The term for they took offense
(ἐσκανδαλίζοντο) denotes something being a stumbling block. In the present context of this passage Jesus is a stumbling block to the people as they are repelled by him.1 Interestingly, in various places in the Gospel of Mark this term is utilized to denote stumbling blocks that prevent people from coming to the faith and therefore they fall away (see Mark 4:17, Mark 9:42–47, Mark 14:27–29).
Now, the first three questions regarding the origins of Jesus’ wisdom and power could be seen in a positive light as they only seem to deal with his work and power. However, these questions are subverted by the next question concerning their knowledge of his lowly origin and connection with his family in the town that he lived. They could not see how Jesus could be more than the local boy and craftsman.2 These latter questions serve as the probable origin of their taking offense at Jesus. The people appear shocked that Jesus, a carpenter and someone from their town, is now teaching them and claiming to be God’s King (Mark 1:15). They are jealous of his ability, just like people are often jealous when a person from their own town or family becomes famous and they do not. They are also so familiar with him that they are unwilling to listen to his words or take him seriously. To them, he is just a carpenter and he is being selfish and arrogant by thinking he can be more than a carpenter.
The sudden switch in disposition over against Jesus is not surprising since later in Mark there is a similar switch from the people shouting Hosanna
on Palm Sunday to the eventual shouting of Crucify him
on Good Friday not shortly thereafter.3
3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.