October 11, 2025
What is the good news about Jesus?
Mark 14-16
Conner Price
Big Book Idea
Written to Romans, and full of miracles, the Gospel of Mark shows Jesus came as a servant.
Key Verse | Mark 16:6
And he said to them, "Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him."
Mark 14-16
Chapter 14
The Plot to Kill Jesus
1 It was now two days before the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. And the chief priests and the scribes were seeking how to arrest him by stealth and kill him, 2 for they said, “Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar from the people.”
Jesus Anointed at Bethany
3 And while he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, 1 14:3 Leprosy was a term for several skin diseases; see Leviticus 13 as he was reclining at table, a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head. 4 There were some who said to themselves indignantly, “Why was the ointment wasted like that? 5 For this ointment could have been sold for more than three hundred denarii 2 14:5 A denarius was a day's wage for a laborer and given to the poor.” And they scolded her. 6 But Jesus said, “Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 7 For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me. 8 She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for burial. 9 And truly, I say to you, wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in memory of her.”
Judas to Betray Jesus
10 Then Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve, went to the chief priests in order to betray him to them. 11 And when they heard it, they were glad and promised to give him money. And he sought an opportunity to betray him.
The Passover with the Disciples
12 And on the first day of Unleavened Bread, when they sacrificed the Passover lamb, his disciples said to him, “Where will you have us go and prepare for you to eat the Passover?” 13 And he sent two of his disciples and said to them, “Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him, 14 and wherever he enters, say to the master of the house, ‘The Teacher says, Where is my guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’ 15 And he will show you a large upper room furnished and ready; there prepare for us.” 16 And the disciples set out and went to the city and found it just as he had told them, and they prepared the Passover.
17 And when it was evening, he came with the twelve. 18 And as they were reclining at table and eating, Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me, one who is eating with me.” 19 They began to be sorrowful and to say to him one after another, “Is it I?” 20 He said to them, “It is one of the twelve, one who is dipping bread into the dish with me. 21 For the Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had not been born.”
Institution of the Lord's Supper
22 And as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to them, and said, “Take; this is my body.” 23 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. 24 And he said to them, “This is my blood of the 3 14:24 Some manuscripts insert new covenant, which is poured out for many. 25 Truly, I say to you, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”
Jesus Foretells Peter's Denial
26 And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. 27 And Jesus said to them, “You will all fall away, for it is written, ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’ 28 But after I am raised up, I will go before you to Galilee.” 29 Peter said to him, “Even though they all fall away, I will not.” 30 And Jesus said to him, “Truly, I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” 31 But he said emphatically, “If I must die with you, I will not deny you.” And they all said the same.
Jesus Prays in Gethsemane
32 And they went to a place called Gethsemane. And he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” 33 And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. 34 And he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch.” 4 14:34 Or keep awake; also verses 37, 38 35 And going a little farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. 36 And he said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” 37 And he came and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Could you not watch one hour? 38 Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 39 And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. 40 And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy, and they did not know what to answer him. 41 And he came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42 Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand.”
Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus
43 And immediately, while he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 44 Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man. Seize him and lead him away under guard.” 45 And when he came, he went up to him at once and said, “Rabbi!” And he kissed him. 46 And they laid hands on him and seized him. 47 But one of those who stood by drew his sword and struck the servant 5 14:47 Or bondservant of the high priest and cut off his ear. 48 And Jesus said to them, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me? 49 Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. But let the Scriptures be fulfilled.” 50 And they all left him and fled.
A Young Man Flees
51 And a young man followed him, with nothing but a linen cloth about his body. And they seized him, 52 but he left the linen cloth and ran away naked.
Jesus Before the Council
53 And they led Jesus to the high priest. And all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes came together. 54 And Peter had followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. And he was sitting with the guards and warming himself at the fire. 55 Now the chief priests and the whole council 6 14:55 Greek Sanhedrin were seeking testimony against Jesus to put him to death, but they found none. 56 For many bore false witness against him, but their testimony did not agree. 57 And some stood up and bore false witness against him, saying, 58 “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with hands.’” 59 Yet even about this their testimony did not agree. 60 And the high priest stood up in the midst and asked Jesus, “Have you no answer to make? What is it that these men testify against you?” 7 14:60 Or Have you no answer to what these men testify against you? 61 But he remained silent and made no answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” 62 And Jesus said, “I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” 63 And the high priest tore his garments and said, “What further witnesses do we need? 64 You have heard his blasphemy. What is your decision?” And they all condemned him as deserving death. 65 And some began to spit on him and to cover his face and to strike him, saying to him, “Prophesy!” And the guards received him with blows.
Peter Denies Jesus
66 And as Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came, 67 and seeing Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, “You also were with the Nazarene, Jesus.” 68 But he denied it, saying, “I neither know nor understand what you mean.” And he went out into the gateway 8 14:68 Or forecourt and the rooster crowed. 9 14:68 Some manuscripts omit and the rooster crowed 69 And the servant girl saw him and began again to say to the bystanders, “This man is one of them.” 70 But again he denied it. And after a little while the bystanders again said to Peter, “Certainly you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.” 71 But he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, “I do not know this man of whom you speak.” 72 And immediately the rooster crowed a second time. And Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept. 10 14:72 Or And when he had thought about it, he wept
Chapter 15
Jesus Delivered to Pilate
1 And as soon as it was morning, the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council. And they bound Jesus and led him away and delivered him over to Pilate. 2 And Pilate asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” And he answered him, “You have said so.” 3 And the chief priests accused him of many things. 4 And Pilate again asked him, “Have you no answer to make? See how many charges they bring against you.” 5 But Jesus made no further answer, so that Pilate was amazed.
Pilate Delivers Jesus to Be Crucified
6 Now at the feast he used to release for them one prisoner for whom they asked. 7 And among the rebels in prison, who had committed murder in the insurrection, there was a man called Barabbas. 8 And the crowd came up and began to ask Pilate to do as he usually did for them. 9 And he answered them, saying, “Do you want me to release for you the King of the Jews?” 10 For he perceived that it was out of envy that the chief priests had delivered him up. 11 But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have him release for them Barabbas instead. 12 And Pilate again said to them, “Then what shall I do with the man you call the King of the Jews?” 13 And they cried out again, “Crucify him.” 14 And Pilate said to them, “Why? What evil has he done?” But they shouted all the more, “Crucify him.” 15 So Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released for them Barabbas, and having scourged 11 15:15 A Roman judicial penalty, consisting of a severe beating with a multi-lashed whip containing embedded pieces of bone and metal Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.
