Book Description
Mark, the second and shortest Gospel, is far from second-rate or short-sighted. This commentary by F. Scott Spencer provides a lively literary and theological reading of Mark’s remarkable story of the “good news of God” embodied in Jesus Christ. It carefully tracks the developing characters, unfolding plot, and key themes marking the “way” of God from Jesus’s baptism to his empty tomb, with a special eye to surprising detours and crossroads along the way—impelling Jesus to a literal cross.
Spencer uses a variety of analytical methods, paying special attention to intertextual links between Mark and the Old Testament. Mark’s edgy emotional portrait of Jesus and other characters displays poignant elements of anger, anguish, grief, frustration, fear, and other “passions.” Throughout the narrative, Jesus engages in life-and-death battles with oppressive forces, spiritual and political, giving his life to liberate (redeem) weak and vulnerable persons. Mark’s passionate, powerful message continues to challenge and encourage readers today.
Book Reviews
Scott Spencer stands out among commentators by accompanying us through the experience of reading Mark with its twists, turns, and subtle hints. Always mindful of Mark as a narrative about Jesus as the embodiment of God’s action in the world, Spencer reminds us that Jesus’s story is not just about ideas but also about believing, living, and growing in community.
—Greg Carey
Professor of New Testament
Lancaster Theological Seminary
Spencer, widely known and respected for his scholarship on Luke, brings his expertise in the Synoptic tradition to this excellent guide to understanding the Gospel of Mark. Truth be told, academic commentaries aren’t known for being page-turners, but Spencer defies these expectations with his engaging and witty writing style. When I teach or preach on Mark, this will be one of the first resources I consult.
—Nijay K. Gupta
Professor of New Testament
Northern Seminary
Spencer delivers an accessible and thoroughgoing literary and theological reading of Mark. His skillful analysis of the narrative elements and attention to characters’ emotions showcase how Mark’s story connects with its readers. No one can consult Reading Mark and hold this Gospel at arm’s length.
—Elizabeth E. Shively
St Mary’s College
University of St. Andrews, Scotland
In this highly readable commentary, F. Scott Spencer deftly guides readers through the narrative of Mark’s Gospel, making clear the beauty and brilliance of this oft under-appreciated account of Jesus’s life!
—Matthew Thiessen
McMaster University