People of the Bible: Mark

Mark is a prominent figure in the Bible, best known as the author of the Gospel of Mark, the second book in the New Testament. Also referred to as John Mark in Scripture, he played an important role in the early Christian church. Although Mark was not an eyewitness to Jesus’ ministry, his close relationship with the Apostle Peter enabled him to record a Gospel deeply influenced by Peter’s firsthand accounts.

Mark was the son of a woman named Mary, who hosted early Christian gatherings in her home in Jerusalem (Acts 12:12). He accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey (Acts 12:25; 13:5), but left them halfway through and returned to Jerusalem (Acts 13:13). This departure later led to a disagreement between Paul and Barnabas (Acts 15:36–40). While Paul was initially disappointed by Mark’s withdrawal, their relationship was later restored. Paul later mentions Mark as a valuable co-worker, referring to him with affection (2 Timothy 4:11; Philemon 1:24).

The Gospel of Mark is widely believed to have been written between AD 50–70, making it the earliest of the four Gospels. Early church tradition, particularly the testimony of Papias (2nd century), states that Mark wrote down Peter’s teachings and recollections of Jesus. Mark’s Gospel emphasizes the actions of Jesus, highlighting His miracles, ministry, and servanthood. It is fast-paced and frequently uses the word “immediately” to convey a sense of urgency. In this Gospel, Jesus is portrayed as both the Son of God and the suffering servant, underscoring His humanity and divinity.

Church traditions suggest that Mark later became a missionary in Egypt, particularly in Alexandria, where he is said to have established a Christian community. Some traditions claim that Mark was martyred for his faith in Alexandria, although the specifics of his death are debated.

Mark’s close relationship with Peter is reflected in 1 Peter 5:13, where Peter refers to him as “my son.” According to early church tradition, Mark acted as Peter’s scribe, recording the Apostle’s teachings and eyewitness accounts of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. This tradition forms the foundation of the belief that Mark’s Gospel reflects the perspective and experiences of Peter, offering a unique view of Jesus’ ministry through the eyes of one of His closest disciples.