Part 3—MARK: the way of a disciple

Description

Part Three: MARK
“The Gospel According to Mark” was the first of the canonical Gospels to be written. “Mark” (the unknown author) wrote to bolster a congregation that was under great stress from persecution from two sides—Rome and the synagogue. Some members had walked away from the faith, others were wavering. It is out of this life-threatening situation that Mark challenges his church to “take up their cross and follow Jesus,” a Jesus who never wavered in his commitment to God’s way. That “way” is spelled out for any who would follow Jesus regardless of the cost.  Jesus becomes the example par excellence for disciples in these trying times. We will also note how the disciples are depicted, how the cross saves, and why the ending of Mark could be no other way, among many other gems from this Gospel.