In the context of the Gospels, who is often regarded as a second-generation Christian?

In the context of the Gospels, Mark is often regarded as a second-generation Christian because he is believed to have written his Gospel after the life and teachings of Jesus. Mark is traditionally thought to have been a companion to the Apostle Peter, and his writings reflect the experiences and teachings of those who were directly connected to Jesus and the early Christian community. This positions him as a figure who came to faith in Christ through the first-generation apostles rather than being a part of the original discipleship that followed Jesus during his earthly ministry.

The other figures mentioned have different associations. Jesus is, of course, the central figure of Christianity and the first generation. Matthew and John, while also key Gospel writers, are often considered part of the first generation as they were likely apostles who directly followed Jesus. Mark's role as one who learned from the firsthand accounts of the apostles makes him representative of the second generation that built on the foundations laid by Jesus and his immediate followers.