I find that the pace of the Gospel of Mark is such that it is useful in keeping the newer Christian focused.

As an example, read through the first chapter.

Note how many times the word "immediately" ("staightway," "forthwith," "anon"--all the same Greek word) is used in just the first chapter. Mark writes from the perspective of "Christ as Servant" and His service is one of almost non-stop action. In the first chapter we can study about John the Baptist, the Baptism of Jesus, His temptation, the Calling of His disciples, Casting out demons, preaching in Galilee, and healing a leper.

It does not contain the more difficult "theological" passages like John 6 (which, IMHO is difficult enough for the mature Christian to grasp) or the mystery parables of Matthew13. But it is profoundly theological.

In this book I find twin themes that run through out. Opposition to the Servant, and the Diety of the Servant. It is a wonderful little study, to go through this book with a non-christian, or a new believer and point out that every time the pharisees oppose Him, He meets that opposition with some aspect of His deity. (example: In chapter two...the Pharisees complain that the disciples ate picked some wheat on the Sabbath, Jesus declares himself "Lord also of the Sabbath.") When opposition comes, Jesus meets it with His divinity. His victories over opposition show so clearly that He is the second person of the Godhead that only a Pharisee could miss it.

It really is a most profitable study, and by the time the new Christian gets to chapter 16, enough foundational truths have been laid, that it is easier after that to look at the Gospel of John, or some of the other more difficult Books.

__________________
Sterling Harmon
Coventry, CT
PCA
Deacon
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"Whatever is laudable in our works proceeds from the grace of God."
-- John Calvin, Institutes III:xv.3.

"Our Lord God must be a good man, to be fond of worthless fellows. I cannot like them, and yet I, myself, am one."
-- Martin Luther, Table Talk