Mark 13 and the Return of the Shepherd: The Narrative Logic of Zechariah in Mark

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Paul T. Sloan presents a detailed interpretation of Marks Olivet Discourse in light of the Gospels many allusions to the book of Zechariah, and argues that previous studies have rightly demonstrated the influence of Zechariah 914 on the Passion Narratives. Sloan shows that this influence is not merely confined to Marks description of Jesus final week, but also permeates much of his narrative; informing the Gospels presentation of Jesus royal identity, his action in the temple, the role of suffering in the bringing of Gods kingdom, and the arrangement and interpretation of the Olivet Discourse. Sloan begins with an extensive review of scholarship on the presence of Zechariah in Mark before analyzing the reception of relevant texts from Zechariah in Second Temple literature. He proceeds to a fresh examination of potential allusions to Zechariah throughout Mark, focusing especially on Marks use of Zechariah 13:7 and 14:5. In addition to influencing significant themes in Marks Gospel, Sloan argues that Zechariah provides a helpful framework by which to interpret Mark 13, offering a potential solution to a notorious crux interpretum, namely, why Jesus answers a question about the temple with reference to the coming of the son of man.

Reviews

This book is enjoyable to read. It is an excellent application of deep, thick analysis of textual correspondences ... Furthermore, the narrative thrust to his understanding of Mark is fascinating, and in my opinion is the major contribution of this work ... The fit of Sloans argument is elegant; it works with available material for the author and original readers, and is coherent in that interpretive universe. * Reviews of Biblical and Early Christian Studies *
Scholars and teachers would greatly benefit from Sloans proposal. I hope this will lead other scholars to take on his arguments and answer other puzzling questions If your interests lie in Mark, you should consider picking up Sloans book. * Spoiledmilks *

Author Bio

Paul Sloan is a PhD candidate at the University of St. Andrews, UK.