Jesus Is Mocked
16 And the soldiers led him away inside the palace (that is, the governor's headquarters), 12 15:16 Greek the praetorium and they called together the whole battalion. 13 15:16 Greek cohort; a tenth of a Roman legion, usually about 600 men 17 And they clothed him in a purple cloak, and twisting together a crown of thorns, they put it on him. 18 And they began to salute him, “Hail, King of the Jews!” 19 And they were striking his head with a reed and spitting on him and kneeling down in homage to him. 20 And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the purple cloak and put his own clothes on him. And they led him out to crucify him.
The Crucifixion
21 And they compelled a passerby, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming in from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to carry his cross. 22 And they brought him to the place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull). 23 And they offered him wine mixed with myrrh, but he did not take it. 24 And they crucified him and divided his garments among them, casting lots for them, to decide what each should take. 25 And it was the third hour 14 15:25 That is, 9 a.m. when they crucified him. 26 And the inscription of the charge against him read, “The King of the Jews.” 27 And with him they crucified two robbers, one on his right and one on his left. 15 15:27 Some manuscripts insert verse 28: And the Scripture was fulfilled that says, He was numbered with the transgressors 29 And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads and saying, “Aha! You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, 30 save yourself, and come down from the cross!” 31 So also the chief priests with the scribes mocked him to one another, saying, “He saved others; he cannot save himself. 32 Let the Christ, the King of Israel, come down now from the cross that we may see and believe.” Those who were crucified with him also reviled him.
The Death of Jesus
33 And when the sixth hour 16 15:33 That is, noon had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. 17 15:33 That is, 3 p.m. 34 And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” 35 And some of the bystanders hearing it said, “Behold, he is calling Elijah.” 36 And someone ran and filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on a reed and gave it to him to drink, saying, “Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to take him down.” 37 And Jesus uttered a loud cry and breathed his last. 38 And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. 39 And when the centurion, who stood facing him, saw that in this way he 18 15:39 Some manuscripts insert cried out and breathed his last, he said, “Truly this man was the Son 19 15:39 Or a son of God!”
40 There were also women looking on from a distance, among whom were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses, and Salome. 41 When he was in Galilee, they followed him and ministered to him, and there were also many other women who came up with him to Jerusalem.
Jesus Is Buried
42 And when evening had come, since it was the day of Preparation, that is, the day before the Sabbath, 43 Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the council, who was also himself looking for the kingdom of God, took courage and went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. 44 Pilate was surprised to hear that he should have already died. 20 15:44 Or Pilate wondered whether he had already died And summoning the centurion, he asked him whether he was already dead. 45 And when he learned from the centurion that he was dead, he granted the corpse to Joseph. 46 And Joseph 21 15:46 Greek he bought a linen shroud, and taking him down, wrapped him in the linen shroud and laid him in a tomb that had been cut out of the rock. And he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb. 47 Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where he was laid.
Chapter 16
The Resurrection
1 When the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him. 2 And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the tomb. 3 And they were saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?” 4 And looking up, they saw that the stone had been rolled back—it was very large. 5 And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe, and they were alarmed. 6 And he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.” 8 And they went out and fled from the tomb, for trembling and astonishment had seized them, and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.
[Some of the earliest manuscripts do not include 16:9–20.] 22 16:9 Some manuscripts end the book with 16:8; others include verses 920 immediately after verse 8. At least one manuscript inserts additional material after verse 14; some manuscripts include after verse 8 the following: But they reported briefly to Peter and those with him all that they had been told. And after this, Jesus himself sent out by means of them, from east to west, the sacred and imperishable proclamation of eternal salvation. These manuscripts then continue with verses 920
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
9 [[Now when he rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons. 10 She went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept. 11 But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it.
Jesus Appears to Two Disciples
12 After these things he appeared in another form to two of them, as they were walking into the country. 13 And they went back and told the rest, but they did not believe them.
The Great Commission
14 Afterward he appeared to the eleven themselves as they were reclining at table, and he rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who saw him after he had risen. 15 And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. 16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
19 So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God. 20 And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by accompanying signs.]]
Footnotes
[1] 14:3 Leprosy was a term for several skin diseases; see Leviticus 13[2] 14:5 A denarius was a day's wage for a laborer
[3] 14:24 Some manuscripts insert new
[4] 14:34 Or keep awake; also verses 37, 38
[5] 14:47 Or bondservant
[6] 14:55 Greek Sanhedrin
[7] 14:60 Or Have you no answer to what these men testify against you?
[8] 14:68 Or forecourt
[9] 14:68 Some manuscripts omit and the rooster crowed
[10] 14:72 Or And when he had thought about it, he wept
[11] 15:15 A Roman judicial penalty, consisting of a severe beating with a multi-lashed whip containing embedded pieces of bone and metal
[12] 15:16 Greek the praetorium
[13] 15:16 Greek cohort; a tenth of a Roman legion, usually about 600 men
[14] 15:25 That is, 9 a.m.
[15] 15:27 Some manuscripts insert verse 28: And the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “He was numbered with the transgressors”
[16] 15:33 That is, noon
[17] 15:33 That is, 3 p.m.
[18] 15:39 Some manuscripts insert cried out and
[19] 15:39 Or a son
[20] 15:44 Or Pilate wondered whether he had already died
[21] 15:46 Greek he
[22] 16:9 Some manuscripts end the book with 16:8; others include verses 9–20 immediately after verse 8. At least one manuscript inserts additional material after verse 14; some manuscripts include after verse 8 the following: But they reported briefly to Peter and those with him all that they had been told. And after this, Jesus himself sent out by means of them, from east to west, the sacred and imperishable proclamation of eternal salvation. These manuscripts then continue with verses 9–20
Table of Contents
Introduction to Mark
Timeline
Author, Date, and Recipients
The apostle Peter passed on reports of the words and deeds of Jesus to his attendant, John Mark, who wrote this Gospel for the wider church as the record of Peter’s apostolic testimony. The book was likely written from Rome during the mid- to late-50s A.D. (though the mid- or late-60s is also possible). Mark’s audience, largely unfamiliar with Jewish customs, needed to become familiar with such customs in order to understand the coming of Jesus as the culmination of God’s work with Israel and the entire world, so Mark explains them.
