{And he called unto him the multitude with his disciples}
(kai proskalesamenos ton ochlon sun tois math(8874)ais autou). Mark
alone notes the unexpected presence of a crowd up here near
Caesarea Philippi in heathen territory. In the presence of this
crowd Jesus explains his philosophy of life and death which is in
direct contrast with that offered by Peter and evidently shared
by the disciples and the people. So Jesus gives this profound
view of life and death to them all. {Deny himself} (aparn(8873)asth(930a)heauton). Say no to himself, a difficult thing to do. Note
reflexive along with the middle voice. Ingressive first aorist
imperative. See on 烘t 16:24| about taking up the Cross. The
shadow of Christ's Cross was already on him ( Mr 8:31 ) and one
faces everyone.