias of Hierapolis, an early 2nd-century bishop, who suggested that Mark was the interpreter of Peter and wrote down accurately everything he remembered from Peter's teachings about Jesus. However, the gospel itself is anonymous, and the connection to John Mark is based on early Christian tradition rather than internal textual evidence.

The dating of the Gospel of Mark is usually linked to the references of the Jewish War and the destruction of Jerusalem, suggesting a composition date shortly after these events. This places the gospel's writing around 66–70 AD, possibly in Rome, where Mark is said to have been associated with Peter.

Content and Structure

The Gospel of Mark is the shortest of the canonical gospels and is characterized by its concise narrative. It begins with the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist and ends with the discovery of the empty tomb following Jesus' crucifixion. Mark's gospel emphasizes the deeds of Jesus, such as his miracles and exorcisms, more than his teachings compared to the other gospels.

The structure of Mark can be divided into three main parts: 1. The public ministry of Jesus in Galilee 2. The journey of Jesus to Jerusalem 3. The passion and resurrection of Jesus in Jerusalem

Mark's gospel is notable for its sense of immediacy and urgency, often using the term "immediately" to transition between events. It presents Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God, whose death and resurrection are central to the salvation of humanity.

Themes and Theology

Key themes in the Gospel of Mark include the messianic secret, the suffering of Jesus, discipleship, and the kingdom of God. The messianic secret refers to Jesus' instructions to his followers and those he healed to keep his identity as the Messiah a secret. This theme is unique to Mark and has been interpreted in various ways by scholars.

The suffering of Jesus and the call to discipleship are closely linked in Mark's gospel. Followers of Jesus are expected to take up their cross and follow him, sharing in his sufferings. The kingdom of God is presented as a present reality that is also yet to come, with Jesus' actions and teachings inaugurating this new era.

Reception and Influence

The Gospel of Mark has played a significant role in Christian theology and liturgy. It is considered by many scholars to be a primary source for the other synoptic gospels, Matthew and Luke, due to its early composition date and the similarities between these texts.

Throughout history, the Gospel of Mark has been interpreted and reinterpreted by theologians, scholars, and believers, contributing to the rich tapestry of Christian thought and practice. Its emphasis on the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus has been particularly influential in Christian understandings of salvation, discipleship, and the nature of Christ's mission.