Mark 8:36 is a verse from the Gospel of Mark, which states: “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” This verse emphasizes the importance of spiritual well-being over material gain.

From an evangelical Christian perspective, the authorship of the Gospel of Mark is traditionally attributed to John Mark, a companion of the Apostle Peter. Here are some key points regarding the authorship and background of Mark:

1. **John Mark**: John Mark, often simply called Mark, is believed to have been a disciple of Peter. He is not one of the twelve apostles, but he played a significant role in the early Christian church.

2. **Association with Peter**: Many early church fathers, including Papias, a bishop in the early 2nd century, noted that Mark acted as Peter’s interpreter. This suggests that the Gospel of Mark is based primarily on Peter’s eyewitness accounts and teachings about Jesus.

3. **Writing Context**: The Gospel of Mark is often considered the earliest of the four Gospels, likely written around AD 65-70. It is thought to have been written in Rome or Syria during a time of persecution, and it presents a vivid, fast-paced account of Jesus’ life and ministry.

4. **Themes of Discipleship**: Mark emphasizes the cost of discipleship, which is evident in Mark 8:36. The verse highlights Jesus’ teaching that spiritual matters and the condition of one’s soul are far more valuable than worldly success or possessions.

5. **Evangelical Interpretation**: Evangelical Christians typically view the Gospel of Mark as authoritative Scripture, providing a crucial account of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and an important message for Christians about prioritizing their relationship with God over earthly ambitions.

In summary, the Gospel of Mark is attributed to John Mark, and its teaching, particularly in verses like Mark 8:36, underscores core evangelical beliefs about the importance of spiritual priorities and the cost of following Christ.