---

A commitment to authentic and effective cross-cultural ministry, especially in a resistant context, demands that the challenge of contextualisation be dealt with properly. One form of contextualisation, namely the application of redemptive analogies, may hold particular promise for cross-cultural ministers. The present study favourably evaluates the proposal that the high regard for authority endemic in Turkish culture might be a divinely implanted bridge by which Turks can grasp the import of the biblical account of Jesus´ person and work, especially as presented in Mark´s gospel. Following a survey of the scope and importance of Jesus´ authority in Mark´s account, two critical issues that impinge on our understanding of Markan christology the questions of 1) the intent and genre of Mark´s gospel, and 2) Mark´s use of honorific titles for Jesus are evaluated with an eye to grasping the missiological implications of Jesus´ authority, not only for Turkish culture, but also for evangelism and discipleship in all times and places.

---

is a scientific translator-editor who has resided with his family in Ankara since 1990. Trained as a geologist, he has also studied intercultural studies and theology in the USA and Wales, respectively. His present research interests are worldview analysis/change and the doctrine of common grace.

---