In the following passage (Mark 6:14–30) we read about the cruel death of John the Baptist by the command of Herod. At first glance it may seem like an independent narrative that has nothing in common with the previous one. However, right at the end of this gloomy passage, Mark returns to the mission of the Twelve: “The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught” (Mark 6:30).
Why did Mark include the narrative of the death of John the Baptist in the narrative of the mission of the Twelve? It is suggested that Mark’s inclusion of this narrative directs the reader’s attention to the important cost of discipleship.1 First, we read about the hostile reception of Jesus in Nazareth (Mark 6:1–6). Then Mark states Christ’s instruction to the Twelve and his warning that there will be people who will not listen and receive them (Mark 6:11). After this, the execution of John the Baptist gives us an indication of the hostile treatment a disciple of Christ may expect from this world. With the insertion of the narrative of John the Baptist’s death, Mark demonstrates that the calling of a disciple of Christ entails much more than a mission of restoration and deliverance—it also entails conflict with the kingdoms of this world.2 The ultimate example of rejection is to be found in Christ’s suffering and death. The rejection of Jesus in Nazareth, the warning of rejection to the disciples, and the fate of John the Baptist all points to Christ’s ultimate suffering.3
14 King Herod heard of it, for Jesus’ name had become known. Some said, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. That is why these miraculous powers are at work in him.”