The Gospel of Mark presents the life of Jesus (a biography) as a life destined for death and the life of discipleship corresponding to a life destined for daily crucifixion. A suffering Messiah paves the way for suffering discipleship. The disciples in the Gospels are presented as excited and expectant, clueless and learning, surprised and shocked, but don't perceive the reality of the true Messiahship until the cross.
In this Everyday Bible Study series, McKnight also offers some historical context; connects the passage to the larger story of the Bible; provides an illustration, a metaphor, or an image that brings the passage alive; and provides questions for reflection and application for further study or discussion. The series is suitable for group study, personal study, or daily reading.