Lesson 2 of 4
Where to begin
Read
Study objective: Choose a good starting point and understand why a Gospel is a common first choice.
Reading: Mark 1:1–15
Mark 1:1–15 WEB
1The beginning of the Good News of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. 2As it is written in the prophets, “Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before you: 3the voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make ready the way of the Lord! Make his paths straight!’” 4John came baptizing in the wilderness and preaching the baptism of repentance for forgiveness of sins. 5All the country of Judea and all those of Jerusalem went out to him. They were baptized by him in the Jordan river, confessing their sins. 6John was clothed with camel’s hair and a leather belt around his waist. He ate locusts and wild honey. 7He preached, saying, “After me comes he who is mightier than I, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and loosen. 8I baptized you in water, but he will baptize you in the Holy Spirit.” 9In those days, Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10Immediately coming up from the water, he saw the heavens parting and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11A voice came out of the sky, “You are my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” 12Immediately the Spirit drove him out into the wilderness. 13He was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals; and the angels were serving him. 14Now after John was taken into custody, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the Good News of God’s Kingdom, 15and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and God’s Kingdom is at hand! Repent, and believe in the Good News.”
Background and context
You do not have to read the Bible from the first page to the last. Many people begin with one of the four Gospels, which tell the story of Jesus; Mark is the shortest. Others begin with Genesis for the beginning of the story, or with the Psalms for prayer. A short plan can help you start without feeling lost.
Observe
- Mark’s first sentence tells you what the book is about: “the Good News of Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (Mark 1:1).
- John the Baptist prepares the way, quoting the prophets (Mark 1:2-8).
- Jesus is baptised and hears a voice from heaven (Mark 1:9-11).
- Jesus’ first message is about the Kingdom of God, repentance and belief (Mark 1:14-15).
Words, people and events to notice
- Gospel
- In English, “gospel” means good news. It names both the message about Jesus and the four books that tell his story. Mark 1:1
Understand
- What does Mark 1:1 tell the reader to expect?
- How does Mark connect Jesus with the Old Testament prophets (Mark 1:2-3)?
- What does Jesus ask of people in Mark 1:15?
Connect
- John 1:1–18
Another Gospel’s very different opening: the Word who became flesh.
- Psalm 1:1–3
The first psalm describes a person who delights in God’s law.
Reflect
- Which starting point appeals to you most, and why?
- How much could you realistically read each day?
Key takeaways
Editorial summary, not Scripture.
- A Gospel such as Mark is a good place to start.
- Starting small and steadily is better than starting big and stopping.
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