John Mark Flashcards
Who wrote the gospel of Mark?
John Mark
Who were John Mark’s parents/family members?
John Mark was the son of Mary and Barnabas’ cousin. (Acts 12:12 and Colossians 4:10)
What role did John Mark’s mother’s house play in the early church?
Her house was a meeting place for prayer. (Acts 12:12)
Who was John Mark’s mentor and spiritual father?
Peter (1 Peter 5:13)
When did John Mark write his gospel?
Approximately 55-60 AD. Some historians date all the gospels after 70 AD. Since Jesus predicted the fall of Jerusalem in Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21, and historians like Josephus confirm that the city fell in A.D. 70, it seems reasonable to assume that if such a significant prophecy had been fulfilled before the Gospels were written, it would have been explicitly mentioned, much like the fulfilled prophecy of Christ’s resurrection.
Did John Mark have any influence in writing his gospel?
Nearly all the material of his gospel came from Peter’s preaching.
How old was John Mark during Jesus’ ministry?
The young boy that runs away naked when Judas betrays Jesus is only mentioned in the gospel of Mark. It is assumed that the young boy is John Mark. (Mark 14:50-52)
How old was John Mark when he wrote his gospel?
Assuming he was the young boy in Mark 14:50-52, John Mark was in his late 30’s when he wrote his gospel.
What is the primary theme of the Gospel of Mark?
Jesus as the Suffering Servant and Son of God
For whom was the Gospel of Mark primarily written?
Gentiles, especially Romans.
What sets the Gospel of Mark apart in terms of length?
It is the shortest gospel.
What does the Gospel of Mark emphasize more than Jesus’ teachings?
His actions and miracles. As a young boy during these events, miracles would have stood out more in his memory than the words of the discourses.
What narrative technique is commonly used in the Gospel of Mark?
A fast-paced and action-oriented style with urgent storytelling that propels the narrative forward quickly.
What phrase/word is frequently used in the Gospel of Mark?
Immediately.
How much content of Mark’s gospel appears in Matthew’s gospel?
More then 90%.
How much content of Mark’s gospel appears in Luke’s gospel?
More than 50%.
Who did John Mark accompany on their first missionary journey?
Paul and Barnabas (Acts 13:5)
How was John Mark uniquely qualified to go with Paul and Barnabas on the first missionary journey?
John Mark was the only one out of three that was an eye witness to some of the event in Jesus’ life.
Why did Paul not want to take John Mark on the second missionary journey?
Because John Mark abandoned the first missionary journey, likely because he was discouraged by a fruitless time with demonic opposition in Cyprus. (Acts 13:4-13)
How did Barnabas respond to Paul’s criticism of Mark?
He took John Mark with him on a separate journey to Cyprus. (Acts15:39)
How did Paul describe John Mark after their reconciliation?
As a fellow worker and useful/helpful for ministry. (Philemon 1:24 and 2 Timothy 4:11)
In which city did Paul write to request Mark’s assistance?
While imprisoned in Rome near the end of his life, Paul asked Timothy to come to him and bring John Mark.
Where is John Mark traditionally believed to have preached and founded a church?
Alexandria, Egypt according the Catholic tradition.
How did John Mark die?
According to Catholic tradition, John Mark was martyred in Alexandria, Egypt, by being tied and dragged through the streets until he died.
What three key lessons can we learn from John Mark’s life?
1) Our past mistakes do not disqualify us from being used by God.
2) Being mentored by mature believers can help us grow spiritually and fulfill our calling.
3) God calls us to pursue reconciliation and unity within the body of Christ.
