In Mark's Gospel account, we see the surprising reality of Jesus' messianic rule. He was not the leader the people were expecting. The book details how the religious authorities, the crowds of people, and even Jesus' own disciples questioned his identity and authority as the son of God. The people had hoped that the Messiah would overthrow the Roman government and rule their earthly kingdom, but Mark makes clear that he came instead as a servant to usher in God's heavenly Kingdom on earth.