This is a thoughtful introduction not only to the Gospel of St. Mark, but to New Testament scholarship in general. It brings the familiar gospel alive by analyzing the manner in which the orignal Greek has been rendered into modern English (RSV translation). In doing so it gives the reader a better sense of the original work in Greek. Likewise, Nineham provides context for better understanding the life and work of Jesus and the role that the gospel of Mark played in the history of early Christianity. As Mark was most likely a source for Luke and Matthew, this study also sheds light on those works as well.

It is among the best works on the New Testament that I have read. I think that it is a shame that it is out of print.