edited by Cynthia A. Jarvis and Elizabeth Johnson
WJK, Louisville, Ky. 541 pages
A feast indeed!
This commentary in the Feasting on the Word commentary series belongs within hands reach of every preacher or teacher. The editors, both preacher-theologians, have gathered an impressive array of scholars from the ecumenical church to comment on every passage in Mark. Seriously, there is no other commentary as helpful as this one for the working preacher and teacher.
Different from the companion volume that explores only the specific lectionary passages, this commentary addresses each passage in Mark from the perspective of theology, pastoral care, exegesis and homiletics. This allows for those who are not following the common lectionary, and those who are but want greater breadth, to find resources that will be helpful for Bible studies as well as sermons. Feasting on the Gospels, say the editors, “is addressed to all who want to deepen their understanding of the Gospels – Bible study leaders and class members, seasoned preachers and seminarians, believers and skeptics.” That is a high bar, but I believe this commentary reaches that goal.
The Gospel of Mark is featured in Year B of the lectionary. It is brief, direct and more puzzling than one might think. This commentary will edify the reader and the church on the way toward embracing the original Gospel.
