7 ways the Gospel of Mark reveals the identity of Jesus
When Jesus rode into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, the whole city stirred with one question: “Who is this?” (Matt. 21:10). That same question reverberates through the Gospel of Mark — and still echoes in our culture today. Mark doesn’t merely offer theological claims about Jesus; he constructs a narrative arc that progressively unveils His identity in dramatic, revelatory moments.
Here are seven powerful ways Mark’s Gospel reveals who Jesus truly is:
1. Mark opens with a bold declaration: Jesus is the Son of God
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Mark wastes no time: “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (Mark 1:1). From the first verse, we’re told that Jesus is not just a man—He is the divine Son, the visible Yahweh revealing the invisible God. At His baptism, the heavens rip open and the Father declares, “You are my beloved Son” (Mark 1:11).
This is more than a title; it’s a declaration of identity and purpose. Jesus isn’t merely bringing good news — He is the good news.
2. Even demons recognize His authority
In Mark 1:24, a demon cries out, “I know who you are — the Holy One of God!” This is repeated throughout the Gospel. Even hell knows who Jesus is. Acts 19 shows that demons knew Paul and Jesus, but not everyone else. The question is — does hell know your name?
Spiritual authority comes not from titles but from alignment with the King. Demons only bow to one name — and that’s the name of Jesus. As Jesus said, “If I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you” (Matt. 12:28). The kingdom comes not only in word, but in power.
3. His works and words reveal His divinity
In Mark 4:41, after Jesus calms a raging sea, the disciples ask, “Who then is this, that even the wind and sea obey him?” Jesus is no mere teacher — He commands the forces of nature. This moment directly challenges the false God Baal, the so-called storm god (Ps. 29:3-4).
Jesus doesn’t just represent God — He acts as God. The One who created the sea walks on it and rebukes it. He is the Creator in the flesh, Lord over all.
4. Jesus declares His identity before the high priest
During His trial, Jesus is asked, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” He answers, “I am … and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming with the clouds of heaven” (Mark 14:62).
This is a direct reference to Daniel 7:13-14 — Jesus doesn’t deny His identity; He amplifies it. He is not just the Messiah; He is the glorious Son of Man who will rule eternally. Even facing death, Jesus boldly affirms who He is.
5. A Roman centurion proclaims Him the Son of God
In one of the Gospel’s most profound moments, a Roman soldier watches Jesus die and exclaims, “Truly this man was the Son of God!” (Mark 15:39).
Here, a gentile — representing the Gospel going to all nations — recognizes Jesus in the moment of His suffering. This is the Gospel breaking through ethnic and religious boundaries. Jesus’ death was not a defeat—it was the coronation of the King. His identity is revealed most clearly not in glory, but in the cross.
6. Religious leaders unwittingly acknowledge His divinity
When Jesus forgives sins in Mark 2, the religious leaders accuse Him of blasphemy: “Who can forgive sins but God alone?” Their theology is correct, but their hearts are blind.
Jesus proves His authority not just through words, but by healing the paralytic. Their rejection highlights a sobering truth: you can know Scripture and still miss the Savior. Religious familiarity does not equal spiritual revelation.
7. Jesus is the new and perfect temple
Mark portrays Jesus as the new locus of God’s presence. In Mark 1:40-45, Jesus cleanses a leper without temple rituals, because He is the true Temple.
On Palm Sunday, Jesus cleanses the earthly temple (Mark 11:15–19) and later, at His death, the veil is torn in two (Mark 15:38). His resurrection fulfills His prediction: “Destroy this temple … and in three days I will raise it up” (John 2:19).
He is not just the priest — He is the temple, the sacrifice, and the presence of God Himself.
Conclusion: Beholding the face of God in Christ
In Mark, the question “Who is this man?” is answered not only through supernatural acts, but ultimately through sacrificial love. The Gospel climaxes at the cross, where the veil is torn and God’s presence becomes accessible.
Jesus fulfills the story of Israel, the temple, the priesthood, and the prophets. In Him, we behold the face of God. And to encounter Him is to be changed forever.
Call to action
- Let this Gospel compel you to worship Jesus as Savior and the reigning Son of God.
- Embrace the reality that His Spirit makes you a living temple — honor His presence in your daily life.
- Walk in spiritual authority, knowing demons bow at His name.
- Guard your heart from religious blindness — seek Him in spirit and truth.
- Proclaim His name boldly to the nations. The world still asks, “Who is this man?” — and we carry the answer.
Let us rise as His witnesses, living temples that carry the revelation of Jesus to a world desperate for truth.
Dr. Joseph Mattera is renowned for addressing current events through the lens of Scripture by applying biblical truths and offering cogent defenses to today's postmodern culture. To order his bestselling books or to join the many thousands who subscribe to his acclaimed newsletter, go to www.josephmattera.org.
