Question 1

What does Mark's Gospel teach about the cost of discipleship?

Accepted Answer

Mark's Gospel emphasises that discipleship is costly and requires total commitment. Jesus teaches that his followers must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow him, even if it leads to suffering or death (Mark 8:34-35). The rich young ruler's story (Mark 10:17-31) shows that wealth can be a barrier, and the disciples leaving everything (Mark 1:16-20) illustrates the radical sacrifice expected. Mark also highlights that true greatness comes through service, not power (Mark 10:42-45).

Question 2

Why are the disciples portrayed as failures in Mark's Gospel?

Accepted Answer

Mark portrays the disciples as failures to show that human weakness does not disqualify someone from being a disciple. They misunderstand Jesus' teachings (Mark 4:13, 8:14-21), argue about greatness (Mark 9:33-34), and abandon Jesus at his arrest (Mark 14:50). Peter even denies knowing Jesus (Mark 14:66-72). However, these failures highlight that discipleship is about relying on God's grace and forgiveness. The angel at the empty tomb tells the women to 'go and tell his disciples and Peter' (Mark 16:7), showing that failure is not final.

Question 3

How does Mark's Gospel define true greatness?

Accepted Answer

Mark defines true greatness as servanthood, not status or power. In Mark 10:42-45, Jesus contrasts worldly rulers who 'lord it over' others with his followers who must be servants. He says, 'For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.' This teaching is reinforced when Jesus washes the disciples' feet (though only in John's Gospel) and when he tells the disciples that the first will be last (Mark 9:35). True greatness in God's kingdom is measured by humility and service.

Question 4

What is the significance of the call of the first disciples in Mark 1:16-20?

Accepted Answer

The call of the first disciples (Simon, Andrew, James, and John) is significant because it shows the immediate and total response required in discipleship. Jesus simply says, 'Follow me,' and they leave their nets and families without hesitation. This demonstrates that discipleship demands priority—Jesus must come before livelihood and relationships. It also establishes the pattern for all disciples: they are called to become 'fishers of people,' meaning they will share in Jesus' mission of spreading the Kingdom of God. The passage sets the tone for the costly, yet rewarding, nature of following Jesus.

Question 5

How does Mark's Gospel show that discipleship involves mission?

Accepted Answer

Mark shows that discipleship involves mission through the sending out of the Twelve in Mark 6:7-13. Jesus gives them authority over evil spirits and instructs them to preach repentance, heal the sick, and cast out demons. They are to travel lightly, relying on God's provision, and shake off dust from towns that reject them. This passage demonstrates that disciples are not just followers but active participants in Jesus' ministry. It also prepares them for the post-resurrection mission to spread the Gospel to all nations. The disciples' failures later show that mission is not about perfection but about trusting in God's power.

Question 6

What does Mark's Gospel say about the relationship between discipleship and suffering?

Accepted Answer

Mark's Gospel closely links discipleship with suffering. Jesus predicts his own suffering and death three times (Mark 8:31, 9:31, 10:33-34) and teaches that his followers must also be willing to suffer. In Mark 8:34-35, he says, 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.' The cross was a symbol of Roman execution, so this is a stark call to endure persecution. The disciples' experiences—such as being sent out with no provisions (Mark 6:8-9) and facing opposition—reinforce that suffering is part of the journey. However, Mark also promises that those who lose their lives for Jesus and the gospel will save them (Mark 8:35), pointing to eternal reward.

Mark's Gospel: The Nature of Discipleship

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Likely Command Words

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Related Topics in EDEXCEL GCSE Religious Studies

Area of Study 1A – Catholic Christianity (Study of Religion)

Area of Study 1B – Christianity (Study of Religion)

Area of Study 1C – Islam (Study of Religion)

Area of Study 2A – Catholic Christianity (Study of Second Religion)