How much of our lives are ruled by fear, by our need to please people, fear of our own inadequacy, fear of taking risks, and fear of being shamed or rejected? This study of the Gospel of Mark will first examine John Mark's life, including his failure to complete his missionary journey with Paul and Barnabas. The resulting conflict between Paul and Barnabas led them to part company. Paul later affirmed John Mark when he said, e is helpful to me in my ministry. As we study, we will use the lens of this failure, and later reconciliation and affirmation, to examine the lessons found in the Gospel of Mark.

Today we also need courage to overcome our fears and move forward in freedom to fruitful ministry. This Bible study with group discussion guide seeks to make Phil.1:20 a reality in our lives: "I eagerly expect and hope that I will . . . have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body."