Mark 13:1-37 As Mark continues his gospel, Jesus and the disciples are leaving the temple. The disciples comment about the beauty of the stones of the temple and Jesus informs them that those stones will all "be thrown down." Once on the Mount of Olives, four disciples ask Jesus about the timing of these things. Jesus goes on to tell the disciples about the end of the age and the coming of the Son of Man. He warns them about realities of a future great tribulation period. Everything Jesus tells them is intended to drive them to be alert, to faithfully follow him, to watch because we do not know when he is coming, but he is coming. In spite of coming crisis, we must be watchful, and persevere in faithfully following Jesus.
The gospel of Mark focuses on the gospel of Jesus, who is the Son of God. Jesus is the Christ, the promised one from God. Mark refers to Jesus as the Son of Man, emphasizing his humanity and the Son of God which emphasizes his deity. The influence of Peter or the teaching of Peter is the foundation of the gospel of Mark. Mark writes to explain Jesus to unbelievers and to call believers to know him and live like him. Mark emphasizes Jesus as a servant, a quality believers should emulate. Mark also emphasizes the discipleship of Jesus. Jesus discipled his followers. Mark hopes to demonstrate the good news (gospel) of Jesus to the world, because he is the Son of God.
