How to Read the Gospel of Mark

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How to Read the Gospel of Mark — 15-Day Plan

About 90% of Mark’s content appears in the other Gospels, yet Mark is an ideal starting point for anyone new to Jesus. Its style—short, simple sentences without long speeches—makes it easy to read, like a fast-moving news report. Many believe Mark first served as a missionary book for people who knew very little about the new Christian faith.

Except when citing Jesus’ own words, Mark directly quotes the Old Testament in only one place (Mark 1:2–3). He also avoids detailed references to the Mosaic Law—very different from the other Gospels. These clues suggest a non-Jewish audience, likely Romans, who valued brevity, action, and clarity.

How to Read Mark (It’s Simple!)

Mark’s breezy style makes it as understandable as a newspaper. The book loosely follows the chronology of Jesus’ life, so it’s an excellent introduction. As you read, pause and reflect:

  • Why did Mark choose these events?
  • What did they mean to people in Jesus’ day?
  • How do they speak to you right now?

People You’ll Meet in Mark

James — one of the Twelve, a fisherman called by Jesus, present for key moments like the Transfiguration. Watch how the disciples learn, stumble, and grow as Jesus moves toward the cross.

3-Track Reading Plan

Track 1: Two-Week Courses on the Bible (Life & Teachings of Jesus)

This overview track includes two key chapters from Mark to accompany a broader study on Jesus’ life and teaching.

Track 2: Overview of Mark in 15 Days

Read all 16 chapters in ~2 weeks for a quick, action-oriented summary of Jesus’ mission on earth.

  1. Day 1: Read this introduction, then Mark 1.
  2. Day 2: Mark 2 — scenes from a season of popular acclaim.
  3. Day 3: Mark 3 — Jesus calls the Twelve.
  4. Day 4: Mark 4 — brief parables and the calming of the storm.
  5. Day 5: Mark 5 — three healings; note how different crowds respond.
  6. Day 6: Mark 6 — famous miracles and John the Baptist’s beheading.
  7. Day 7: Mark 7 — Pharisees’ opposition begins to mount.
  8. Day 8: Mark 8 — rising popularity and growing tension.
  9. Day 9: Mark 9 — the Transfiguration and other events.
  10. Day 10: Mark 10 — teaching on divorce, humility, wealth.
  11. Day 11: Mark 11 — Jesus enters Jerusalem for the final week.
  12. Day 12: Mark 12 — teaching on various topics.
  13. Day 13: Mark 13 — Jesus’ predictions about the end of the world.
  14. Day 14: Mark 14 — events leading to arrest and the Jewish trial.
  15. Day 15: Mark 15–16 — crucifixion, burial, resurrection.

Track 3: Reflective Prompts (Optional)

  • Where do you see Jesus’ authority (over sickness, nature, evil)?
  • How do different people respond to Jesus (crowds, disciples, leaders)?
  • What does discipleship cost in Mark, and how does that shape your life?

Key Takeaways

  • Start simple: Mark’s pace and plain style help new readers grasp Jesus quickly.
  • Look for action: Mark highlights what Jesus does as much as what He says.
  • Respond personally: Each scene invites trust, repentance, and following.

How to read Mark, Gospel of Mark reading plan, Mark Bible study, Mark overview, read the Gospel of Mark, introduction to Mark, Mark for beginners.

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