The Narrative Integrity of Mark 13:24–27

by Peter G. Bolt

Publisher:

Wipf and Stock

, 2021

Overview

Applying a literary and reader-oriented approach, this book asks what the Gospel of Mark refers to when it promises “the coming of the Son of Man” (13:24-27). This reading not only provides the solution to the various difficulties in understanding those verses, but, unlike other readings, it allows Mark 13:24-27 to be read as an integral part of the Gospel according to Mark. An examination of the wider narrative of the Gospel and Mark 13 itself, both in form and function as well as in its many details, demonstrates that these verses raise expectations that are then shown to be fulfilled in Jesus’ death, resurrection, and launch of the gentile mission. As contemporary Christians await the future return of Christ, we already look back on “the coming of the Son of Man,” which ought to inspire us to take further steps forward in Christian mission.

Key Features

• Allows Mark 13:24-27 to be read as an integral part of the Gospel.
• Demonstrates that these verses raise expectations that are then shown to be fulfilled in Jesus.
• Reveals his theology of the Messiah, crucified and risen.

Praise for the Print Edition

This is a bold and well-argued exegesis of Mark 13 that encourages readers to take seriously its provocative central thesis through a creative and detailed application of literary and audience-oriented criticism. I hope that this publication will enable this fresh reading of a key Gospel text to reach a wide audience and that it will stimulate the critical interaction it warrants.

—Willis Salier, Consultant, Gafcon Theological Education Network

In this insightful study, Peter Bolt uses reader-response criticism to demonstrate that Mark 13 is integral to the Gospel narrative. Responding critically to the interpretive debates on Mark 13:24–27, Bolt shows convincingly how Mark’s dramatic narrative reveals his theology of the Messiah, crucified and risen. Bolt argues incisively that the Markan narrative makes sense in itself, both literarily and theologically. From this academic study, the Markan call to discipleship emerges with clarion voice.

— Michele A. Connolly, RSJ, Associate Professor, Sydney College of Divinity

Product Details

• Title: The Narrative Integrity of Mark 13:24–27
• Author: Peter G. Bolt
• Publisher: Wipf and Stock
• Print Publication Date: 2021
• Pages: 218
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Reader Edition
• ISBNs: 9781666730791, 1666730793
• Resource ID: LLS:NRRTVNTGR132427
• Resource Type: Monograph
• Metadata Last Updated: 2022-12-22T20:36:35Z

About Peter G. Bolt

Peter G. Bolt is the Academic Director of Sydney Divinity College, the Director of the Centre for Gospels and Acts Research, and the editor of the Journal of Gospels and Acts Research. He has published Jesus’ Defeat of Death and Mark’s Early Readers, The Cross from a Distance, and (with Sharon Beekmann) Silencing Satan.