What to read after Jesus Teaches About Relationships: The Gospel of Mark Chapters 9 - 16?

As the lessons Jesus taught progressed, it became evident, God also required a close relationship with Jesus' followers. Then it became evident relationships are a key factor in God's plan of salvation. Without relationships God's plan is lost. 

Jesus also mixed in lessons showing His disciples how to understand scripture. Lessons the disciples failed to learn. Complete misunderstanding of scripture, combined with the lack of a genuine relationship with Jesus teaches a vital lesson about God's plan of salvation. The lack of support at the cross is meant to teach us lessons to properly equip us as disciples for these last days. Once Jesus' disciples realized what they had missed, the Spirit was able to effectively equip them for the task ahead. The same remains true today. Until you achieve an authentic relationship with Christ and His Spirit, you will never understand the deeper meaning of scripture, or be an effective worker in His vineyard.