Why Mark? The Politics of Resurrection in the First Gospel - Revised Edition

In this expanded and revised edition of Why Mark? David E. Wiley, III invites readers to delve deeper into the gospel of Mark, unlocking new layers of understanding and insight into the life, message, and resurrection of Jesus. Wiley's critical exploration challenges readers to re-examine perspectives on the first gospel writer and early followers of Jesus.

Wiley substantiates arguments with footnotes, aiding and guiding newcomers through further exploration of the first Gospel. New material addresses the birth of Jesus, potential Gnostic influence, and corrections to errors from the first edition.

Relocated chapters on Mark's treatment of resurrection appearances offer a refined narrative flow. A new section explores the priority of Mark, methodically comparing it with Matthew and Luke to provide a unique and insightful perspective. Why Mark? The Politics of Resurrection in the First Gospel - Second Edition is an indispensable resource for pastors, small groups, and thoughtful believers unafraid to tackle profound questions, offering a compelling journey into the heart of Mark's gospel.

David E. Wiley, III pastored churches in New York and New Jersey for thirty plus years. Wiley received his M.Div. and D.Min. from Drew Theological Seminary and is now retired from the United Methodist church. Dave enjoys his family and golfing in retirement. While at Drew, Dr. Wiley received the J. Newton Davies Greek New Testament Award, the Clarence Tucker Craig Award in Biblical Studies, and the Dorr F. Diefendorf Award for Excellence in Homiletics, among other honors.

“It is a wonderful resource. I find it satisfyingly scholarly and conversationally approachable. I see it as a real gift to the work of preaching. And you address some of the wonderful and lingering mysteries of this ‘Mark’ character. I am enjoying it.”

- Rev. Thomas Wolfe, Ph.D. and President Emeritus of Iliff School of Theology

“…compelling…You offer new insights on the absence of resurrection appearances after the empty tomb….I was intrigued by how you located Mark in a possible outlier community of faith. You did an enormous amount of work and the comparisons between the gospels was quite daunting….Great piece of work.”

- Rev. Robert Williams, Ph.D.  and former Secretary General of the Board of Archives and History of the United Methodist Church

“Writing with the critical eye of faith, Dave offers an important and fresh look at the author of the first Gospel and challenges us to reexamine our understanding of the first followers of Jesus. Dave’s conversational style is engaging for seasoned pastoral scholars research and lay persons who are seeking to better understand Mark’s gospel.”

- John Schol, President of Centenary University and former Bishop of the Greater NJ Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church

“I have really enjoyed re-reading Mark accompanied by your book - in particular reading through the lens of political/interpretive issues within our church. Really interesting stuff. Thank you!"

- Rev. Drew Dyson, Director of the Princeton Senior Resource Center and former pastor and District Superintendent in the Greater NJ Annual Conference