What did Jesus really do and say and believe? How much of the Bible can we believe (particularly when it contains contradictions)? Since the Gospels were written 40-90 years after the crucifixion, how do we get from them back to the historical reality? This Study Guide presents the best answers I have found,. Throughout, I encourage you to consider my arguments and then reach your own conclusion. Why read this book? Because you are looking for more substance than Sunday School lessons. But not scholarly tomes Something between these extremes. This Study Guide presents the greatest Biblical scholars in an accessible format, looks at every section of the Gospel, and lists every source of or borrowing from Mark. It explores differences between the Gospels. It looks at history and culture and language Did you know? A ~ The image of Jesus changed over time as the New Testament was being written. A ~ Over 90% of Mark's Gospel is reused by Matthew. A ~ Mark constructs the unknown details of the crucifixion story as a parody on a gaudy Roman imperial procession A ~ Mark apparently wasn't raised as a Jew, didn't know Palestine, and therefore makes many mistakes. A ~ Mark's Gospel was written as a series of readings to be read week-by-week through half the church year. Read this book to learn more. Read an excerpt at www.csanford.com.