Most scholars agree that the Gospel according to Mark is the earliest of the four canonical gospels. It is also the shortest, with swift dramatic turns throughout its fast-paced narrative. Because of its brevity, Markâs Gospel leaves many questions unanswered, and it has often been overlooked in the history of Christianity.
As you will discover, though, Markâs Gospel is compelling in its combination of simplicity and sophistication. This audio course guides you through Markâs Gospel sequentially, offering you fresh insights and a deeper understanding of its overall shape and message. Prof. Ian Boxall, a celebrated New Testament scholar who taught at Oxford for twenty years, presents each lecture with an erudite yet accessible style.
This Bible study course will help you become a more perceptive reader of Markâs challenging book. Under Prof. Boxallâs expert guidance, you will explore what makes the Gospel of Mark unique. You will meet major and minor characters alike, and you will come to appreciate the âuntamedâ aspects of this Gospel, which embody the traditional symbol for St. Mark: the Lion. Along the way, you will explore such fascinating topics as Markâs presentation of Jesus, his use of parables, his symbolic use of geography, and his depiction of the disciples.