Today we move to the New Testament. In Mark’s Gospel the Lord Jesus can be noticed in His service, particularly as a Prophet.
He is at work in the early verses of the first chapter. No ancestors given as in Matthew and Luke; this would not be expected for a servant. Nor are there many miracles or long talks in this Gospel. This Gospel gives the actual order in which things took place more than any of the other Gospels.
V.1-8 John the Baptist prepares the way of the Lord, preaches the baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins — not Christian baptism, for people were baptized by John, and then needed Christian baptism (Acts 19:55When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. (Acts 19:5)). He announces a more glorious Servant — verse 7 tells how unworthy he felt.
V.9-11 The Lord Jesus takes His place with His people the Jews, and is baptized by John. The Spirit of God descends upon Jesus, and God speaks from heaven, declaring His delight in His beloved Son. So we see here the Trinity. The Son is revealed as a Man; the Holy Spirit descends like a dove, and the Father’s voice is heard. Remember that all God’s purposes of blessing centered in Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:47 describes two men, Adam, the first man — Christ the second Man. Adam’s race failed God, so we can understand why the Father’s delight is expressed here.
V.14-15 Remember it was the “gospel of the kingdom” which Jesus preached. The kingdom was announced but never established, because He was rejected. But He shall yet come again and set it up in power (Rev. 11:1717Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned. (Revelation 11:17)).
V.16-20 Two sets of brothers are invited to follow the Lord Jesus. They become disciples and apostles of His. Notice two words in verse 18. “Forsook” and “followed,” and four words in verse 20 — “they left” and “went after.” They were so attracted to Jesus that they forsook their nets and left their father!