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 to today’s study, namely, the shame associated with crucifixion in Roman culture and the shocking humility of Jesus.

Also, as you interpret this chapter, it will be helpful to remember that the video on this book’s historical background (viewed on Day 5 of this study) identified the church in Rome as the original readers of Mark’s gospel.

Observation

The first question Pilate asks Jesus is this: “Are you the King of the Jews?” (Mark 15:2). In this chapter, highlight when this title for Jesus 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 describing 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’ own words about his kingdom from Mark 10:35-45. How does this chapter illustrate what he said back then?

Finally, Mark’s many allusions to the Old Testament demonstrate to readers that the crucifixion was not an accident. It had been foretold by the Scriptures. It was how God himself planned to provide atonement for the sins of the world. It was the means by which humanity’s access to God (lost in Eden, Genesis 3) was now restored.

Application

John’s gospel speaks of the cross as the hour in which the glory of God is most fully revealed (see John 12:23). Shockingly, it reveals the God of the Bible as a God of humility, self-sacrifice, and pursuing love.

As you prepare for Easter, consider your perspective of the character of God. Do you view him primarily as:

• a God of judgment, angry with you and with the world for falling short of his righteous standard?
• a God of mercy, willing to sacrifice himself in order to bring you back into right relationship with him?