Mark : An Introduction and Study Guide: Shaping the Life and Legacy of Jesus

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).

Abraham Smith is Professor of New Testament at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, Texas, USA.

Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean, Professor of New Testament, Pacific School of Religion, 1798 Scenic Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94709