Introduction - Mark 1
I really like Mark's writing style. He's more of a conversationalist and is more colloquial - more of the "street language" feel. That's important for me because it helps me understand that the disciples were not necessarily chosen to be "the twelve" because of any particular outstanding character trait. Rather, they were ordinary guys just like you and I - messing up and a bit dim-witted at times.
It is interesting to note that both Matthew & Luke seem to correct or at least provide a different version of things that happen. For example, in verse 34 of this chapter, we see Mark's version:
34 So Jesus healed great numbers of sick people who had many different kinds of diseases, and he ordered many demons to come out of their victims. But because they knew who he was, he refused to allow the demons to speak. (NLT)
However, both Matthew and Luke use the word "all" instead of "many" or "great numbers" (see Matthew 8:16 and Luke 4:40).
In chapter one, Mark declares what becomes a kind of theme for his book in verses 14-15:
14 Later on, after John was arrested by Herod Antipas, Jesus went to Galilee to preach God's Good News. 15 "At last the time has come!" he announced. "The Kingdom of God is near! Turn from your sins and believe this Good News!"
This is definitely the message for the church today. I look forward to exploring the rest of Mark with you.
peace,
e
