One of the best books I read in preparation to read the Gospel of Mark is “The King of the Jews” by D. Thomas Lancaster. This book looks at the life of Jesus from a Judaic perspective. It really delves into the role of a rabbi and gives wonderful insights into 1st century Jewish life by quoting the Talmud and Mishna.

My copy of this book is filled with blue ink, as I underlined, placed stars and question marks all over the pages of this book. It was an invaluable tool in my preparation to teach the Gospels.

I think this book is a must read for any Bible teacher and is a wonderful read for anyone who wants to understand some the background of the New Testament.