Introduction There seems to be much controversy over the literal or figurative nature of the Gospels. One position views the Bible very literally; yet other positions believe that the Bible is metaphorical or symbolic with hidden contexts understood only by the original readers. Once you eliminate the controversy in the text, you are left with the truth of Scripture. This truth is that Jesus was the Great Shepherd who had all authority over demons and proclaimed the release of captives. In this article, we will examine Mark's telling of this powerful story to see its purpose, style, and context. We will then begin to consider the theological applications of this text to reveal the true heart of Christ towards the men of biblical times and today. Historical Context Occasion and Purpose Mark's main purpose was to encourage Roman believers not to lose heart even in the face of persecution. . According to Donald Stamps, the book of Mark was written to strengthen the foundations of faith in Roman believers and, if necessary, to inspire them to suffer faithfully for the gospel, setting before them the life, suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus their Lord. Because of the rule of the Roman Empire and the harsh treatment of Believers during the time the book of Mark was written, they needed the assurance and encouragement to endure suffering and persevere. Craig Keener writes: “the most likely situation in the early church proposed for Mark's writings is the suffering of Roman Christians under Nero starting in 64 AD.” Nero was particularly brutal with the Christians. It is believed that Nero set Christians on fire and used them as torches to light his gardens at night. So Christians began to experiment...... middle of paper ......Scriptures: Mark. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2008.Longman, Tremper III, and David E. Garland Expositor's Bible Commentary: Revised Edition, Vol. 9. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2000.Marcus, Joel The Anchor Bible: Mark 1-8, vol. 2. New York: Doubleday, 2000-2009.McDonald, Dennis R. “The Homeric Epic and the Gospel of Mark.” Journal of Theological Studies (Yale University Press) 52, no. 1 (2000): 196-262. Stamps, Donald C. The Bible for Lifelong Study. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1992. Stein, Robert H. Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament: Mark. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2008. The Holy Bible: New International Version. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1984.Wiersbe, Warren W. The Bible Exposition Commentary, vol. 1. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996.. Wiersbe's Expository Outlines of the New Testament, Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1992.