The Role of the Cross in the Composition of the Markan Crucifixion Narrative

For many NT scholars, the present realities of early Christian communities
were the determinative force in the composition of the narratives
of Jesus’ ministry and death. Though this is the case in some examples,
this article will challenge that it is not the case in every instance.
Specifically, this study will argue that the determinative force in the
production of the Markan crucifixion narrative was the violent past
reality of Jesus’ death.