The other day, our second session of NT Intro, we introduced a big concept: the Gospels are theological and literary interpretations of Jesus, at least as much as they are chronicles of things Jesus did and said. Case study after case study, we looked at the storytelling skill that shapes Mark's Gospel. Mark lines up similar stories next to one another, like stained glass windows inviting comparison. Mark uses Scripture to shape the telling of a particular story. Mark uses a passage of Scripture in one way, then returns to that passage to undermine the previous message. Mark would shape readers' perceptions of Jesus and what it means to follow him before Mark will line up details of Jesus's life. And a student asked the pressing question: If we share stuff like this in church, we'll lose our jobs. Right? Maybe, but I don't think so. It's a common fear among religious leaders, that laypeople can't handle the truth or will punish them for telling it. I'm s