Also known as [[John Mark]], Mark was a companion of [[Paul]] and later developed a significant ministry with Peter. He is traditionally understood to be the author of the [[Gospel of Mark]]. ## Background Mark was the cousin of [[Barnabas]] and a [[Roman]] [[Jew]]. It was common for [[Roman]] [[Jew]]s to have two names: a [[Semitic]] name (John) and a [[Greco-Roman]] one (Mark/Marcus, the [[Latin]] name). ## Early Ministry and Conflict Mark accompanied [[Paul]] and [[Barnabas]] on Paul's first missionary journey but abandoned the mission partway through (referenced in [[Acts 13]]:13 and [[Acts 15]]:36-41). This abandonment led to a sharp disagreement and split between [[Paul]] and [[Barnabas]], with [[Barnabas]] taking Mark while [[Paul]] chose a different companion for his subsequent journey. ## Reconciliation with Paul Despite his earlier failings, Mark was later reconciled to [[Paul]]. He is mentioned in the greetings in [[Colossians 4]]:10 and [[Bible/Books/Philemon|Philemon]] 24. In [[2 Timothy 4]]:11, [[Paul]] describes Mark as being useful to his ministry, indicating a complete restoration of their relationship. ## Ministry with Peter Mark later developed a significant ministry in [[Rome]] with Peter (referenced in [[1 Peter 5]]:13). It is believed that he wrote the [[Gospel of Mark]] under Peter's authority.