An ancient author typically began a biography with a story that revealed the most important characteristics of his subject. How does Mark's beginning show Jesus' identity? How do some of Mark's opening themes play out in the rest of the Gospel?

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The Answer is The first verse of Mark informs the reader that Jesus is the Christ, the messiah, the one anointed or chosen by God. Throughout his Gospel, Mark shows that the messiah was not what the Jews had anticipated (i.e., a king, a cosmic or priestly figure). Jesus, the righteous sufferer, was the messiah who was sent by God to die for the sins of humanity. In this Gospel, no one recognizes Jesus' true identity because he did not come in the guise that was expected. It was not until his death that his followers understood who he was. The Gospel opens with Jesus' baptism, an event that confirms his relationship with God Because it is then that God declares that Jesus is his son. Immediately following the baptism, Jesus goes to the desert and resists temptation by Satan. When Jesus begins his public ministry, Mark underscores Jesus' authority over demons and disease. In addition, his authority is so great that men stop what they are doing to follow him. These stories illustrate Jesus' strength, authority, and his relationship to God.

An Ancient Author Typically Began a Biography with a Story