NCBC: Mark

This volume provides a comprehensive, accessible introduction to the Gospel of
Mark, now widely considered the first recorded treatment of Jesus. Darrell Bock
explains how this text, once the least-used gospel, came to be regarded as the
starting point for understanding Jesus. Drawing together previous arguments and
discussion in a constructive summary, he traces the significance of Mark and
addresses key features such as its cultural and historical background, its
narrative flow, and the role of Greek in supplying meaning. This commentary
highlights the issues Mark's gospel raises and develops Mark's message
surrounding Jesus' claims of kingdom authority and salvation, the call to
disciples to follow him, and the preparation of those disciples to face
suffering in light of their choice. Mark will be a valuable resource for
students, teachers, and pastors alike.

Series: New Cambridge Bible Commentary.

In contrast to commentaries that waste space on personal speculation, " every page of Bock's commentary reflects critical engagement with sources. Bock
interacts thoughtfully, respectfully, and thoroughly with a range of current
scholars, in a way helpful for readers and especially those working with a
limited range of Mark commentaries. He explores the background and also the
meaning of texts in a way that preachers as well as scholars will find
useful. - Craig S. Keener"