Key Verse:

As it is written in Isaiah the prophet:

“I will send my messenger ahead of you,

who will prepare your way”—

“a voice of one calling in the wilderness,

‘Prepare the way for the Lord,

make straight paths for him.’”

- Mark 1:2-3

How to Use This Plan

We are so excited that you’re starting your journey through the book of Mark with us! You may have gotten this journal because living in the Word daily is difficult for you. Or, maybe this discipline comes naturally for you, but you simply want to take a different approach in your study of scripture. Regardless of where you may fall in this aspect of your walk with God, our prayer is that you would see scripture in an entirely new way in the next few weeks. The goal of this journal is simple: we want it to be a tool for you. Each weekday, there will be a short reading out of the book of Mark. We recommend that you start your time with prayer, then slowly read through that day’s passage. You may even want to read it multiple times; something new could stand out with each read! Write down what stands out to you in the lines. After completing the reading, finish out with that day’s reflection questions and pray about what you took away from your time in the Word. Weekends look a little different in this journal. On Saturdays, you will find a short devotional and guided prayer that covers a takeaway from what you read that week. We hope your time in the book of Mark is reflective, fruitful, and eye-opening for you!

Overview

The Gospel of Mark is considered by some as the most important of the “synoptic” gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), mainly because it was the earliest written. With brevity and urgency, John Mark describes the birth, life, work, and teachings of Jesus Christ. Highlighted with action and vivid storytelling, this Gospel underscores the transformative power of faith and encourages us to remain steadfast in our commitment to Christ, even in the midst of trials and uncertainties. The Gospel of Mark stands not only as a historical account of Jesus’ life, but also as a source of inspiration and guidance for the early Christian community navigating the challenges of their time.

Locations

The Gospel of Mark takes us on a journey through various locations significant to the life and ministry of Jesus. From the bustling streets of Capernaum, where Jesus performed many miracles, to the tranquil shores of the Sea of Galilee, where He taught the crowds from a boat, each location carries profound symbolic and spiritual significance. Jerusalem plays a central role in Mark’s account, serving as the backdrop for Jesus’ final days, the Last Supper, and ultimately, His crucifixion and resurrection.

PLACES: Capernaum, Nazareth, Caesarea Philippi, Jericho, Bethany, Mount of Olives, Jerusalem, Golgotha

Author’s Bio

Although he wasn’t one of Jesus’ twelve Disciples, John Mark was a figure mentioned in the New Testament who grew up in the middle of the early church. In fact, his mother Mary’s home was an epicenter for the early church, as referenced in Acts 12, and perhaps the location of the Last Supper. His uncle Barnabas was Paul’s right-hand man, and he was extremely close to the Apostle Peter, so close that Peter referred to him as “my son” in 1 Peter 5:13. It is likely that John Mark wrote this gospel from the firsthand accounts of Peter’s sermons.