The book of Mark was the first written of the Gospels somewhere around 64 AD.

It was written by John Mark, a one-time companion of Paul, who was said to have derived his information from Peter. 
Acts 15.37; Col. 4.10; and 1 Peter 5.13


Historical Context
Mark was likely written to Roman Christians during the great persecution in Rome.


The audience was predominantly Gentile. 
Mark 5.41; 7.3, 4; 7.34; and 15.34


Literary Style Features
The Gospels are considered ancient biography.

The freedom ancient biographers had to rearrange their material allowed the Gospel writers to preach Jesus as well as report about Him, while still recounting His words and deeds accurately.

One prominent Palestinian Jewish teaching technique that Jesus employed to make His points graphically is the parable.
Mark 4.33,34

Ancient biographies were meant to be read the whole way through. Mark was meant to be read quickly, like a tract.

It’s widely believed that both Matthew and Luke used Mark’s Gospel as a source for writing their own. Luke 1.1-4


Structure
Introduction: Mark 1.1-13
Mark 1.1
Mark makes two proclamations concerning Jesus:

1. Jesus is the Messiah, and
2. Jesus is the Son of God.

Mark 1.2-11

Mark 1.12-13


Miracles and the Multitudes: Mark 1.14-8.26
This section of Mark features Jesus preaching to multitudes and performing miracles, primarily in Galilee.


Jerusalem and Ultimate Mission: Mark 8.27-15.47
The turning point in Mark’s Gospel appears in Mark 8.26-38

Another pivotal event occurred six days later: 
The Transfiguration. Mark 9.2-13


Ending: Mark 16
Mark’s Gospel originally ended abruptly at Mark 16.8


Main Themes

• Jesus’ divine identity
  
  
• The messianic secret
  
  
• The disciples’ weakness
  
  
• Miracles – Mark 3.22-30
  
  
• Suffering – Mark 10.45 (compare with Philippians 2.5-11)

Recommended Resource:The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament,Craig S. Keener, InterVarsity Press, 1993