Mary Ann Tolbert sets this week's text in its larger context: In good rhetorical fashion, the last two Passion prediction units (9:30--10:31 and 10:32-52) reiterate and expand this depiction of the disciples by constantly contrasting their actions and words with Jesus' teachings.1

We observe that following Jesus' second "passion/resurrection" prediction it is noted that the disciples did not understand; they were afraid to ask (Mark 9:32). In the next verses the disciples are thinking about glory even while Jesus seeks to teach them about the cross. Their concern is only with themselves. "Who among us is the greatest?" is the best they can do after hearing Jesus' second "passion/resurrection" prediction (Mark 9:33-34). Today's text picks up at this point. The disciples have heard Jesus sa…