Mark 1:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 1:2
2 As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.
Chapter Context
Mark 1 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of fellowship, worship, grace. Written during the mid first century CE (c. 65-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Composed during or just after Nero's persecution when eyewitnesses were disappearing.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-45: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Mark and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Mark 1:2
2 As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.
Analysis
Mark begins his Gospel not with Jesus' birth but with Old Testament prophecy, establishing that Jesus' ministry fulfills God's eternal redemptive plan. The phrase 'As it is written in the prophets' (καθὼς γέγραπται) appeals to scriptural authority—Mark combines Malachi 3:1 and Isaiah 40:3, showing their unified fulfillment in Christ. The messenger 'before thy face' identifies John the Baptist as the forerunner preparing Christ's way. The Hebrew mal'ak (מַלְאָךְ) means both human messenger and angel—John functions as God's divinely appointed herald. John's ministry of repentance prepared hearts to receive the Messiah. Reformed theology emphasizes that God's redemptive plan spans history—Old Testament prophecy finds fulfillment in New Testament reality, demonstrating divine sovereignty over all events.
Historical Context
Mark wrote for a primarily Gentile audience, likely in Rome around AD 65-70, yet begins by citing Jewish Scripture, demonstrating Christianity's rootedness in God's Old Testament promises. The combination of Malachi 3:1 and Isaiah 40:3 was common in ancient Jewish exegesis (gezera shawa). First-century Jews eagerly anticipated messianic deliverance and scrutinized prophets for signs. John's ministry (AD 27-29) fulfilled these prophecies, preparing Israel for Jesus' public ministry.
Reflection
- How does Mark's opening with Old Testament prophecy demonstrate that the Gospel fulfills God's ancient promises rather than inventing a new religion?
- What does John the Baptist's role as forerunner teach about God's orderly preparation for major redemptive events?
Word Studies
- Prophet: προφήτης (Prophētēs) G4396 - Prophet
Cross-References
- Prophecy: Luke 1:70, 1:76
- Parallel theme: Psalms 40:7, Malachi 3:1, Matthew 11:10, 26:31