Part B
1. Read the Holman Study Guide, chapter 2, "Learning to 'Observe' the Text."
2. Read the entire Gospel through at least once or twice and write out a few general observations on what you see concerning the nature of the narrative, the kind of events, the people involved, atmospheres, how Mark chooses to present his material, etc. Try to read Mark as though you were doing so for the first time! Give sample references from Mark with your observations.
3. Read Mark 1:1-13 several times and write out in complete sentences at least five to seven most significant "observations." Such statements should be enumerated for this and succeeding assignments. Below are a few guides, which may contribute toward especially meaningful observations. Others are in the assigned Study Guide reading (note the instructions for "recording your observations" in the Holman Study Guide, chapter 2, pages 33-34). Always give verse references with observations. Note the following examples as a guide:
a. Important repeated terms (literary relation of repetition)
b. Similar terms and ideas (literary relation of continuity)
c. Contrasts
d. Movements of thought, e.g. cause-effect relationships and climax
e. How clauses and/or sentences relate to each other
Do not necessarily limit yourself to clues found in the Study Guide but observe all the significant data in these paragraphs that you can find. Do not overlook single, simple words, which are especially important in seeing what actually happens in 1:1‑13.
5. Observe structural relationships within the second paragraph (vv. 2-8) by responding to the following two items:
a. Explain the relation of verse 2b (beginning of the biblical quote) to verse 3;
b. Explain the relation of verses 2-3 to 4-8. (On proper form for this and for all items subsequently which pertain to statements of "observation," see the Holman Study Guide, pp. 26-27.)
To think about (no writing required): Mk. 1:2 is from Mal. 3:1a; Mk. 1:3 is from Isa. 40:3 (LXX). Recommended: Appendix I of the Holman Study Guide on "Canonical Criticism," pp. 54-55. Why does Mark attribute the entire prophecy to Isaiah when a part comes from Malachi? Compare the Authorized Version. What do you think is original with Mark?
6. What connections between the paragraphs do you see? (Look for any connecting phrases and for themes that may show how these paragraphs develop a trend of thought; explain the connections.)
7. Do you feel that God has spoken to you concerning any spiritual truth while studying this passage? Briefly elaborate on an application.
To think about (no writing required): Are we justified in viewing 1:1‑13 as a unit in itself, over against the rest of the chapter? Why?

Part B 1. Read the Holman Study Guide, chapter 2, &quot;Learning t...

Part B 1. Read the Holman Study Guide, chapter 2, "Learning t...