David E. Garland - A Theology of Marks Gospel: Good News about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God

E NDORSEMENTS

Understandings of Marks Gospel have changed enormously over the decades. Once seen as a simplistic narrative by an untutored believer, Mark is now understood as the work of a subtle writer who used a deceptively simple literary style to present profound theological truths. The modern literature on Mark is so vast that a learned guide is essential for anyone wishing to make sense of it. Fortunately, we now have this work of exemplary scholarship in which David Garland offers his carefully considered thoughts on Mark, and on the gospels theological arguments. Both scholars and general readers will benefit greatly from Garlands illuminating study, which is presented in such a clear, accessible writing style.

Philip Jenkins, Institute for Studies of Religion, Baylor University

As usual, David Garland provides an insightful and well-researched reading into the biblical text. In this book, however, he offers an additional benefit: a model for how to write a helpful theology of a narrative work. By exploring Mark thematically and theologically, Garland provides a distinctively new contribution.

Craig Keener, F. M. and Ada Thompson Professor of Biblical Studies, Asbury Theological Seminary

David Garland offers a one-stop shop on the Gospel of Mark, with treatments of introductory questions, analysis of the literary structure, and cogent discussion of major theological emphases. Conducted in ample dialogue with current and past scholarship on all matters dealt with, this is a rich resource for anyone seeking an up-to-date and wide-ranging analysis of Mark.

L. W. Hurtado, Emeritus Professor of New Testament Language, Literature & Theology, School of Divinity, University of Edinburgh

Having written two excellent commentaries on Marks Gospel, David Garland is well suited to write a comprehensive work on Markan theology. This clear, accurate, and engaging volume is a welcome addition at a time when scholars are more and more celebrating the unique theological contributions of each of the four Evangelists.

Mark L. Strauss, Professor of New Testament, Bethel Seminary in San Diego

Simply put, this is a magnificent, major resource for the study of Mark. It is both comprehensive and detailed. It is impressive for the depth and range of its scholarship, as well as its careful argumentation. David Garlands approach to Mark reflects the perfect blend of believing and responsibly critical scholarship. It is hard to imagine a better or more helpful volume on the theology of Mark than this.

Donald A. Hagner, George Eldon Ladd Professor Emeritus of New Testament, Fuller Theological Seminary