Interpretation Questions:

1. Christian theology tries to define “atonement,” which explains how and why Christ’s death saves. Mark does not provide a doctrine of the atonement directly. Are there any indirect ideas about atonement in Mark’s Gospel?
2. Where does Mark use irony throughout the Gospel? To what effect?
3. Neither Peter nor Judas stand by Jesus when he meets his end. Why do we judge Judas so much more harshly?

Application Questions:

1. At the foot of the cross, the Centurion is converted. He cries, “‘Truly this man was God’s Son!'” (15:39b). What moments, extreme or mundane, have you had in your life that have helped you believe in Jesus?
2. Scholars draw a connection between Psalm 22 and Mark’s narration of Jesus’ death. Does this change your understanding of Jesus’ last words in Mark’s Gospel?