Originally Posted by Stephen

I am currently preaching through Mark's account of the gospel. I believe that Isaiah provides the key to understanding Mark. Jesus is the suffering servant who came to give His life as an atonement for the sins of many (Isaiah 53). Mark 10:45 is the key verse that identifies the purpose for which Mark wrote. In the context the apostles were arguing among themselves as to who would sit next to Christ in the new heavens and earth. We are called to follow the example of Christ in showing humility and not serving as lords but servants. The "many" is the object of that ransom. It clearly shows as does Isaiah that Christ will not redeem the entire world but many; the elect. Mark clearly shows in his account of the gospel that Jesus is the suffering servant who entered the wilderness to lead a new exodus.