Mark’s Opening remarks

The First Words of Mark set the stage... Jesus is the Savior of Man and the Servant of God He is the Messiah, the very Son of God He is our Messiah, the only way to God In Mark 1 we find...  Jesus affirms His sonship in the wilderness  The beginning of the public hostility with Satan Mark’s Opening remarks

The title of the book – v 1 Mark introduces Jesus not through the nativity as a child, but as an adult ready to act “Gospel” was not created by Christians  It was used to describe Christ’s effect on them  It is the core and purpose of Mark’s message Mark’s Opening remarks

Jesus’ preparation for ministry – vv 2-13 The ministry of John the Baptist – vv 2-8  The purpose and place of his ministry – vv 2-3 John’s ministry is one of preparation The desert is a significant place to the Jews The Spirit will be a significant person in Mark Mark’s Opening remarks

 The introduction of John the Baptist – vv 4-6 He was west and north of Judea He baptized after evidence of repentance  The change was of mind and behavior  The change opened the way to salvation Many responded to John’s proclamations Mark’s Opening remarks

 The ministry and message of John – vv 7-8 Mark’s summary is brief It stresses the arrival of One who will be greater than John, like a slave to his master The difference in baptisms shows who is superior He said the one to come would bring the very righteousness and judgment of God Mark’s Opening remarks

The baptism of Jesus – vv 9-11  The event – v 9 Jesus was no one from nowhere Jesus was baptized to identify with mankind Jesus associated His baptism with His death. He was probably about 30 years old Mark’s Opening remarks

 The affirmation of Jesus’ authority – vv Mark uses “immediately” 42 times The heavens were “torn” open (Isaiah 64:1) The dove descending was a symbol of humility The Father’s voice expressed approval of Jesus Jesus officially began His public ministry here Mark’s Opening remarks

The obedience and strength of Jesus – vv  His temptation prepared Him for ministry  This was connected closely with the baptism  The wilderness was associated with a curse  Jesus’ trials proved His character  God didn’t leave His Son alone in temptation Mark’s Opening remarks

Last Words Mark stresses the humility and faithfulness of Jesus Christ in the opening of his gospel Jesus was fully human, but aided by the Father and the Holy Spirit – an example for believers! Jesus was also fully God, able to resist Satan Mark spoke to the Romans then and speaks to us now withauthority. Will we listen? Mark’s Opening remarks