Purpose and Theme
The ultimate purpose and theme of Mark’s Gospel is to present and defend Jesus’ universal call to discipleship. Mark returns often to this theme, categorizing his main audience as either followers or opponents of Jesus. Mark presents and supports this call to discipleship by narrating the identity and teaching of Jesus. For Mark, discipleship is essentially a relationship with Jesus, not merely following a certain code of conduct. Fellowship with Jesus marks the heart of the disciple’s life, and this fellowship includes trusting Jesus, confessing him, observing his conduct, following his teaching, and being shaped by a relationship with him. Discipleship also means being prepared to face the kind of rejection that Jesus faced.
Key Themes
- Jesus seeks to correct messianic expectations and misunderstandings (1:25, 34, 44; 3:12; 4:10–12; 5:18–19, 43; 8:30; 9:9).
- Jesus is man (3:5; 4:38; 6:6; 7:34; 8:12, 33; 10:14; 11:12; 14:33–42).
- Jesus is the Son of God (1:11; 3:11; 5:7; 8:38; 9:7; 12:6–8; 13:32; 14:36, 61; 15:39).
- Jesus is the Son of Man with all power and authority (1:16–34; 2:3–12, 23–28; 3:11; 4:35–41; 6:45–52; 7:1–23; 10:1–12).
- Jesus as the Son of Man must suffer (8:31; 10:45; 14:21, 36).
- Jesus is Lord (2:28; 12:35–37; 14:62).
- Jesus calls his followers to imitate him in humble service, self-denial, and suffering (8:34–38; 9:35–37; 10:35–45).
- Jesus teaches on the kingdom of God, and implies that God continues to call a people to himself (compare 1:15; 9:1; 14:25; 15:43).
Outline
- Introduction (1:1–15)
- Demonstration of Jesus’ Authority (1:16–8:26)
- Testing Jesus’ Authority in Suffering (8:27–16:8)
- Journey to Jerusalem (8:27–10:52)
- Entering and judging Jerusalem (11:1–13:37)
- Death and resurrection in Jerusalem (14:1–16:8)
- “Longer ending of Mark” (16:9–20; see note)]
The Setting of Mark
The events in the book of Mark take place almost entirely within Palestine, from Caesarea Philippi in the north to Beersheba in the south. During this time Palestine was ruled by the Roman Empire. The book opens with Jesus’ baptism by John during the rule of Pontius Pilate and the tetrarchs Antipas and Philip. It closes with Jesus’ death and resurrection about three years later.
Fact: Father
Jesus encourages his disciples to call God their Father (6:6, 9). This reminds believers that God has adopted them as his children because of Jesus (see Rom. 8:15; Gal. 4:6). In Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus, “Abba” was the word for father (see Mark 14:36).
Fact: The sun shall be turned to darkness
The sun shall be turned to darkness could be describing a solar eclipse, but more broadly this refers to the disintegration of the cosmos, which was understood by Jews to be a sign of God’s judgment. Note that when Jesus was on the cross, the earth became dark for three hours, indicating God’s judgment (see Mark 15:33).
Fact: Rabbi
Rabbi (14:45) literally means “my lord.” The title was used to address outstanding teachers of the Jewish law. Jesus told the disciples that they were not to be called rabbi, because they, like all believers in Christ everywhere in the world, have one true teacher—the Lord Jesus himself (Matt. 23:8).
Fact: Releasing prisoners
Releasing prisoners (15:6) was apparently a custom the Roman governor Pilate had instituted as a means of winning favor with the Jewish people. Ironically, in this case, he ended up releasing a man convicted of rebelling against Rome.
Fact: Scourging
Scourging is another term for flogging, a cruel punishment used by the Romans (15:15). Prisoners were tied to a post and beaten with a leather whip that had pieces of bone and metal attached to it. In many cases, scourging was fatal.
The Last Supper
After Jesus and his disciples ate the Passover meal, they crossed the Kidron Valley and entered a garden called Gethsemane (meaning “oil press”), where they often spent time while visiting Jerusalem (see Luke 22:39).
Jesus’ Arrest, Trial, and Crucifixion
The path from Jesus’ arrest to his crucifixion (part of which is often called the Via Dolorosa, “Way of Sorrows”) is difficult to retrace with certainty. According to a possible harmony of the Gospel accounts, after the Passover meal Judas led a contingent of soldiers to Gethsemane to arrest Jesus (1). From there Jesus was led to Annas (location unknown), who sent him to his son-in-law Caiaphas, the high priest (2). The Jewish leaders then appealed to the Roman governor Pilate to have Jesus put to death (3). Luke records that Pilate sent Jesus to Herod Antipas (4), who questioned Jesus but returned him to Pilate without rendering any judgment (5). Pilate then sent Jesus to be crucified at Golgotha (6).
