The Gospel of Mark (New Testament Commentary)

Description

William Hendriksen’s New Testament Commentary: The Gospel of Mark provides a rich and detailed analysis of Mark’s Gospel, emphasizing its unique characteristics and theological significance. Below is a summary of the book:

Overview of Mark’s Gospel
Hendriksen highlights that Mark’s Gospel, likely written between AD 40 and 65, is distinct for its compactness, vividness, and orderliness. It is often described as the “action Gospel” due to its fast-paced narrative and lively details not found in other Gospels. Mark portrays Jesus as an active, conquering King who triumphs over nature, disease, demons, and even death, appealing particularly to Roman readers with their admiration for power and conquest.

Purpose and Audience
Mark’s Gospel was composed to address the spiritual needs of early Christians in Rome while also providing a universal message for the Greek-speaking world. Hendriksen argues that the Gospel is not merely a historical account but has a doctrinal and practical aim—to inspire transformation and living for God’s glory. Mark translates Semitic terms into Greek and explains Jewish customs, indicating his audience included Gentiles unfamiliar with Jewish traditions.

Key Themes
Jesus’ Authority: Mark emphasizes Jesus’ divine authority through miracles, teaching, and His ability to forgive sins (e.g., calming storms, healing diseases, casting out demons).

Faith and Discipleship: The Gospel challenges readers to respond to Jesus in faith, highlighting moments of belief and unbelief among His followers.

Suffering Servant: Jesus is portrayed as both the authoritative Son of God and the suffering Messiah who sacrifices Himself for humanity.

Vivid Style
Hendriksen notes Mark’s vivid storytelling style, likely influenced by Peter’s dynamic preaching. Unique details enrich the narrative, such as descriptions of Jesus among wild beasts during His temptation or the emotional intensity of miracles like the healing of the Gerasene demoniac.

Practical Application
Hendriksen emphasizes that Mark’s Gospel serves as an enduring guide for Christians worldwide. It reveals Jesus as Lord over all creation and calls believers to live in faith, hope, and obedience to Him. The commentary avoids excessive technicalities while addressing theological challenges thoroughly.

This commentary is part of Hendriksen’s broader series on New Testament books, maintaining his high standards of scholarship while being accessible to both lay readers and theologians.