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S. Michael Houdmann
Supporter
The Messianic Secret is a theme of biblical criticism developed in 1901 by a German Lutheran theologian named Wilhelm Wrede. The Messianic Secret involves Wrede's explanation for Jesus wanting to h...
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Shirley H.
Supporter
Early in Jesus' ministry, He was not prepared to reveal His identity. In Mark chapter 1, we have two instances of Jesus saying, "Quiet! Do not speak of this." Verses 21-28 We have the cure of the demoniac in the synagogue in Capernaum. The unclean spirit was commanded to be silent at the recognition of Jesus. Mark 1:29-34, Simon's mother -in -law is cured and others who were sick were brought to Jesus. Some were possessed by devils. Jesus would not allow them to speak, either! In Mark 1:40-45 Jesus cures a man suffering with a skin condition. Jesus helps him and bids him to tell no one. Jesus needed more time to work before He proclaimed His identity. He denies Jesus' request and Jesus becomes plagued by swarms of people. In Mark chapter 3:7-12, Jesus and His disciples withdrew from the crowds. Many however, followed them. He had cured so many, He needed to leave to avoid being hurt by the crowds. Unclean spirits would fall down and shout at Him, "You are The Son of God!" Jesus warned them not to reveal His secret. Again if we look at Acts chapter 1:7, "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power." It sounds like Jesus knows more than He is telling. God reveals things in His time. Deuteronomy 29:29, "The secret things belong unto the Lord Our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, That we may do all the words of this law." Obviously God keeps secrets. I am sure Jesus did too. I believe this is the Messianic secret. Jesus was not ready to say straight out, "l Am!"
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