WHO

Mark’s Gospel was written for Romans, a world driven by speed, power, productivity, and spectacle. In many ways, it’s written for us. Mark moves fast. He shows us Jesus more than he explains Him. From the opening line, he tells us exactly who Jesus is, then invites us to watch closely and decide for ourselves.

But beneath the urgency is something deeper. Mark keeps drawing our attention to how people respond to Jesus. Some follow. Some resist. Some are amazed but confused. Even the disciples struggle to understand what kind of Messiah He really is, mirroring our own questions, assumptions, and half-formed faith.

Repeatedly, Jesus defies expectations. He refuses power as the world defines it. His authority looks like compassion. His strength shows up in service. His kingship is revealed not through domination, but through surrender, suffering, and ultimately giving His life for many.

At the center of the story, Jesus forces the question into the open: Who do you say that I am? And at the end, Mark leaves us standing with the women at the empty tomb, stunned, silent, unsure what comes next.

It’s not an unfinished ending. It’s an invitation. If Jesus really is who He says He is, how will we respond? 

- The Downtown Hope Theology Team