Zechariah Texts Quoted in the New Testament Regarding Jesus’ Ministry
| Zechariah Text | Content Summary | NT Passages |
|---|---|---|
| 9:9 | the king comes to Zion humble and riding a donkey | Matt. 21:5; John 12:15 |
| 11:13 | 30 pieces of silver thrown into the house of the Lord | Matt. 27:9 |
| 12:10 | looking on him whom they have pierced | John 19:37; Rev. 1:7 |
| 13:7 | the shepherd is struck and the sheep scattered | Matt. 26:31; Mark 14:27 |
Harmony of the Events of Holy Week
| Day | Event | Matthew | Mark | Luke | John |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Friday/Saturday | Jesus arrives in Bethany | 12:1 | |||
| Mary anoints Jesus | 12:2–8 | ||||
| Crowd comes to see Jesus | 12:9–11 | ||||
| Sunday | Triumphal entry into Jerusalem | 21:1–11 | 11:1–10 | 19:28–44 | 12:12–18 |
| Some Greeks seek Jesus | 12:20–36 | ||||
| Jesus weeps over Jerusalem | 19:41 | ||||
| Enters temple | 11:11 | ||||
| Returns to Bethany | 21:17 | 11:11 | |||
| Monday | Jesus curses the fig tree | 21:18–19 | 11:12–14 | ||
| Clears the temple | 21:12–13 | 11:15–17 | 19:45–46 | ||
| Returns to Bethany with the Twelve | 11:19 | ||||
| Tuesday | Disciples see the withered fig tree on the return to Jerusalem | 21:20–22 | 11:20–21 | ||
| Temple controversies in Jerusalem | 21:23–23:39 | 11:27–12:44 | 20:1–21:4 | ||
| Olivet Discourse on the return to Bethany | 24:1–25:46 | 13:1–37 | 21:5–36 | ||
| Wednesday | Jesus continues daily teaching in the temple | 21:37–38 | |||
| Sanhedrin plots to kill Jesus | 26:3–5 | 14:1–2 | 22:1–2 | ||
| Wednesday/Thursday | Preparations for the Passover | 26:17–19 | 14:12–16 | 22:7–13 | |
| Thursday | Passover meal/Last Supper | 26:20–35 | 14:17–26 | 22:14–30 | |
| Upper Room Discourse | 13:1–17:26 | ||||
| Jesus prays in Gethsemane | 26:36–46 | 14:32–42 | 22:39–46 | ||
| Friday | Betrayal and arrest (after midnight?) | 26:47–56 | 14:43–52 | 22:47–53 | 18:2–12 |
| Jewish trial: | |||||
| —before Annas | 18:13–24 | ||||
| —before Caiaphas and part of the Sanhedrin | 26:57–75 | 14:53–72 | 22:54–65 | 18:19–24 | |
| —before full Sanhedrin (after sunrise?) | 27:1–2 | 15:1 | 22:66–71 | ||
| Roman trials: | |||||
| —before Pilate | 27:2–14 | 15:2–5 | 23:1–5 | ||
| —before Herod | 23:6–12 | ||||
| —before Pilate | 27:15–26 | 15:6–15 | 23:13–25 | 18:28–19:16 | |
| Crucifixion (approx. 9:00 A.M.to 3:00 P.M.) | 27:27–54 | 15:16–39 | 23:26–49 | 19:16–37 | |
| Burial (evening) | 27:57–61 | 15:42–47 | 23:50–54 | 19:38–42 | |
| Sunday | Empty-tomb witnesses | 28:1–8 | 16:1–8 | 24:1–12 | |
| Resurrection appearances | 28:9–20 | 16:9–20 | 24:13–53 | 20:1–21:25 |
Judas Iscariot
Judas Iscariot was one of the original 12 apostles. The literal meaning of the name Iscariot is “man of Kerioth”; if Judas was in fact from this town, located near Hebron, then he was the only apostle from Judea. As treasurer for the disciples, Judas regularly helped himself to whatever was in the moneybag. For the price of 30 pieces of silver, Judas betrayed Jesus to the chief priests, which led to Jesus being crucified. Overcome with regret, Judas later returned the money and then hanged himself. Following his death, he was replaced as an apostle by Matthias. (Mark 14:43-45)
Pontius Pilate
Pontius Pilate was the Roman governor of Judea during the ministry of Jesus. This position meant that he was the only person who could either pardon a prisoner or sentence him to death. When Jesus was brought before him for judgment, Pilate recognized that Jesus was innocent and was amazed that Jesus refused to defend himself. Even Pilate’s wife saw that Jesus was innocent, and warned her husband not to get involved in the case. Pilate was also aware that the Jewish leaders had turned Jesus over to him because they felt threatened by his popularity and his authoritative ministry. Despite all of these warning signs, Pilate gave in to the crowds and handed Jesus over to be crucified. (Mark 15:15)
Mark 14:3–5 Bethany. See note on Matt. 21:17. The sale of such costly oil would have yielded more than 300 days’ wages of a laborer. This story is also reported in Matt. 26:6–13 and John 12:1–8, where the woman is identified as Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus. The story in Luke 7:36–50 is a different event, occurring at a different time in Jesus’ ministry, with a different woman, different actions, different critics, and a different response from Jesus.
Mark 14:6–9 anointed . . . beforehand for burial. With this remark, Jesus again predicts his death (compare 8:31; 9:30–31; 10:33–34). you always have the poor with you. Believers should do good for the poor, without expecting to completely eradicate poverty in this age (compare Deut. 15:11). The inclusion of this story in the written Gospels fulfills Jesus’ prediction that the story would be told wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world.
Mark 14:10–11 The Jewish authorities were glad for the help of Judas Iscariot; he would be able to tell them where Jesus could be found when there were no crowds present. Mark, like Luke (Luke 22:5), simply says Judas was given money in exchange for betraying Jesus; Matthew records the exact amount: “thirty pieces of silver” (see note on Matt. 26:15–16).
Mark 14:12 The first day of Unleavened Bread (Ex. 12:15, 18) could refer to either Nisan 14 or Nisan 15, and Passover lambs were apparently killed on both days, but here Mark is referring to Nisan 14 (Thursday). (Nisan usually falls somewhere in March/April in the Gregorian calendar; see note on Matt. 26:17.) The Passover lamb is to be eaten within the walls of Jerusalem. Preparations for the meal have to be made inconspicuously, since Jesus is already a marked target.
The Last Supper
After Jesus and his disciples ate the Passover meal, they crossed the Kidron Valley and entered a garden called Gethsemane (meaning “oil press”), where they often spent time while visiting Jerusalem (see Luke 22:39).
Mark 14:13 a man carrying a jar of water. See note on Luke 22:7–13.
Mark 14:16 just as he had told them. Either Jesus had made prior arrangements with friends in Jerusalem in order to avoid the Jewish authorities, or the encounter was a miraculous work of God.
Mark 14:17 After sunset, the Passover meal begins. The celebrants remember the beginning of Israel’s deliverance from slavery, when the Lord brought judgment by killing the firstborn in every Egyptian house but “passed over” the Israelite houses where the blood of the Passover lamb had been applied (Ex. 12:7). Those who celebrate the Passover also look forward to the ultimate liberation (Ex. 12:42). From now on, Jesus’ blood will protect from judgment those who take refuge in him (1 Cor. 5:7).
