Embarking on the transformative journey through Mark’s Gospel, it quickly becomes apparent that it offers a profound encounter with Jesus. This journey, with its life-altering nature, is not just informative but deeply inspiring, inviting readers to genuinely meet Jesus Christ in a personal and profound way. Mark unpacks the power and significance of Jesus’ life, teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. Through this exploration, we are invited to deepen our understanding of Jesus’ mission, drawing us into a closer relationship with Him and a deeper commitment to follow Him wholeheartedly.
The term “Gospel” was used in the Roman world as an imperial proclamation of Caesar’s deeds. However, in the New Testament, these books present the good news about “Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (Mark 1:1). Simply put, the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) present accounts of Jesus’s actions and teachings. Keep in mind what John Stott wisely noted, “The gospel is not a human invention, but the good news of God’s intervention in history through His Son, Jesus Christ.”
The Gospel of Mark, written from a Hellenistic Jewish viewpoint to a Greek-cultured world, presents Jesus as the power of God active in the world. Jesus is portrayed as the Humble Servant. Mark, who authored this Gospel, was John Mark, a friend of the Apostle Paul and cousin to Barnabas (Acts 12:12; Colossians 4:10). Mark accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey (Acts 12:25). After deserting them in Perga (Acts 13:13), he followed Barnabas to Cyprus. It is believed that Mark wrote his Gospel in the late AD 50s in Rome, primarily for a Roman audience.
Mark’s main interest is to present the good news. The opening of his Gospel announces, “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (Mark 1:1). In Mark 1:15, we hear this call: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” Mark presents Jesus as God’s active agent, His power in the world, and His means of defeating sin, death, and the Devil (Mark 1:27-28).
The opening sentence of Mark’s Gospel is concise and profound, setting the stage for what follows. Experts say the first sentence should be 24 words or less and answer key questions like “Who?” “What?” “When?” “Where?” and “How?” In just 12 words, Mark answers all these questions except “Where?” which he addresses later.
Mark begins with “The beginning of the gospel,” indicating a timeline that spans from prophetic times to the unforeseeable future. The word “gospel” answers the “what,” presenting the good news backed by divine truth, a truth that should inspire confidence. The name “Jesus” answers the “who,” emphasizing His humanity and divinity. The term “Christ” answers “how,” signifying Jesus as the Anointed One, the Savior. Declaring Jesus as the Son of God points to His resurrection and ongoing reign.
Mark 1:2-8 introduces John the Baptist, who prepares the way for Jesus. Mark quotes from Malachi and Isaiah, linking John’s role to prophecy. A.W. Tozer had this to say about prophecy, “Prophecy was given not to satisfy human curiosity, but to inspire human confidence.” With his unique lifestyle and powerful message, John the Baptist baptizes many. He directs them to Jesus, emphasizing that Jesus is mightier and that John is unworthy even to untie His shoes.
John contrasts his baptism with Jesus’, noting that while he baptizes with water, Jesus will baptize with the Holy Spirit (Mark 1:8). This baptism with the Holy Spirit, fulfilled at Pentecost (Acts 2), continues today when individuals receive Jesus as Savior and Lord.
Mark’s Gospel quickly transitions to Jesus’ baptism, where the Spirit descends upon Him. God the Father’s voice confirms Jesus as His beloved Son. This moment commissions Jesus for His unique mission.
Mark’s Gospel, often described as “the action gospel,” introduces us to Jesus, His mission, and the trajectory of His ministry. As we delve into Mark, we are called to prepare our hearts and lives for Jesus and share His message with others. Let us seek God’s help in preparing our hearts and pray for the courage to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!