The disciples are shocked by Jesus’ insistence that he will soon be dead. This leaves their dream of a renewed Israel in the dust. But, says Jesus, that’s where it should be for even the finest things of this world
Necessary suffering
Jesus is a mystery to many in Israel – a situation he’s had to encourage to handle false expectations. However, his disciples have come to see clearly that he is the Messiah, the Christ, the anointed king sent by God.