1. Roman Judea and the Gospel of Mark

2. In addition to proclaiming the “good news” the gospels sought to distinguish a Jewish Jesus from his Jewish background, to create an opposition between the followers of Jesus and other forms of first-century Judaism.

3. I. Political and Religious Context in First-Century Judea
II. The Gospel Narrative
III. Criticizing Other Sects and Authorities

4. I. Political and Religious Background in First-Century Judea
1. Roman Influence and Occupation
Judea became Roman tributary state c. 63 BCE
Herod installed as king c. 37 BCE
Direct Roman rule 6 CE
Mix of Tolerance and Tensions (See Josephus)
2. Jewish Religious and Social Diversity

7. 2. Jewish Religious and Social Diversity
Sadducees
Pharisees
Essenes
Zealots (and Sicarii)
Synagogues
Wisemen/Prophets

8. Model of the Second Temple and the Temple complex in Jerusalem in the time of Herod.

9. The Temple Mount today with the Dome of the Rock (a Muslim shrine), the al-Aqsa mosque, and remaining ancient and medieval walls.

10. II. Gospel Narrative 1. Jesus’ Preaching
The “Kingdom of God” is at hand
Teaches in Parables
2. Conflict with Sadducees, Pharisees, and Scribes
3. Passion and Crucifixion

11. III. Criticizing other Sects and Authorities
1. Selection of events and sayings for readers after 70 CE
2. The Gospel Genre
Melding an account of Jesus’ teaching with the story of his passion
3. Apocalyptic Writings
4. Refutation of Rabbinic Judaism