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Roman Judea and the Gospel of Mark

  • In addition to proclaiming the “good news” the gospels sought to distinguish a Jewish Jesus from his Jewish background, to create an opposition between the followers of Jesus and other forms of first-century Judaism.

  • I. Political and Religious Context in First-Century Judea
  • II. The Gospel Narrative
  • III. Criticizing Other Sects and Authorities

I. Political and Religious Background in First-Century Judea

  • 1. Roman Influence and Occupation
  • Judea became Roman tributary state c. 63 BCE
  • Herod installed as king c. 37 BCE
  • Direct Roman rule 6 CE
  • Mix of Tolerance and Tensions (See Josephus)
  • 2. Jewish Religious and Social Diversity

2. Jewish Religious and Social Diversity

  • Sadducees
  • Pharisees
  • Essenes
  • Zealots (and Sicarii)
  • Synagogues
  • Wisemen/Prophets

Model of the Second Temple and the Temple complex in Jerusalem in the time of Herod.

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The Temple Mount today with the Dome of the Rock (a Muslim shrine), the al-Aqsa mosque, and remaining ancient and medieval walls.

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II. Gospel Narrative

  • 1. Jesus’ Preaching
  • The “Kingdom of God” is at hand
  • Teaches in Parables
  • 2. Conflict with Sadducees, Pharisees, and Scribes
  • 3. Passion and Crucifixion

III. Criticizing other Sects and Authorities

  • 1. Selection of events and sayings for readers after 70 CE
  • 2. The Gospel Genre
  • Melding an account of Jesus’ teaching with the story of his passion
  • 3. Apocalyptic Writings
  • 4. Refutation of Rabbinic Judaism