Reading Mark: A Literary and Theological Commentary (Reading the New Testament, 2nd Series)

by F. Scott Spencer

Publisher:

Smyth & Helwys

, 2023

Overview

Mark, the second and shortest Gospel, is far from second-rate or short-sighted. This commentary by F. Scott Spencer provides a lively literary and theological reading of Mark’s remarkable story of the “good news of God” embodied in Jesus Christ. It carefully tracks the developing characters, unfolding plot, and key themes marking the “way” of God from Jesus’s baptism to his empty tomb, with a special eye to surprising detours and crossroads along the way—impelling Jesus to a literal cross.

Spencer uses a variety of analytical methods, paying special attention to intertextual links between Mark and the Old Testament. Mark’s edgy emotional portrait of Jesus and other characters displays poignant elements of anger, anguish, grief, frustration, fear, and other “passions.” Throughout the narrative, Jesus engages in life-and-death battles with oppressive forces, spiritual and political, giving his life to liberate (redeem) weak and vulnerable persons. Mark’s passionate, powerful message continues to challenge and encourage readers today.

Key Features

• Provides a theological reading of Mark’s remarkable story of the “good news of God”.
• Reminds us that Jesus’s story is about believing, living, and growing in community.
• Guides readers through the narrative of Mark’s Gospel.

Praise for the Print Edition

Scott Spencer stands out among commentators by accompanying us through the experience of reading Mark with its twists, turns, and subtle hints. Always mindful of Mark as a narrative about Jesus as the embodiment of God’s action in the world, Spencer reminds us that Jesus’s story is not just about ideas but also about believing, living, and growing in community.

—Greg Carey. Professor of New Testament. Lancaster Theological Seminary

Spencer, widely known and respected for his scholarship on Luke, brings his expertise in the Synoptic tradition to this excellent guide to understanding the Gospel of Mark. Truth be told, academic commentaries aren’t known for being page-turners, but Spencer defies these expectations with his engaging and witty writing style. When I teach or preach on Mark, this will be one of the first resources I consult

—Nijay K. Gupta. Professor of New Testament. Northern Seminary

Spencer delivers an accessible and thoroughgoing literary and theological reading of Mark. His skillful analysis of the narrative elements and attention to characters’ emotions showcase how Mark’s story connects with its readers. No one can consult Reading Mark and hold this Gospel at arm’s length.

—Elizabeth E. Shively. St Mary’s College. University of St. Andrews, Scotland

Product Details

• Title: Reading Mark: A Literary and Theological Commentary
• Author: F. Scott Spencer
• Series: Reading the New Testament, 2nd Series
• Publisher: Smyth & Helwys
• Print Publication Date: 2023
• Logos Release Date: 2023
• Pages: 342
• Era: era:contemporary
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
• Subject: Bible. N.T. Mark › Commentaries
• ISBNs: 9781641733977, 1641733977
• Resource ID: LLS:READ2ND62MKSPNCR
• Resource Type: Bible Commentary
• Metadata Last Updated: 2024-09-10T00:29:09Z

About F. Scott Spencer

F. Scott Spencer (PhD, University of Durham) has served as professor of religion at Wingate University (NC) and professor of New Testament and biblical interpretation at Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond (VA). He has authored numerous books and articles, including commentaries on Luke, Acts, and the Song of Songs. He has enjoyed acting in seminary, university, and community theater, including productions of Shadowlands, God’s Favorite, Godspell, and Cotton Patch Gospel.