Mark 14:18 reclining at table. See note on Matt. 26:20. Despite intimate fellowship, Judas will betray his master (Ps. 41:9).
Mark 14:21 Jesus confirms that the Son of Man goes as it is written (see Ps. 55:13–14; Isa. 53:1–12; Dan. 9:25–26; Mark 8:31). but woe to that man. Even though the Scriptures have predicted that Jesus would suffer a substitutionary death, Judas is responsible for his evil deed. Scripture consistently affirms both God’s sovereignty and human responsibility (see note on Eph. 1:11).
Mark 14:22 On the differing views regarding the communion elements, see notes on Luke 22:19; 1 Cor. 11:24.
Mark 14:23–24 he took a cup. See note on Matt. 26:27. The communion wine corresponds to the covenant-establishing, once-and-for-all shed blood of Jesus as atonement for many (Mark 10:45; compare Ex. 24:8; Isa. 53:12; Jer. 31:31–34).
Mark 14:25 that day when I drink it new. Jesus is confident that his impending death will not prevent his celebration in the future kingdom of God.
Mark 14:26 hymn. See note on Matt. 26:30. went out to the Mount of Olives. Passover celebrants were to remain in Jerusalem for this night (Deut. 16:7), therefore Jesus did not return to Bethany.
Zechariah Texts Quoted in the New Testament Regarding Jesus’ Ministry
| Zechariah Text | Content Summary | NT Passages |
|---|---|---|
| 9:9 | the king comes to Zion humble and riding a donkey | Matt. 21:5; John 12:15 |
| 11:13 | 30 pieces of silver thrown into the house of the Lord | Matt. 27:9 |
| 12:10 | looking on him whom they have pierced | John 19:37; Rev. 1:7 |
| 13:7 | the shepherd is struck and the sheep scattered | Matt. 26:31; Mark 14:27 |
Mark 14:27–28 strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered. Knowing that his disciples will soon desert him (see v. 50), Jesus quotes Zech. 13:7. The striking of the shepherd occurs in order to purify the people (Zech. 13:1, 7, 9). Jesus is confident that, though his flock will soon desert him, he will once again gather them (after I am raised up; see Mark 16:7). It is unclear why Jesus chooses Galilee (the home region of the disciples) as the place for this post-resurrection gathering. Perhaps it is so that the disciples will not expect a revolutionary event in Jerusalem (see Acts 1:6).
Mark 14:30 before the rooster crows twice. Each morning, roosters would crow a number of times separated by a few minutes. Jesus here specifies the first two individual crowings (see v. 72). Matthew, Luke, and John, however, refer to the entire time of several crowings.
Mark 14:32 On Gethsemane, see note on Matt. 26:36.
Mark 14:36 The cup is symbolic language for the wrath of God, which he would pour out on sinners in righteous judgment (see note on Luke 22:42). In this time of trial, Jesus entrusts himself into the hands of his Father. On Abba, see note on Matt. 6:9.
Fact: Father
Jesus encourages his disciples to call God their Father (6:6, 9). This reminds believers that God has adopted them as his children because of Jesus (see Rom. 8:15; Gal. 4:6). In Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus, “Abba” was the word for father (see Mark 14:36).
Mark 14:38 The spirit indeed is willing is a reference not to the Holy Spirit but to the disciples’ human spirits. They desired to follow Jesus and be faithful (see v. 31), but quickly gave in to physical fatigue: the flesh is weak.
Mark 14:39 Saying the same words does not mean the “empty phrases” that Jesus had taught against (Matt. 6:7). This was earnest repetition expressing the deep longing of his heart. For repetition in prayer, compare Ps. 136:1–26; Isa. 6:3; 2 Cor. 12:8.
Mark 14:41 It is enough may mean: (1) enough prayer and wrestling with God—it is settled, and Jesus is going to the cross; (2) enough time—the end has come; or (3) enough sleep—it is time for the disciples to awake. The hour refers here to the time of Jesus’ death and of his bearing divine judgment (as in vv. 35–36).
Fact: Rabbi
Rabbi (14:45) literally means “my lord.” The title was used to address outstanding teachers of the Jewish law. Jesus told the disciples that they were not to be called rabbi, because they, like all believers in Christ everywhere in the world, have one true teacher—the Lord Jesus himself (Matt. 23:8).
Mark 14:43–46 Armed temple officials, employed by the Jewish leaders, arrest Jesus (vv. 46, 53). As a traitor, Judas misuses familiar actions of respect and friendship: he calls Jesus Rabbi and greets him with a kiss.
Mark 14:47 cut off his ear. See note on John 18:10.
Mark 14:50 they all left him. See note on vv. 27–28.
Mark 14:52 he left the linen cloth. This incident is recorded only in Mark’s Gospel. This has led many to think that Mark himself, the author of this Gospel, was this young man, but that out of modesty he did not include his own name.
Mark 14:53 Before daybreak on Friday, Nisan 15, Jesus is brought before the high priest Caiaphas (see note on John 18:24) and the Sanhedrin, which consisted of prominent Sadducees and Pharisees; see note on Matt. 26:59.
Jesus’ Arrest, Trial, and Crucifixion
The path from Jesus’ arrest to his crucifixion (part of which is often called the Via Dolorosa, “Way of Sorrows”) is difficult to retrace with certainty. According to a possible harmony of the Gospel accounts, after the Passover meal Judas led a contingent of soldiers to Gethsemane to arrest Jesus (1). From there Jesus was led to Annas (location unknown), who sent him to his son-in-law Caiaphas, the high priest (2). The Jewish leaders then appealed to the Roman governor Pilate to have Jesus put to death (3). Luke records that Pilate sent Jesus to Herod Antipas (4), who questioned Jesus but returned him to Pilate without rendering any judgment (5). Pilate then sent Jesus to be crucified at Golgotha (6).
Mark 14:56 The testimony of the many witnesses did not agree and thus it could not be used in a formal charge against Jesus (see Deut. 17:6).
