This new work sets Mark as a "gospel" writer within the framework of contemporary history and also of theology. In it Mark appears as the Pauline theologian of the cross, setting the reality of the real manhood and passion of Jesus as a vivid background to the vindication of the Son of God as he came back in victory to re-gather his disciples. Just as Paul warded off the advances of the heretics by impassioned argument, so Mark, i the authentic apostolic succession, sets forth the living Lord who although "crucified in weakness" now "lives by the power of God."