THE MARKAN SECRET

One characteristic of the miracle accounts in Mark's Gospel has been called the Markan (or Messianic) Secret. Strangely, Jesus over and over again seems to want the word of his miraculous acts not to spread among the people. Sometimes he carries out healing miracles away from the crowds, and then there are the following instances: 

            Demons proclaiming Christ are silenced (1:23-25,34; 3:11-12)

            Those healed are warned not to tell anyone (1:43-44; 5:43; 7:36)

            Disciples are cautioned not to reveal Jesus' true identity (8:30; 9:9)

Possible reasons for Jesus' reticence have been suggested :

        1.“The more he commanded them, all the more greatly did they spread the word.” (Mark 7:36)

Because of this passage, some feel that Jesus was just practicing of reverse psychology. This seems like too devious a motive for Jesus to use.

        2. To delay, or ensure, opposition from the Jewish leaders.  I have actually read both contradictory explanations in commentaries.

        3. So that his teaching ministry would not be hindered. Thus, “Jesus could no longer go into a town openly.” (Mark 1:45)

        4. To prevent a Jewish revolt against the Romans from starting.

This last explanation appears to best explain the one time Jesus actually encouraged one healed to spread the word.  Jesus said to the Gerasene demoniac: “Go home to your friends, and tell them how much the Lord has done for you.” (Mark 5:19)

It is telling that only in this one time when Jesus after a miracle does tell someone to spread the news, that it occurred in Gentile territory where there was no danger of a Jewish revolt starting.