Discipleship in the Gospel of Mark

Abstract

In the gospel of Mark, we encounter numerous theological emphasis. One of them which is very paramount to Mark’s gospel is discipleship. This work discusses and narrates the accounts in which Jesus called the twelve apostles and their responses. It examines Jesus’ objective of choosing the twelve; discipleship and experiment/practice; discipleship and empowerment; discipleship and self-denial; and discipleship and service/humility; the failure of the disciples; and the implications of discipleship for our contemporary Christian setting. The findings are that obedience to Christ’s calling or vocation and its mandate serve as a determinant for true and resolute discipleship. Moreover, the call to the ecclesia to train her members or followers (of Christ) especially those involved in active ministry according to Christ’s standards cannot be overemphasized by the church.

Keywords

• discipleship
• gospel of mark