Podcast Summary: Catholic Saints – Episode on St. Mark

Title: Catholic Saints
Host/Author: Augustine Institute
Episode: St. Mark
Release Date: April 25, 2025

Introduction

In this enlightening episode of the Catholic Saints podcast, produced by the Augustine Institute, host Tim Gray engages in a profound discussion with Dr. Ben Akers, a professor of theology, about St. Mark, the author of the Gospel of Mark. The conversation delves into Mark’s life, his gospel’s unique attributes, and his significant role in the early Christian church.

Who is St. Mark?

Tim Gray begins by expressing his deep personal devotion to St. Mark and his Gospel, mentioning, “I love St. Mark. I have a special devotion to Mark. I love the Gospel of Mark.” (00:14). He underscores the importance of understanding Mark both as an individual and as the author of one of the four canonical Gospels.

Symbolism of the Four Gospels

The discussion transitions to the symbolism associated with the four Gospels. Tim explains, “Mark is the emblem for Mark is a lion” (02:26). He elaborates on the traditional symbols:

• John is represented by an eagle, symbolizing contemplation and soaring vision.
• Matthew by a man, representing his role as a tax collector and scribe.
• Luke by an ox, reflecting his Gospel’s beginning in the temple with Zechariah.
• Mark by a lion, aligning with the wild beasts mentioned in his Gospel.

Dr. Ben Akers adds historical context, connecting these symbols to the Book of Revelation and the prophet Ezekiel’s vision of angelic beings with four faces, representing the four Gospels.

Mark’s Gospel in Historical Context

Tim and Ben explore why the lion symbolizes Mark’s Gospel. Ben notes that Mark’s Gospel begins with powerful imagery: “a voice crying in the wilderness with John announcing John the Baptist” (02:53). Tim connects this to the severe persecution of Christians in Rome under Emperor Nero, stating, “Christians were being thrown to the wild beasts in the Coliseum” (05:35). This real-life suffering is mirrored in Mark’s depiction of Jesus amidst wild beasts, symbolizing solidarity with persecuted Christians.

Authenticity and Eyewitness Accounts

The conversation highlights the Gospel of Mark as an eyewitness account. Tim points out, “Peter is the first person named and the last person named in the Gospel of Mark” (09:50), emphasizing the authenticity and reliability of the narrative. Ben concurs, explaining that Mark’s Gospel captures Peter’s firsthand experiences, making it a crucial historical and theological document.

John Mark in the New Testament

Tim provides a comprehensive overview of John Mark’s role in the New Testament. He references Acts 13, where John Mark accompanies Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey, and Acts 12, where Mark’s mother is referenced during Peter’s escape from prison (11:24). Tim speculates that the servant girl in Acts 12’s Upper Room passage might have been Mark, highlighting his significance within the early Christian community.

Conflict Between Paul and Mark

A pivotal moment in the discussion centers on the early conflict between Paul and Mark. Tim recounts how Mark left Paul and Barnabas during their first mission journey, causing tension and Paul’s initial refusal to work with him again (15:30). However, he underscores the eventual reconciliation between Paul and Mark, illustrating the theme of forgiveness and redemption. Ben reflects on this, noting, “Good people, even saints, can disagree and have honest arguments” (17:52).

Legacy and Symbolism of St. Mark

The legacy of St. Mark is further explored through his association with Venice. Tim describes the Basilica of San Marco in Venice, where Mark’s body is believed to be buried, and connects the lion symbol of Venice to Mark’s emblem (19:27). Ben shares his personal experience attending Christmas Eve Mass at the basilica, marveling at its beauty and the vibrant mosaics illuminated by candles (20:26).

Uniqueness of Mark’s Gospel

Mark’s Gospel is portrayed as the most dynamic and action-packed of the four, often referred to as the “cliffnote version” due to its brevity and immediacy. Dr. Ben Akers describes it as “scene upon scene upon scene” with the repeated use of the word “immediately” (22:15). Tim contrasts this with Matthew’s more discursive style, highlighting Mark’s focus on action and the immediacy of Jesus’ mission (22:40).

Themes in Mark’s Gospel

Key themes in Mark’s Gospel include:

• Discipleship and the Cost of Following Christ: Emphasizing the sacrifices and challenges faced by Jesus’ followers.
• Authenticity through Apostolic Failures: Tim highlights how Mark’s portrayal of the apostles’ mistakes adds authenticity: “This is a real authentic document” (27:32).
• The True Enemy – Satan and Demons: Mark shifts the focus from human adversaries to spiritual ones, portraying Jesus’ primary conflict as against demonic forces (23:51).

Conclusion

The episode concludes with an invitation to listeners to engage deeper with the Gospel of Mark through Augustine Institute’s resources. Tim encourages prayer to St. Mark and highlights available Bible studies and materials for further exploration (28:31). Ben reflects on the enduring legacy of Mark and the profound lessons his life and writings offer to believers today (19:45).

Notable Quotes

• Tim Gray (00:14): “I love St. Mark. I have a special devotion to Mark. I love the Gospel of Mark.”

• Dr. Ben Akers (02:26): “The lion is attributed to Mark’s Gospel, because Mark’s gospel begins with a voice crying in the wilderness...”

• Tim Gray (05:35): “Nero's horrific persecution… Christians were being thrown to the wild beasts in the Coliseum.”

• Tim Gray (09:50): “Peter is the first person named and the last person named in the Gospel of Mark…”

• Dr. Ben Akers (17:52): “Good people, even saints, can disagree and have honest arguments.”

• Tim Gray (22:40): “Mark loved action. It was fast-paced…”

• Dr. Ben Akers (27:32): “Mark's Gospel... talks about discipleship and carrying the cross...”

Resources and Further Engagement

Listeners are encouraged to explore the Augustine Institute’s 12-part Bible study on the Gospel of Mark, available on Formed.org. Additionally, materials such as DVDs and workbooks can be purchased through the Augustine Institute’s web store to guide further study and reflection.

For more in-depth content, including award-winning studies and parish programs, visit formed.org and support the Augustine Institute’s mission by becoming a Mission Circle Partner at missioncircle.org.

May this exploration of St. Mark deepen your understanding and appreciation of his invaluable contribution to the Christian faith. Happy Feast Day of St. Mark!