Mark 14:58 Jesus never said that he would destroy the temple (see John 2:19). He is innocent of this charge, as the high priest is surely aware.
Mark 14:61–62 Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed? Jesus answers I am. He then claims to be the one who fulfills messianic prophecies from Ps. 110:1 and Dan. 7:13–14.
Mark 14:64 Jesus’ statement (v. 62) is considered blasphemy because he claims to be the Son of God, with an exalted position at the right hand of God.
Mark 14:65 and to strike him. Mistreatment follows the verdict of v. 64. See Isa. 50:6; 53:2–3. Only the Roman authorities can carry out a death sentence (see note on Mark 15:1), so Jesus has to be taken to Pilate.
Mark 14:72 the rooster crowed a second time. See note on v. 30.
Judas Iscariot
Judas Iscariot was one of the original 12 apostles. The literal meaning of the name Iscariot is “man of Kerioth”; if Judas was in fact from this town, located near Hebron, then he was the only apostle from Judea. As treasurer for the disciples, Judas regularly helped himself to whatever was in the moneybag. For the price of 30 pieces of silver, Judas betrayed Jesus to the chief priests, which led to Jesus being crucified. Overcome with regret, Judas later returned the money and then hanged himself. Following his death, he was replaced as an apostle by Matthias. (Mark 14:43-45)
Mark 15:1 The whole council is the Sanhedrin. It did not have the right to execute a person. That right was reserved for Roman authorities, especially when dealing with popular figures. Pilate (see note on Luke 23:1) was temporarily in Jerusalem “to keep the peace” during the Passover. The Jewish authorities did not want to be busy with the case during the festive Passover day.
Mark 15:2 When they brought Jesus to Pilate, the Jewish authorities did not accuse him of blasphemy, a religious crime that would have made no difference to Pilate. Rather, they accused him of claiming to be King of the Jews. This was a direct challenge to Caesar’s rule, and thus was a capital crime.
Fact: Releasing prisoners
Releasing prisoners (15:6) was apparently a custom the Roman governor Pilate had instituted as a means of winning favor with the Jewish people. Ironically, in this case, he ended up releasing a man convicted of rebelling against Rome.
Mark 15:6–7 release . . . one prisoner. . . . Barabbas. See note on Matt. 27:15–18.
Mark 15:11–13 release . . . Barabbas instead. Ironically, Pilate will free a man convicted of rebellion against Rome instead of a righteous man who has not spoken against Rome.
Mark 15:14 What evil has he done? See Isa. 53:9; Acts 3:13. By presenting evidence favorable to Jesus, Pilate tried to make the Jewish authorities solely responsible for his death. The fact remains, however, that Jesus’ death occurred under Pilate’s jurisdiction.
Mark 15:15 Pilate condemned Jesus to crucifixion, which was the means of executing criminals convicted of high treason. having scourged Jesus. Scourging, by itself, could lead to death (see note on Matt. 27:26).
Fact: Scourging
Scourging is another term for flogging, a cruel punishment used by the Romans (15:15). Prisoners were tied to a post and beaten with a leather whip that had pieces of bone and metal attached to it. In many cases, scourging was fatal.
Mark 15:16–19 On the governor’s headquarters, see note on John 18:28. The presence of the whole battalion (about 600 men at full strength) means they are assuming that Jesus is a rebel against Rome (King of the Jews).
Mark 15:21 According to both Jewish and Roman custom, Jesus had to be taken outside the city walls to be crucified. As allowed by Roman law, Simon of Cyrene was forced to carry Jesus’ cross (see note on Matt. 27:32). Crucifixion was the final public deterrent to warn people not to rebel against Rome. Alexander and Rufus may have been believers known in the early church at the time that Mark wrote his Gospel. See note on Rom. 16:13.
Mark 15:23 Wine mixed with myrrh is intended to have a mildly numbing effect.
Mark 15:24 And they crucified him. Jesus’ hands were nailed above the wrist on the horizontal beam, and his feet were placed with one above the other and then nailed to the vertical beam. On crucifixion, see note on Matt. 27:35. Casting lots fulfilled the prophecy in Ps. 22:18.
Mark 15:25 it was the third hour. John says “about the sixth hour,” but he was not trying to give the exact time. The time references should not be seen as contradictory (see note on John 19:14).
Mark 15:26 The inscription of the charge against him was posted above Jesus’ head, so that all could see why he was so shamefully executed. The inscription, King of the Jews, portrayed Jesus as a political rebel. This allowed Pilate to justify his actions. It also angered the Jewish authorities, who would never have claimed him as their king (John 19:19–22; compare Mark 15:10).
Mark 15:27 The two robbers crucified with Jesus fulfill the prophecy of Isa. 53:12. Luke alone records that, sometime later, one of the two robbers repented and expressed faith in Jesus (Luke 23:39–43).
Mark 15:29–31 Because it was Passover, many passed by the place of Christ’s crucifixion. wagging their heads. See Ps. 22:7–8. You who would destroy the temple. See note on Mark 14:58. Jesus appeared to have been silenced and divinely condemned for his blasphemy (see Deut. 21:23).
Mark 15:33 Between noon and 3:00 P.M. there was darkness. This sign from God was not a solar eclipse (see note on Matt. 27:45). Darkness represents lament (Amos 8:9–10) and divine judgment (see note on Luke 23:44–45).
Fact: The sun shall be turned to darkness
The sun shall be turned to darkness could be describing a solar eclipse, but more broadly this refers to the disintegration of the cosmos, which was understood by Jews to be a sign of God’s judgment. Note that when Jesus was on the cross, the earth became dark for three hours, indicating God’s judgment (see Mark 15:33).
Mark 15:34 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Jesus utters the opening words of Psalm 22. He expresses his immense pain at being abandoned by God, which he suffers as a substitute for sinful mankind. See note on Matt. 27:46. Yet the following verses of Psalm 22 also anticipate divine intervention on his behalf (compare Heb. 5:7–9). Jesus knows why he is experiencing God-forsakenness, just as he knows his death will not be the end of his story.
Mark 15:35 he is calling Elijah. See note on Matt. 27:47.
Mark 15:36 sour wine. See note on Luke 23:36.
