Ever uncover a glaring similarity in today’s world when researching events that occurred in the distant past? The shock can be unsettling. Sitting back in the desk chair, I wondered, did a law enforcement glitch or simple apathy kill Mark?
The Teen
Sunday School teachers and Bible readers might recall the dismal beginning to the ministry of the young John Mark. Cousin Barnabas and the new apostle, Paul, invited the teen to accompany them on their first missionary journey. All seemed to go well on the isle of Cyprus, but as soon as the trio set sail for the next port of call, Mark bolted. No one recorded why Mark had had enough.
Much later, the young man was the focus of a strong argument between Paul and Cousin Barnabas. No way would Paul agree to give Mark a second chance when planning another journey to visit those new churches.
Barnabas took Mark with him to minister in Cyprus. Paul left with Silas on the rest of the planned journey.
The Man
History records Barnabas made the right judgment call, giving the young Mark a second chance. Mark not only worked well with Peter and some of the other evangelists of the time, Paul came to respect and love the young man for his capable ministry. Paul even sent for Mark at a low time in his own life.
Mark founded and led the growing church in Alexandria. Pastor and evangelist Mark was known all over Egypt and the Roman Empire at that time.
The Martyr
The leaders of the growing pagan opposition to Mark’s ministry in Alexandria decided to act. Aware that the Roman law protected the Christians from persecution, the organizers planned to test the waters.
On Easter Sunday, the pagans abducted Mark and dragged him through the city streets. When Mark had only a short bit of life left, the pagan torturers left him alone in the dirt. The church family hastened to give aid to their pastor.
The opposition leaders waited to see if the authorities in Rome would enforce the law. Such an act of defiance would certainly reach the ears of those in charge.
However, even the local law enforcement ignored the murderous crime. Clearly empowered by the lack of repercussions, the attackers returned to the pastor.
Once again, the violent men dragged Mark through the city streets. When they tired of the torture but saw the man continued to breathe, the men beat Mark until he died.
Conclusion
After discovering the gruesome way Mark died, two thoughts emerged:
- Can I ever read the Gospel of Mark again without seeing the horrific image of its author being dragged through the streets?
- How many other crimes perpetrated against Christians—past and present history—are simply because no one bothered to enforce existing laws?
What do you think? Did a law enforcement glitch or simple apathy kill Mark?
