This is a fascinating introductory book for studying the Gospels. It includes a simple presentation of contemporary scriptural interpretation of Mark's Gospel, resource notes, and compelling new insights for clergy, biblical readers, and study groups.
The earliest of the four Gospels, the book portrays Jesus as an enigmatic figure, struggling with enemies, his inner and external demons, and with his devoted but disconcerted disciples. Unlike other gospels, his parables are obscure, to be explained secretly to his followers. With an introduction by Nick Cave
This new Pillar volume offers exceptional commentary on Mark that clearly shows the second Gospel though it was a product of the earliest Christian community to be both relevant and sorely needed in today's church. Written by a biblical scholar who has devoted thirty years to the study of the second Gospel, this commentary aims primarily to interpret the Gosepl of Mark according to its theological intentions and purposes, especially as they relate to the life and ministry of Jesus and the call to faith and discipleship. Unique features of James Edwards's approach include clear descriptions of key terms used by Mark and revealing discussion of the Gospel's literary features, including Mark's use of the "sandwich" technique and of imagistic motifs and irony. Edwards also proposes a new paradigm for interpreting the difficult "Little Apocalypse" of chapter 13, and he argues for a new understanding of Mark's controversial ending.
The debate continues among today's leading Bible scholars about the conspicuous exclusion of twelve verses (16:9-20) in the gospel of Mark from some early Greek manuscripts.
The NIV is the world's best-selling modern translation, with over 150 million copies in print since its first full publication in 1978. This highly accurate and smooth-reading version of the Bible in modern English has the largest library of printed and electronic support material of any modern translation.
"Magisterial. . . . A learned, brilliant and enjoyable study."—Géza Vermès, Times Literary Supplement In this exciting book, Paula Fredriksen explains the variety of New Testament images of Jesus by exploring the ways that the new Christian communities interpreted his mission and message in light of the delay of the Kingdom he had preached. This edition includes an introduction reviews the most recent scholarship on Jesus and its implications for both history and theology. "Brilliant and lucidly written, full of original and fascinating insights."—Reginald H. Fuller, Journal of the American Academy of Religion "This is a first-rate work of a first-rate historian."—James D. Tabor, Journal of Religion "Fredriksen confronts her documents—principally the writings of the New Testament—as an archaeologist would an especially rich complex site. With great care she distinguishes the literary images from historical fact. As she does so, she explains the images of Jesus in terms of the strategies and purposes of the writers Paul, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John."—Thomas D’Evelyn, Christian Science Monitor
Peter Bolt explores the impact of Mark's Gospel on early readers in the first-century Graeco-Roman world. Focusing upon the thirteen characters in Mark who come to Jesus for healing or exorcism, Bolt analyzes their crucial role in the communication of the Gospel. Enlisting a variety of ancient literary and non-literary sources, this book recreates the first-century world of illness, magic and Roman imperialism. This new approach to Mark combines reader-response criticism with social history.
A Straightforward Overview of the Entire New Testament Studying the Bible can be overwhelming, and many resources overcomplicate the process. Author and Bible teacher Zach Windahl offers a simple, streamlined approach that takes you through every book of the New Testament in 60 days. With handy overviews and daily entries that contain a breakdown of passages to read, thoughtful teaching points, and personal application questions--all organized in an eye-catching design--this book will help you · see the big-picture story of the entire Bible · learn to engage with Scripture confidently · cultivate a deeper relationship with God Not only will you come away with a better understanding of Jesus and His heart for you, but you will also discover a better sense of meaning and purpose for your life.
An important contribution to our understanding of Marcan irony, and combines a literary-critical approach with insights gained from the sociology of knowledge.
Bible Understanding Made Easy is a series of books used to inspire and teach the Word of God to sincere souls who are trying to draw closer to God. This volume is dedicated to building an understanding of the life of Jesus Christ through the book of Mark. Learn of the love of Jesus, His history, miracles, and compassion for mankind in simple, easy-to-read language. The method of teaching used in this book was purposely kept as simple as possible so beginning students of the Bible can be inspired and build a rich foundation of understanding the Bible that will last a lifetime! Learn at your own pace or use this great teaching tool to inspire others!