However, near the end of Paul’s life he called for Mark to be with him (2 Timothy ). Purpose of Writing: Whereas Matthew is written primarily to his fellow Jews, Mark’s gospel appears to be targeted to the Roman believers, particularly Gentiles.Date of Writing: The Gospel of Mark was likely one of the first books written in the New Testament, probably in A. Mark wrote as a pastor to Christians who previously had heard and believed the Gospel (Romans 1:8).Author: Although the Gospel of Mark does not name its author, it is the unanimous testimony of early church fathers that Mark was the author.
Though the author does not directly identify himself, there is still strong evidence to attribute the Gospel to John Mark.
In addition to Markan composition, church fathers also state that Mark was the interpreter of Peter, which would give reason to believe that he wrote his Gospel under the guidance or assistance of the apostle.
From Peter he received first-hand information of the events and teachings of the Lord, and preserved the information in written form.
It is generally agreed that Mark is the John Mark of the New Testament (Acts ).
But more important is how Mark begins his Gospel and how he ends it.
He has of Jesus–or for that matter, any birth of Jesus at all.
Barnabas wanted to take John Mark, but Paul opposed the idea because Mark had departed from them on the first Journey.
Consequently, Barnabas took John Mark, and Paul took Silas and the two groups went their separate ways (Acts -41).
[2] What is certain is that John Mark accompanied Barnabas and Saul on the first missionary journey (Acts ; 13:5), but departed early for Jerusalem (Acts ).