Mark is a prolific author of news, opinion, and analysis pieces addressing issues at the intersection of faith, culture, and politics. He is also the author of three books, the most recent of which is Why Churches Need to Talk About Sexuality (Fortress Press, 2019). He also gained national prominence in 2016 with his TedX Talk titled "The Baptist Pastor and His Transgender Friends."

He earned a journalism degree from the University of New Mexico in 1984 and completed core studies toward the Master of Divinity degree at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary from 1985 to 1988. As both a layperson and a pastor, Mark has been active in support of the nonprofit sector, helping launch four nonprofit organizations. He currently serves on Gateway of Grace Ministries Board of Directors, and Gaston Christian Center, both in Dallas.
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Mark and his wife, Alison, have identical twin sons, both professional jazz musicians.​