9:14–29 Perhaps the first thing to ask about this story is why it is placed here in Mark’s narrative. The answer to this question lies in the observation made earlier that virtually the whole of 8:27–10:52 is concerned with the two themes of the coming suffering of Jesus and the nature of discipleship. This is why the disciples are so prominent in the story; they are arguing with scribes in 9:14–15, are pictured as unable to cope with the demon-possessed boy in 9:18, and are instructed as to the cause of their failure in 9:28–29. This is not just another miracle story or another example of Jesus’ power over demons; it is also intended to instruct Mark’s readers (the church) about their task of continuing the work of Jesus.

More specifically, this story immediately follows the mountaintop …