„Role of Peter, Jacob and John in the Gospel of St. Mark”

Perspectiva.
Theological and Historical Studies of Legnica 2 (2004) 2, 32-51.

Jesus intentionally chooses Peter, Jacob and John as witnesses of tree events: the raising of Jairus (Mk 5,21-24.35-43), transfiguration on the mount (identified) as Tabor (9,2-11) and prayer in Gethsemane (14, 32-42). The positions of these pericopes in the structure of Markan work may suggest theological intention of Mark. Revealing progressively Jesus identity, the evangelist prepares step by step the disciples to become authoritative witnesses of Lord’s resurrection. Motif of death is shown implicite or expressis verbis in each of these narration. Three pericopes about Peter, Jacob and John were ordered according to principle of climax: at the beginning disciples experience the power of Jesus over the death, next they listen directly announcement of His resurrection, finally they attend in events leading Jesus to the cross and rising from the dead. Motif of resurrection is getting shaped more clearly in each account. If we approve this hypothesis, we can easier explain Markan omission of christophanies. They are not necessary, because Peter, Jacob and John become authoritative witnesses of Jesus resurrection.

back