Mark: An Introduction and Study Guide (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781350008878)

This Guide reads the Gospel of Mark as a 1st-century CE story about Jesus, for his followers, and against tyranny or the abusive use of power.

First, the book shows students how the Gospel uses the form of a traditional laudatory biography (a 'Life') to reshape the memory of the shame-ridden trials and suffering of Jesus. Such a biography portrayed Jesus' descent (as a son of God), his deeds, and his heroic death, dispelling any notion that the teacher Jesus was a charlatan or huckster.

Second, Smith demonstrates how the Gospel devotes a great deal of space to Jesus' training of his disciples - as he calls, commissions, and corrects them in preparation for the difficult moments of their journey.

Third, Smith highlights the Gospel's special characterizations of Jesus - as a prophetic envoy, a man of authority, and a philosophical hero - contrasting Jesus' use of power with the abusive use of power by Rome's representatives (Herod Antipas and Pilate).

Author: Abraham Smith
ISBN-10: 1350008877
ISBN-13: 9781350008878
Publisher: Continnuum-3PL
Language: English
Published: 01/12/2017
Pages: 112
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.30lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.10w x 0.30d