This Sunday we return to our study of the Gospel of Mark, picking up in chapter 15. Chapter 15 begins after the events of the Last Supper, the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus’ arrest, and the nighttime trial before the religious leaders, who pronounce Jesus guilty of blasphemy and worthy of death. Having just celebrated Easter, we now turn our eyes to the dark yet glorious events of Good Friday, when the true King of the Jews willingly gives His life as a ransom for many. Though Mark has not referred to Jesus as "King" in his gospel before, in chapter 15 Jesus is mockingly called “King” six times. To the political and religious world, He looks nothing like a powerful ruler. He is beaten, silent, condemned, and humiliated, yet Jesus stands in perfect obedience to the Father’s will—not as a helpless victim, but as the sovereign King who chooses to endure suffering and condemnation in His people’s place.