Mark is the shortest of the four gospels and moves rapidly from one event to the next. The Greek word, which is variously translated as "immediately" or "at once" or "just then" is used nearly 50 times in the narrative. It is a vibrant, roller coaster of episodes rushing through the life of Jesus. Mark is no jog! Are you ready for the sprint? Mark will leave us breathless at the marvelous news that Jesus is more than just a Great Galileen man!

Nigel Pollock in his book, Unconditional, comments "Mark goes into print with the biggest news story of all time. Right from the start he goes straight to the heart of the matter. This is the beginning – not just the beginning of what Mark is writing but the beginning of the good news [Gospel]. The good news Mark describes is focused on a person. The good news is about Jesus Christ. Mark immediately comments on Jesus' identity-his central concern. Mark is not trying to write a conventional biography in the sense of childhood, rise to fame, achievements and perspective. This is not something of local interest- his headline is not 'Jesus-the Greatest Galilean who ever lived'. It is a headline that states something which, if it is true, is absolutely incredible in its substance and universal in its application."