Mark
Audience
This Gospel identifies its subject as Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and follows His ministry toward the cross and resurrection. No particular original recipient is named in its opening.
Key References
Explore the Structure
Explore the structure of each book.
| Section | Focus | Connection to the whole |
|---|---|---|
| The ministry prepared Mark 1:1–13 Interpretation | John, baptism, and temptation | The brief opening introduces Jesus and His forerunner, moving rapidly toward the proclamation of the kingdom. |
| Authority and opposition Mark 1:14–3:6 Interpretation | Teaching, deliverance, and conflict | Jesus' works and teaching draw followers while controversies bring the first explicit plot against Him. |
| The expanding ministry Mark 3:7–8:26 Interpretation | Disciples, crowds, and understanding | Teaching, mighty works, and varied responses repeatedly expose both Jesus' authority and the disciples' difficulty understanding. |
| The way to Jerusalem Mark 8:27–10:52 Interpretation | The Messiah's suffering and following | Peter's confession is followed by repeated passion predictions and teaching that redefines greatness and discipleship through service. |
| Jerusalem and coming judgment Mark 11:1–13:37 Interpretation | Temple conflict and watchfulness | Jesus' actions and disputes in Jerusalem lead into His teaching about coming troubles and the command to watch. |
| Passion and resurrection Mark 14:1–16:20 Interpretation | Death, the empty tomb, and proclamation | Betrayal, trial, and crucifixion lead to the resurrection proclamation and commission recorded in the KJV's final chapter. |
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.