The Gospel according to Mark has often been referred to as a Passion narrative with an extended introduction. In other words, it is a book about the suffering of Jesus. All that comes before the cross is preparing the reader for the fact that Jesus cannot be understood apart from the cross. Mark also wants those who might listen to his account of Jesus to understand that if Jesus had to suffer for the salvation of His people, those who would belong to Jesus should expect to suffer as they follow Him. Our hope is that as we study the work and words of Jesus in the Gospel According to Mark God will grant us to clearly see who He is and what it means to truly follow Him.
