Zondervan - Mark

Copyright 2006 Thomas Nelson, Inc.

The publishers are grateful to Michael Christopher for his collaboration, writing skills, and editorial help in developing the content for this book.

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Unless otherwise noted, Scripture quotations are taken from THE NEW KING JAMES VERSION. 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

ISBN 978-1-4185-0618-6

Printed in the United States of America

A Word from the Publisher...

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
2 Timothy 2:15 NKJV

We are so glad that you have chosen this study guide to enrich your biblical knowledge and strengthen your walk with God. Inside you will find great information that will deepen your understanding and knowledge of this book of the Bible.

Many tools are included to aid you in your study, including ancient and presentday maps of the Middle East, as well as timelines and charts to help you understand when the book was written and why. You will also benefit from sidebars placed strategically throughout this study guide, designed to give you expanded knowledge of language, theology, culture, and other details regarding the Scripture being studied.

We consider it a joy and a ministry to serve you and teach you through these study guides. May your heart be blessed, your mind expanded, and your spirit lifted as you walk through Gods Word.

Blessings,

Edward (Les) Middleton, M.Div.

Editor-in-Chief, Nelson Impact

TIMELINE OF NEW

TESTAMENT WRITINGS

OLD MIDDLE EAST

Most scholars agree that the book of Mark was written in Rome.

MIDDLE EAST OF TODAY

OLD TESTAMENT DIVISIONS

NEW TESTAMENT DIVISIONS

ICON KEY

Throughout this study guide, you will find many icon sidebars that will aid and enrich your study of this book of the Bible. To help you identify what these icons represent, please refer to the key below.

BIBLICAL GRAB BAG

A biblical grab bag full of interesting facts and tidbits.

BIBLE

Further exploration of biblical principles and interpretations, along with a little food for thought.

LANGUAGE

Word usages, definitions, interpretations, and information on the Greek and Hebrew languages.

CULTURE

Customs, traditions, and lifestyle practices in biblical times.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL

Archaeological discoveries and artifacts that relate to biblical life, as well as modern-day discoveries.

CONTENTS

F or the reader who is learning about Jesus Christ for the first time, the Gospel of Mark may be the ideal introduction. It is the shortest of the four Gospels, told in a journalistic, action-packed style reminiscent of an eyewitness report. Despite its brevity, it is filled with colorful details, including unforgettable emotional responses by Jesus and those around him. No wonder that on new mission fields, Mark is often the first book translated into the native language. If other books of the Bible can be likened to movie documentaries, then Mark may best resemble a gripping, fast-paced thriller.