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The King of the Jews (Mark 15:1-47)
It was nine in the morning when they crucified him.The written notice of the charge against him read: the king of the jews. Mark 15:25-26 (NIV)
Context:
The video (below) was originally produced for a study on the book of Philippians. However, it addresses topics relevant for today’s study: namely, on the shame associated with crucifixion in Roman culture; and on the shocking humility of Jesus.
Also, as you interpret this chapter, it will be helpful to remember that the historical background video on Mark (viewed on Day 1 and reviewed on Day 20) identified the church in Rome as the book’s original readers.
Observation:
When Pilate examines Jesus, the first question he asks Jesus is: “Are you the King of the Jews?” (Mark 15:2). In this chapter, highlight every time this title is used.
As well, this chapter includes many allusions to the Old Testament, which would be noticed by readers who were familiar with the Hebrew Scriptures. See chart below:
Interpretation:
Mark’s Roman readers were well aware of the shame associated with crucifixion. In their culture, to follow a crucified man would have been unthinkable! They probably struggled with embarrassment regarding this aspect of the gospel of Jesus. And yet, in the context of reporting the crucifixion, Mark reminds readers again and again that the crucified Jesus is their “King.”
- How is Mark re-shaping the reader’s cultural understanding of leadership and shame?
- Additionally, recall Jesus’s own words about his kingdom from Mark 10:35-45. How is this chapter a living example of what he said back then?
Finally, Mark’s many allusions to the Old Testament demonstrates for readers that the crucifixion was not an accident. It had been foretold by the Scriptures. It was the way that God himself had planned to provide atonement for the sins of the world. It was the means by which humanity’s access to God (which had been lost in Eden in Genesis 3) was now restored.
Application:
What aspects of your culture could cause you to feel shame for being associated with Jesus and the cross?
King Jesus came to serve by giving his life as the cost for setting many people free. How does the rule of King Jesus compare with every other king this world has known? What response do you want to make to him?
About this Plan
This plan is intended as a guide to help you discover the message of Mark’s Gospel for yourself! Grab a notebook to jot down your thoughts as you are led through a process of: (1) observing the Gospel of Mark; (2) interpreting the original message to the church in Rome; and (3) applying the Gospel’s timeless truths to your life today.
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