Mark 15:21

They compel (aggareuousin). Dramatic present indicative again where Matthew 27:32 has the aorist. For this Persian word see on Matthew 5:41 ; Matthew 27:32 . Coming out of the country (ercomenon ap agrou). Hence Simon met the procession. Mark adds that he was "the father of Alexander and Rufus." Paul mentions a Rufus in Romans 16:13 , but it was a common name and proves nothing. See on "Mt 27:32" for"discussion of cross-bearing by criminals. Luke adds "after Jesus" (opisqen tou Ihsou). But Jesus bore his own cross till he was relieved of it, and he walked in front of his own cross for the rest of the way.