Foundations: New Testament - MarkSample

All of Scripture points to the work and mission of Jesus, which seemed to have ended the day He hung on the cross at Calvary. At least that’s how things appeared to His disciples, who watched the promised Messiah die. Little did they know the cross was only the first scene of Jesus’ redemptive act. With His death on the cross, Jesus paid God’s penalty for the sins of the world, sins that required a blood sacrifice to purify sinners. However, Jesus didn’t remain in the grave. On the third day He rose from the dead and defeated death—the ultimate consequence of sin. 

Mark’s Gospel documents the moment when three of Jesus’ faithful followers, all women, showed up at the tomb to anoint His body. There they encountered an angel, who told them the news of Jesus’ resurrection. The angel also told them to take the news to the disciples and Peter, the same disciples who had deserted Jesus at the cross. God wanted this great news to be conveyed as an offer of restoration and forgiveness. Through the cross and resurrection of Jesus, God made a way for you—a sinful, broken son or daughter—to receive His forgiveness and grace and to be reunited with Him. 

The Gospel of Mark ends with Jesus’ appearances to the other disciples; His Great Commission to spread the gospel, the good news about Him, around the world; and His ascension to heaven. Throughout this book readers see a clear picture of Jesus, the Servant-King. He calls His followers to the same life of service and sacrifice, with the goal of drawing as many people as possible into a life-saving relationship with Him. 

If you would like to learn more about Foundations: New Testament by Robby and Kandi Gallaty, please visit LifeWay.com/Foundations.