The Beginning

Mark 1:1

Mark 1:1 is the title for the Gospel of Mark. As we begin our study in the Gospel of Mark, allow that title verse to set the stage for understanding the central messages of the book:

1. The entire book is called a "beginning." The original ending of Mark's gospel was almost certainly Mark 16:1–8. Read that passage. Discuss how this news is a "beginning."
   
2. In 1:1, the beginning is called "good news." This was a term used for a kingly announcement. What kind of "bad news" was currently in the world when Jesus came? See the following texts to help you:
   • 1:23–24
   • 1:29–34
   • 2:15–17
   What kinds of bad news exist in our own day about which Jesus would say, "I must come to make that right"?
   
3. The good news comes specifically from Jesus. Our title verse identifies him with two significant terms:
   a. Messiah – This was the term for the divinely anointed ruler prophesied in the Old Testament. He would right the wrongs in the world. Why do you think that it is so important to know that Jesus was and is the Messiah?
   b. Son of God –This is a term Jesus' contemporaries often used for the sometimes-mysterious presence of God in Old Testament settings (as in Daniel 3:22–25). Why is it important that Jesus is identified in this way?
   
4. Discuss why it is important to you that
   • good news is still promised for you and this world and
   • Jesus is your Messiah and the Son of God.
   

2012 Study Series • Copyright © 2012, Lake Avenue Church