Mark 15:37 The final loud cry is probably the cry of victory, “It is finished” (John 19:30). In Mark’s account, once Jesus dies, all mocking ceases. Subsequently, only the voices of the respectful (the centurion) and the mourners are heard. Jesus died around the time of the daily afternoon sacrifice in the temple.
Mark 15:38 The inner curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom, removing the separation between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (see Heb. 10:19–20; and note on Matt. 27:51). Access to God is now provided by the unique sacrifice of Jesus, making the temple sacrifices obsolete.
Mark 15:39 The centurion has observed the death of many crucified criminals. He recognizes correctly that Jesus is the Son of God.
Mark 15:40 women looking on. See note on Luke 23:49. Mary Magdalene. See note on Luke 8:2.
Mark 15:42 Deuteronomy 21:23 says that a corpse should be buried on the day of death (taking priority over Passover; see John 19:40). The day of Preparation is the day before the Sabbath. See note on John 19:14.
Mark 15:43 Joseph of Arimathea courageously intended to bury Jesus before the Sabbath began at sundown (Nisan 16). Matthew 27:57 calls him “a disciple of Jesus.” See note on Matt. 27:57–60.
Mark 15:46 Joseph wrapped the body of Jesus in a linen shroud and placed it in a tomb . . . cut out of the rock. Rock-cut tombs were expensive since they required extensive excavation. This tomb would most probably have been Joseph of Arimathea’s family tomb. After a body had decayed, its bones were removed and piled elsewhere in the tomb or reburied in an ossuary, a specially designed box which held one or two bodies. The two main locations where it is thought that Jesus may have been buried are the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Garden Tomb. Both of these were rock-cut tombs with rolling stone doors. Both would have been outside the first-century city walls. Early church tradition strongly favors the Holy Sepulchre site. The area around the Garden Tomb consists largely of tombs from OT times.
Pontius Pilate
Pontius Pilate was the Roman governor of Judea during the ministry of Jesus. This position meant that he was the only person who could either pardon a prisoner or sentence him to death. When Jesus was brought before him for judgment, Pilate recognized that Jesus was innocent and was amazed that Jesus refused to defend himself. Even Pilate’s wife saw that Jesus was innocent, and warned her husband not to get involved in the case. Pilate was also aware that the Jewish leaders had turned Jesus over to him because they felt threatened by his popularity and his authoritative ministry. Despite all of these warning signs, Pilate gave in to the crowds and handed Jesus over to be crucified. (Mark 15:15)
Mark 16:1–2 Once the Sabbath is over (at sundown on Saturday evening), the women can buy oils for embalming of the corpse after sunrise on Sunday morning (the first day of the week). This occurred on the “third day” (see 8:31; 10:34).
Mark 16:5 they saw a young man. An angel. Luke 24:4 and John 20:12 give additional information and say there were two angels, but Mark and Matthew mention only one (see Matt. 28:2–5).
Mark 16:7 go, tell his disciples. In NT times, the testimony of women as witnesses was not always believed, especially in a court of law. After the initial encounters with the risen Jesus in Jerusalem, Galilee again served as a place of preparation (as Jesus had predicted in 14:28). Jesus thus avoided the possibility that the disciples might expect him to usher in a political, messianic kingdom in Jerusalem. However, see Acts 1:6.
Mark 8:27–16:8 Testing Jesus’ Authority in Suffering. Having displayed his messianic authority and power (1:1–8:26), Jesus is now tested as the Messiah of God.
Mark 14:1–16:8 Death and Resurrection in Jerusalem. The final three chapters of Mark tell of the final week of Jesus’ earthly life: his betrayal, arrest, trial, death, and resurrection.
Mark 16:8 they said nothing to anyone. Their silence would be only temporary (see Matt. 28:8).
Mark 16:9–20 “Longer Ending of Mark.” Some ancient manuscripts of Mark’s Gospel contain these verses and others do not. Early church fathers did not appear to know of these verses. Eusebius and Jerome state that this section is missing in most manuscripts available at their time. And some manuscripts that contain vv. 9–20 indicate that older manuscripts lack the section. As for the verses themselves, they contain various Greek words and expressions uncommon to Mark, and there are stylistic differences as well. Many think this shows vv. 9–20 to be a later addition. In summary, vv. 9–20 should be read with caution. As in many translations, the editors of the ESV have placed the section within brackets, showing their doubts as to whether it was originally part of what Mark wrote. Most of the content of these verses is found elsewhere in the NT, and no point of doctrine is affected by their absence or presence. Verse 18 does not command believers to pick up serpents or to drink deadly poison; it merely promises protection if such a thing were to occur (see Acts 28:3–4; James 5:13–16).
