The Beginning of the Gospel: A Theology of Mark (New Testament Theology)
Digital Logos Edition
Overview
Understanding Mark in the Context of the Old and New Testaments
The book of Mark—the first and shortest Gospel written—serves as both a historical and theological account, connecting Jesus to the whole storyline of the Bible. Mark writes against the backdrop of the Old Testament and draws from other New Testament writers, specifically Peter and Paul, to articulate many themes that are found in the rest of the New Testament.
In this addition to the New Testament Theology series, scholar Peter Orr offers an accessible summary of the theology of Mark, examining its relationship to both the Old and New Testaments. Each chapter focuses on a key theological theme—the identity of Christ, the announcement of the kingdom, the call to follow, and more—and explains how it is relevant for the church today.
Part of the New Testament Theology Series: Other volumes include The Joy of Hearing; The Mission of the Triune God; and United to Christ, Walking in the Spirit
Ideal for Anyone Wanting to Study the Bible More Deeply: Perfect for pastors, seminarians, college students, and laypeople
Written by Peter Orr: New Testament lecturer and author of Fight for Your Pastor
- Offers an accessible summary of the theology of Mark
- Examines the relationship to both the Old and New Testaments
- Focuses on key theological themes
- Series Preface
- Preface
- Introduction: The Beginning of the Gospel: Mark as Backstory
- Chapter 1: Divine Identity: Jesus Christ, the Son of God
- Chapter 2: Revelation: Written, Proclaimed, Received
- Chapter 3: The Kingdom of God is at Hand: Jesus and the New Creation
- Chapter 4: Repent and Believe the Gospel: Salvation through Jesus
- Chapter 5: Follow Me: Being a Disciple of Jesus
- Chapter 6: What Moses Commanded: Jesus, the Law, and the People of God
- Chapter 7: Died, Buried, and Raised: The Death and Resurrection of Jesus
- Epilogue: The End of the Beginning
- Recommended Resources
- Title: The Beginning of the Gospel: A Theology of Mark
- Author: Peter C. Orr
- Series: New Testament Theology
- Publisher: Crossway
- Print Publication Date: 2023
- Logos Release Date: 2022
- Pages: 184
- Era: era:contemporary
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
- Subject: Bible. N.T. Mark › Theology
- ISBNs: 9781433575310, 9781433575341, 9781433575327, 9781433575334, 1433575310, 1433575345, 1433575329, 1433575337, 9798891534629
- Resource ID: LLS:BGNNNGGSPLTSTTH
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Metadata Last Updated: 2025-08-31T22:09:34Z
Reviews
0 ratings
Spencer Robinson
7/22/2025
You can read the longer review at SpoiledMilks (04/27/23). In Beginning Gospel Theology: Mark, Peter Orr explores the rich theology of Mark’s Gospel by tying its themes to both Jewish background and Pauline influence. Drawing from tradition and Scripture, Orr proposes that Mark’s theological formation was shaped not only by Peter but also by Paul. Orr sees Jesus’ death as an apocalyptic unveiling, not just salvation but revelation, paralleling Paul’s depiction in 1 Corinthians. Mark’s Gospel proclaims a kingdom now breaking in and a King recognized even by outsiders. Orr examines divine identity, Jesus’ authority, the law, discipleship, and salvation, showing that Jesus is both the long-awaited Davidic king and Yahweh himself. His argument against adoptionist readings of Mark—such as those from J. R. Daniel Kirk—is especially strong. The book carefully walks readers through how the Gospel works theologically while remaining readable. Orr does not overwhelm with details but gives enough to stimulate further study and preaching. Highly recommended for anyone serious about understanding how Mark fits in the broader biblical storyline. Review Disclosure: I received this book free from Crossway for an honest review.
