Mark 10:45b is not a full dogmatic treatment of the atoning merit of Jesus’ death. It is true, however, that Jesus would not be able to call his dying a ransom if there was no divine demand on the many
because of guilt. There is a creditor who is willing to deal with this guilt in the way of righteousness and compensation, be it by Someone on behalf of the many
.
Deliverance through ransom means that the matter is dealt with righteously. Satan would not let a prey go free for a ransom; God does deliver a guilty person when satisfaction has been made with respect to his demand and punishment. The idea in Mark 10:45 must therefore be that the ransom is paid to God (this is also in line with Mark 10:38: God gives the cup that Jesus must drink). The life of the promised son of Adam (Genesis 3:15) comes as a ransom for Adam and the many sons who were guilty unto death
(Genesis 2:17).1
45 Car le Fils de l'homme est venu, non pour être servi, mais pour servir et donner sa vie comme la rançon de beaucoup.