This is the second of the synoptic gospels that also include Matthew and Luke. The three are considered closely related because they cover similar themes and events. Written around 60 A.D.(thirty years after the death of Jesus), it may be the first gospel written down, although it would not have been the first Christian book written. That honor belongs to Paul, who wrote some of his letters earlier than Mark. The book never says who the author is, but tradition claims it was John Mark, a missionary who accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their travels. Many believe the author got a great deal of his information from Peter because the book begins with the call of the disciples, it features the ministry at Capernaum (Peter’s home town), it leaves out positive aspects of Peter’s life, and it includes scenes that only Peter and a couple of other disciples were part of.

Mark stresses facts and action, not teachings or themes like Matthew did. Throughout the book there are phrases like “immediately,” “at once,” and  “quickly” that indicate fast-paced movement. His view of Jesus is a man of authority and accomplishments. That’s not surprising, considering his audience appears to be non-Jewish—it has few Old Testament quotations, there is little on Old Testament laws, it translates Aramaic terms that would be known to a Jewish audience, and it explains Jewish customs. There appears to be a missionary purpose for this book, which would be in keeping for someone who went on missionary trips himself.