Meeting St. Mark Today: Understanding the Man, His Mission, and His Message

Making the Bible understandable is a real calling, and the late Daniel J. Harrington, a Roman Catholic priest, prolific writer, and professor of the New Testament at Boston College's School of Theology and Ministry, definitely had that gift.This book is one of five that gives a summary overview with a wee bit of interpretation to the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and the epistles of St. Paul. The books are short and to the point, and they are ideal to be read accompanied by the appropriate text in the New Testament.After an introduction, the central piece of the book is a succinct chapter-by-chapter summary of Mark, including a narrative analysis with attention to characters, their interactions, the plot, story structure, and the viewpoint of the narrator. The special charm of this book is that you will better understand the Gospel of Mark and no doubt come away with little bits of information you never knew.Mark's Gospel is thought to be the earliest of the four canonically approved Gospels, and compared to the other three it can be a bit stark with its primary focus on Jesus's passion and death. I had never thought of it this way, but Harrington describes it as a passion narrative with a long introduction, and that makes so much sense to me. For this reason, Mark's Gospel has been called the Gospel of Suffering.And here is the gem of this short book: The last section delves into why the Gospel of Mark is known as the Gospel of Suffering, exploring not only what Jesus suffered, but also why he suffered.Bonus: Harrington acknowledges in a way few Roman Catholic priests do the important role of the women who followed Jesus, especially Mary Magdalene.

This is a good discussion in a simple format. Addresses all of the issues but very quickly. It will tantalize you to read deeper books like R Brown's two volume set on the Gospel of John. John's gospel is extremely interesting and well worth understanding how it was created and its milieu. Harrington gives you a good introduction to the man, John, and his view of Jesus, and thereby a better understanding of who Jesus is.

Great study.

Not the book I was looking forinformative & lots of info

Excellent book and I am so glad that I was able to get a used copy to save $.

This is a very timely title because of the emphasis on St. Mark in this year's liturgy. The writer presents a Christian view point that is applicable to every Christian religion.

Must read for those who read the New Testament.

This is one in a series written by Daniel J. Harrington, SJ. It's a great companion when reading the Gospel of St. John and Letters. I recommend it.

This is one in a series written by Daniel J. Harrington, SJ. It's a great companion when reading the Gospel of St. Mark. I recommend it.

This is one of the best commentaries I have seen