Harmony of the Events of Holy Week
| Day | Event | Matthew | Mark | Luke | John |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Friday/Saturday | Jesus arrives in Bethany | 12:1 | |||
| Mary anoints Jesus | 12:2–8 | ||||
| Crowd comes to see Jesus | 12:9–11 | ||||
| Sunday | Triumphal entry into Jerusalem | 21:1–11 | 11:1–10 | 19:28–44 | 12:12–18 |
| Some Greeks seek Jesus | 12:20–36 | ||||
| Jesus weeps over Jerusalem | 19:41 | ||||
| Enters temple | 11:11 | ||||
| Returns to Bethany | 21:17 | 11:11 | |||
| Monday | Jesus curses the fig tree | 21:18–19 | 11:12–14 | ||
| Clears the temple | 21:12–13 | 11:15–17 | 19:45–46 | ||
| Returns to Bethany with the Twelve | 11:19 | ||||
| Tuesday | Disciples see the withered fig tree on the return to Jerusalem | 21:20–22 | 11:20–21 | ||
| Temple controversies in Jerusalem | 21:23–23:39 | 11:27–12:44 | 20:1–21:4 | ||
| Olivet Discourse on the return to Bethany | 24:1–25:46 | 13:1–37 | 21:5–36 | ||
| Wednesday | Jesus continues daily teaching in the temple | 21:37–38 | |||
| Sanhedrin plots to kill Jesus | 26:3–5 | 14:1–2 | 22:1–2 | ||
| Wednesday/Thursday | Preparations for the Passover | 26:17–19 | 14:12–16 | 22:7–13 | |
| Thursday | Passover meal/Last Supper | 26:20–35 | 14:17–26 | 22:14–30 | |
| Upper Room Discourse | 13:1–17:26 | ||||
| Jesus prays in Gethsemane | 26:36–46 | 14:32–42 | 22:39–46 | ||
| Friday | Betrayal and arrest (after midnight?) | 26:47–56 | 14:43–52 | 22:47–53 | 18:2–12 |
| Jewish trial: | |||||
| —before Annas | 18:13–24 | ||||
| —before Caiaphas and part of the Sanhedrin | 26:57–75 | 14:53–72 | 22:54–65 | 18:19–24 | |
| —before full Sanhedrin (after sunrise?) | 27:1–2 | 15:1 | 22:66–71 | ||
| Roman trials: | |||||
| —before Pilate | 27:2–14 | 15:2–5 | 23:1–5 | ||
| —before Herod | 23:6–12 | ||||
| —before Pilate | 27:15–26 | 15:6–15 | 23:13–25 | 18:28–19:16 | |
| Crucifixion (approx. 9:00 A.M.to 3:00 P.M.) | 27:27–54 | 15:16–39 | 23:26–49 | 19:16–37 | |
| Burial (evening) | 27:57–61 | 15:42–47 | 23:50–54 | 19:38–42 | |
| Sunday | Empty-tomb witnesses | 28:1–8 | 16:1–8 | 24:1–12 | |
| Resurrection appearances | 28:9–20 | 16:9–20 | 24:13–53 | 20:1–21:25 |
Introduction to Mark
Timeline
Author, Date, and Recipients
The apostle Peter passed on reports of the words and deeds of Jesus to his attendant, John Mark, who wrote this Gospel for the wider church as the record of Peter’s apostolic testimony. The book was likely written from Rome during the mid- to late-50s A.D. (though the mid- or late-60s is also possible). Mark’s audience, largely unfamiliar with Jewish customs, needed to become familiar with such customs in order to understand the coming of Jesus as the culmination of God’s work with Israel and the entire world, so Mark explains them.
Purpose and Theme
The ultimate purpose and theme of Mark’s Gospel is to present and defend Jesus’ universal call to discipleship. Mark returns often to this theme, categorizing his main audience as either followers or opponents of Jesus. Mark presents and supports this call to discipleship by narrating the identity and teaching of Jesus. For Mark, discipleship is essentially a relationship with Jesus, not merely following a certain code of conduct. Fellowship with Jesus marks the heart of the disciple’s life, and this fellowship includes trusting Jesus, confessing him, observing his conduct, following his teaching, and being shaped by a relationship with him. Discipleship also means being prepared to face the kind of rejection that Jesus faced.
Key Themes
- Jesus seeks to correct messianic expectations and misunderstandings (1:25, 34, 44; 3:12; 4:10–12; 5:18–19, 43; 8:30; 9:9).
- Jesus is man (3:5; 4:38; 6:6; 7:34; 8:12, 33; 10:14; 11:12; 14:33–42).
- Jesus is the Son of God (1:11; 3:11; 5:7; 8:38; 9:7; 12:6–8; 13:32; 14:36, 61; 15:39).
- Jesus is the Son of Man with all power and authority (1:16–34; 2:3–12, 23–28; 3:11; 4:35–41; 6:45–52; 7:1–23; 10:1–12).
- Jesus as the Son of Man must suffer (8:31; 10:45; 14:21, 36).
- Jesus is Lord (2:28; 12:35–37; 14:62).
- Jesus calls his followers to imitate him in humble service, self-denial, and suffering (8:34–38; 9:35–37; 10:35–45).
- Jesus teaches on the kingdom of God, and implies that God continues to call a people to himself (compare 1:15; 9:1; 14:25; 15:43).
Outline
- Introduction (1:1–15)
- Demonstration of Jesus’ Authority (1:16–8:26)
- Testing Jesus’ Authority in Suffering (8:27–16:8)
- Journey to Jerusalem (8:27–10:52)
- Entering and judging Jerusalem (11:1–13:37)
- Death and resurrection in Jerusalem (14:1–16:8)
- “Longer ending of Mark” (16:9–20; see note)]
The Setting of Mark
The events in the book of Mark take place almost entirely within Palestine, from Caesarea Philippi in the north to Beersheba in the south. During this time Palestine was ruled by the Roman Empire. The book opens with Jesus’ baptism by John during the rule of Pontius Pilate and the tetrarchs Antipas and Philip. It closes with Jesus’ death and resurrection about three years later.
Listen to the Podcast
Listen NowDive Deeper | Mark 14-16
Hardships can lead us to ignore the truth. It is easy to lose sight of the big picture in life and focus only on the here and now. After a great day, one of my kiddos got upset and used a phrase that we have all said before, "This is the worst day ever!" My 5-year-old son reminded me of how easy it is to focus on the current moment and get lost in our emotions.
Think of the emotions of the followers of Christ in this section of Scripture. They believed that Jesus was who he said he was, the one true Son of God. They were ready for him to return as a conquering king and bring restoration. Instead, they were left to watch him die on the cross. Whose hope could be restored after this—seeing the man you believed was your savior be verified as dead? What were they to do with this hope they previously had in Christ?
But then, the greatest author of all time, God, interjected and changed the story. Jesus rose from the dead, and the women who came to his tomb that Sunday morning were left in a state of shock. An angel shared life-changing news. While the story looked over, God went beyond time and ensured that Jesus would be the conquering King.
We all experience pain and question hard things in this life. Whether it is a difficult job, cancer, death of a loved one, or just a hard day at work, let us look up and remember we serve a God who exceeded all expectations and conquered the grave. We can walk in confidence and joy despite our circumstances because of what he has done for us. Praise be to the author of our story!
This month's memory verse
"I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."
– John 15:5
Discussion Questions
1. What areas of your life consume your thoughts and lead you to doubt the Lord's authority in your life? Spend some time in prayer today, laying any sin before him.
2. Take some time today to look back at what our Savior experienced because of his love for you. What do you easily gloss over? Where do you need to spend time today being reminded of what God experienced for you?