The significance of Mark 3:20-end for understanding the message of Mark’s gospel

This article argues that Mark 3:20-35 is important for an understanding of Mark’s apparently enigmatic ending and his overall purpose. This is the first passage in which Jesus alludes to his arrest and confronts the authorities who will engineer his crucifixion. Mark powerfully draws the readers’ attention to the passage both by his narrative technique and in the passage’s content. The article also shows however, that the significance of the passage is lost by most commentators because they assume, in the parable of the Strong One, that Satan / Beelzebul should be identified as the Strong One and that he has already been bound by Jesus. In this they follow Luke’s reinterpretation of Mark’s material. Compelling evidence is presented however, that here the Strong One is Jesus and that the binding of the Strong One refers to his passion. The passage is also seen to cast significant light on Mark’s understanding of the phrase Son of Man and his unique use of ‘Sons of Men’ to describe Jesus’ followers. Mark’s Gospel is seen to have enduring resonance particularly with those who face persecution.