Considered the earliest of the New Testament Gospel of Mark announces the good news of the fulfilment of God's redemptive purposes in the life and ministry of Jesus. By gradually revealing the identity of Jesus as Messiah and Son of God, the narrative strips away any militaristic ideas popularly associated with messiahship. For Mark, the humiliation of the cross, with all its torture and horror, points to Jesus as a Messiah who gives his life on the cross and who calls his disciples to do likewise. In spite of the disciples' failures, which are unflinchingly displayed, the Gospel ends on the high note of hope found at the empty tomb.

Kent Brower expertly delves into this Gospel, carefully reflecting on its literary and historical setting, in this case, the Second Temple period.

The New Beacon Bible Commentary is an engaging, indispensable reference tool to aid individuals in every walk of life in the study and meditation of God's Word. Written from the Wesleyan theological perspective, it offers insight and perceptive scholarship to help you unlock the deeper truths of Scripture and garner an awareness of the history, culture, and context attributed to each book of study. Readable, relevant, and academically thorough, it offers scholars, pastors, and laity a new standard for understanding and interpreting the Bible in the 21st century.