10 Interesting Facts About Mark in the Bible

Mark, also known as John Mark, is a significant figure in the New Testament. Though not one of the twelve disciples, he helped shape the early church and left a lasting mark—literally—through the Gospel that bears his name. Here are ten interesting facts about him, supported by Bible verses.

1. Mark’s Full Name Was John Mark

Mark had two names—John (his Jewish name) and Mark (his Roman name). This was common among Jews living in the Roman Empire.

“And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.”
— Acts 12:12 (KJV)

2. His Mother’s House Was a Gathering Place for Christians

Mark’s mother, Mary, owned a home in Jerusalem where early believers met, likely making Mark familiar with the apostles.

“Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.”
— Acts 12:5 (KJV)

“And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark…”
— Acts 12:12 (KJV)

3. Mark Was a Missionary Companion of Paul and Barnabas

Mark went with Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey as their helper.

“And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister.”
— Acts 13:5 (KJV)

“Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.”
— Acts 13:13 (KJV)

4. His Departure Caused a Disagreement Between Paul and Barnabas

Later, Barnabas wanted to take Mark on another trip, but Paul disagreed due to Mark's earlier departure. The disagreement led to their separation.

“And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus; And Paul chose Silas...”
— Acts 15:39–40 (KJV)

5. Mark Was Reconciled with Paul

Though Paul once rejected Mark, he later asked for him, calling him helpful for ministry. This shows growth in Mark's faith and usefulness.

“Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.”
— 2 Timothy 4:11 (KJV)

“Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas... if he come unto you, receive him.”
— Colossians 4:10 (KJV)

6. Mark Had a Spiritual Father-Son Bond with Peter

Peter referred to Mark as his “son,” which likely meant a close mentorship. Many believe Mark’s Gospel reflects Peter’s eyewitness account of Jesus’ ministry.

“The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son.”
— 1 Peter 5:13 (KJV)

7. Mark Wrote the Gospel That Bears His Name

The Gospel of Mark was probably the first Gospel written and emphasizes action, miracles, and the authority of Jesus.

“The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.”
— Mark 1:1–2 (KJV)

8. Mark May Have Been the Young Man Who Fled

Many believe Mark wrote himself anonymously into his Gospel as the young man who fled during Jesus’ arrest.

“And there followed him a certain young man, having a linen cloth cast about his naked body; and the young men laid hold on him: And he left the linen cloth, and fled from them naked.”
— Mark 14:51–52 (KJV)

9. He Traveled With Peter and Possibly Wrote His Sermons

Though not detailed in Scripture, early church writings say Mark traveled with Peter and recorded his sermons. Peter calls Mark “my son,” reinforcing their bond.

“So doth Marcus my son.”
— 1 Peter 5:13 (KJV)

10. Mark Became a Church Leader in Egypt

Early Christian tradition says Mark founded the church in Alexandria, Egypt, and was later martyred there. Though not in the Bible, this is widely believed.

“And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.”
— Mark 13:13 (KJV)

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