Mark: An Introduction and Study Guide: Shaping the Life and Legacy of Jesus

(Paperback)

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Description

This Guide reads the Gospel of Mark as a 1st-century CE story about Jesus, for his followers, and against tyranny or the abusive use of power. First, the book shows students how the Gospel uses the form of a traditional laudatory biography (a Life) to reshape the memory of the shame-ridden trials and suffering of Jesus. Such a biography portrayed Jesus descent (as a son of God), his deeds, and his heroic death, dispelling any notion that the teacher Jesus was a charlatan or huckster. Second, Smith demonstrates how the Gospel devotes a great deal of space to Jesus training of his disciples - as he calls, commissions, and corrects them in preparation for the difficult moments of their journey. Third, Smith highlights the Gospels special characterizations of Jesus - as a prophetic envoy, a man of authority, and a philosophical hero - contrasting Jesus use of power with the abusive use of power by Romes representatives (Herod Antipas and Pilate).

Reviews

[A] very worthwhile contribution ... This volume would form an excellent basis for a set of Bible study group sessions. * The Catholic Herald *
Smith's book is rich in wel-informed Christological insight and speculation ... Those who are keen to bring their existing literary and theological grip of the bluntest and most vivid canonical gospel back to the boil in time for Year B are likely to see their engagement with Smith's ideas as a useful exercise. * The Reader *

Author Bio

Abraham Smith is Professor of New Testament at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, Texas, USA.