Question

In the Bible, list and briefly describe the literary stylistic features of Scene 1 Mark 1:1-8, Scene 2 Mark 1:9-11, and Scene 3 Mark 1:12-13.

Answer 1

The first 13 verses of Gospel of Mark of the Bible is marked as the preparation of Jesus' Ministry. These are important events that occurs before the Jesus proclaims about the Kingdom of God. These events occurs in Galilee before he enters Jerusalem to do his Ministry. Mark uses parataxis to describe these events.

In scene 1 Mark 1:1-8, John the Baptist is introduced, he preaches about sin, repentance and baptism. He predicts about the greatness of Jesus and also, he introduces Jesus.

In scene 2 Mark 1:9-11, Jesus is baptized by John the Baptist, the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove comes upon Jesus, and the voice anounces that "This is my son in whom I am pleased", thus, this scene reveals the true identity of Jesus.

In scene 3 Mark 1:12-13, Jesus is tempted by the Satan in the wilderness. This overcoming of Jesus on temptation marks his final preparedness for the ministry and entrance to Jerusalem. thanks

Thus, Mark closely strings the events (parataxis) prior to the ministry of Jesus in these verses.