Mark

Who is Jesus? How Should I Respond to Him?

Mark introduces Jesus as the beloved son of God, letting us know that with Jesus, God’s kingdom has broken in to our world. Mark then launches into Jesus' ministry in Galilee, Jerusalem and all places in between.

Here are some of the big themes we will focus on during this series: mark cover image

In Galilee: Mark 1 -8. "Who is Jesus"

Jesus brings forward the “kingdom” with things he says and does and people aren't sure who he is.
Jesus continues to teach about the kingdom but begins to show that he isn’t the kind of Messiah they expected…and is misunderstood, even from his own disciples.

In Between Galilee & Jerusalem: Mark 8 - 11
"Wait, we are still confused" & "Jesus Paints a New Image."

Jesus tries (on 3 occasions - 8:27, 9:30 & 10:32) to get through to his own disciples the type of Messiah he is
They clearly don’t get it, even though they think they do. They see him as a victorious King that kicks out the Romans and they hope to be co-rulers with him once it’s all said and done.
Jesus shows them that he is a suffering God, one who will die for others and to follow him, they too must die to themselves and serve others.

In Jerusalem: Mark 11-16 "Jesus Revealed as King"

Jesus enters Jerusalem in a kingly fashion, asserts his authority, condemns the religious leaders and even predicts the downfall of Jerusalem.
Jesus tries to show his disciples who he really is during the Passover meal, also instituting a new tradition.
He is arrested, crucified and resurrects from the dead.
Ending of Mark is controversial…or is it intentional from the author?

Resources for further study:

The Bible Project Mark Overview→

Mark "Book Collection" Overview→

InterVarsity Study for Mark 1 - 8 (download)→

Ashley Strand: "The Gospel According to Mark"→

Map of Palestine in Jesus' time (download)→

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