As Mark continues his gospel, Jesus offers his third and final prediction about his death to his disciples. They again, do not understand. Instead, James and John come to Jesus and request prominent positions in the kingdom. Jesus once again disciples his followers, instructing them on the true path to greatness - service. Service is not quoting mantras or touting the catch phrase "servant leadership." It is instead actually willingly serving all, no matter how menial the task, no matter how beneath you it may seem. Willing service and sacrifice for the good others demonstrates the kind of service Jesus himself came to give. Jesus informs his disciples that he will give his life as a ransom (payment in their place) for many and this demonstrates his committed service for all. As believers, we must guard against self-promotion and ambition and instead be committed to humble service.
The gospel of Mark focuses on the gospel of Jesus, who is the Son of God. Jesus is the Christ, the promised one from God. Mark refers to Jesus as the Son of Man, emphasizing his humanity and the Son of God which emphasizes his deity. The influence of Peter or the teaching of Peter is the foundation of the gospel of Mark. Mark writes to explain Jesus to unbelievers and to call believers to know him and live like him. Mark emphasizes Jesus as a servant, a quality believers should emulate. Mark also emphasizes the discipleship of Jesus. Jesus discipled his followers. Mark hopes to demonstrate the good news (gospel) of Jesus to the world, because he is the Son of God.
