Gospel of Mark Bible Part 1: Introduction [Bible Study]
- Rev. Bruce A. Shields
- Jan 5
- 2 min read
Bible Study: Introduction to the Gospel of Mark
Mark 1:1 — “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.”
Opening Prayer
Lord, as we open the Gospel of Mark, give us understanding of its message, wisdom to apply it, and hearts ready to serve as Jesus served. Amen.
READ
Mark 1:1(Read aloud from your Bible.)
OBSERVE
Background of the Book
Author: John Mark — cousin of Barnabas (Colossians 4:10), companion of Paul and Peter.
Date: Written between A.D. 50–63, likely before 64 A.D.
Audience: Primarily Gentiles, especially Christians in Rome.
Theme: Jesus, the Servant of Man (Mark 10:45).
Structure:
Preparation for ministry (Mark 1:2–13)
Ministry in Galilee (Mark 1:14–9:50)
Journey to Jerusalem (Mark 10:1–52)
Ministry in Jerusalem (Mark 11:1–13:37)
Suffering and death (Mark 14:1–15:47)
Resurrection and appearances (Mark 16:1–13)
Great Commission and continued service in heaven (Mark 16:14–20)
INTERPRET
Key Lesson 1 — Jesus is the Perfect Servant.
Mark focuses more on what Jesus did than what He said.
Records 19 miracles but only 4 parables.
Shows Christ as one who “did not come to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45).
Key Lesson 2 — The Gospel is for all people.
Explains Jewish customs (Mark 7:3–4).
Translates Aramaic phrases for Greek readers (Mark 5:41).
Uses Roman time references (Mark 13:35).
Key Lesson 3 — God redeems failure.
Mark abandoned Paul and Barnabas early (Acts 13:5, 13) but later became “useful for ministry” (2 Timothy 4:11).
His life encourages believers that early mistakes don’t disqualify them from future service.
APPLY
Reflection Questions:
How does seeing Jesus as a servant change how you follow Him?
In what ways can you serve others more intentionally this week?
Have you experienced failure in ministry or faith? How does Mark’s story encourage you to persevere?
Practical Steps:
This week, choose one act of service that requires no recognition, following Christ’s example.
Study one miracle from Mark and ask: “What does this reveal about Jesus’ character?”
CROSS REFERENCES FOR DEEPER STUDY
Acts 10:36–39 — Peter’s summary of Jesus’ works.
Galatians 5:13 — Called to serve one another in love.
Hebrews 7:25 — Jesus continues to serve in heaven.
2 Timothy 2:19–22 — Being a vessel useful to the Master.
CONCLUSION
The Gospel of Mark presents Jesus as the tireless Servant who still works for His people today. It calls us not only to believe in Him but to follow His example of humble, active service. Like Mark, we can overcome failure and become useful for the Master.
Closing Prayer
Father, thank You for the example of Jesus, our Servant King. Help us to serve with humility, perseverance, and love, that others might see Christ in us. Amen.
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