14:1–2 These verses introduce the events of the arrest, trial, and execution of Jesus and resemble previous indications of hostile intentions against Jesus (cf. 3:6; 12:12). Although previously the Pharisees are frequently mentioned as criticizing and opposing Jesus (e.g., 2:16–3:6; 7:1–5; 8:11; 10:1–2; 12:13), they are not linked by name with the actual arrest and execution in Mark (cf. Matt. 27:62; John 18:3). Instead, it is the priests and scribes who are mentioned here. The material in 14:1–15:47 is called by scholars the passion account (“passion” coming from the Greek word for “suffering”). Mark has been described as a passion account with an extensive introduction, and though this is a bit of an exaggeration, it is correct to note the crucial place this part of the Gospel occupies i…