Mark 3:12

And he straitly charged them that they should not make him known.

And {G2532} he straitly {G4183} charged {G2008} them {G846} that {G3363} they should {G4160} not {G3363} make {G4160} him {G846} known {G5318}.

But he warned them strictly not to make him known.

But He warned them sternly not to make Him known.

And he charged them much that they should not make him known.

Commentary

Mark 3:12 (KJV) states, "And he straitly charged them that they should not make him known." This verse captures a significant aspect of Jesus' early ministry, often referred to as the "Messianic Secret" in the Gospel of Mark.

Context

This command from Jesus occurs immediately after the unclean spirits recognize Him and cry out, "Thou art the Son of God" (Mark 3:11). Jesus has been performing numerous miracles, healing the sick and casting out demons, drawing immense crowds from all over Galilee and beyond (Mark 3:7-8). His growing popularity and the public recognition of His divine power necessitated a careful management of His identity and mission.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Messianic Secret: A prominent theme in Mark, Jesus frequently silences those who recognize Him, whether demons, healed individuals, or even His disciples. This was not due to a lack of power, but a strategic decision to control the timing and nature of His revelation as the Messiah. One reason for this was to prevent a premature or misunderstood declaration of His messiahship, particularly one that might incite political rebellion against Roman rule, as many expected a conquering king.
  • Divine Authority: Even the unclean spirits recognized Jesus' true identity and and authority. His command to silence them further demonstrates His power over these spiritual forces.
  • The Nature of His Kingdom: Jesus' kingdom was spiritual, not political or military. He aimed to avoid being labeled as a mere earthly revolutionary. His mission was to bring salvation through His suffering, death, and resurrection, a truth that could not be fully grasped or proclaimed until after these events. This aligns with statements about His kingdom not being of this world.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "straitly charged" translates the Greek word epitimaล (แผฯ€ฮนฯ„ฮนฮผฮฌฯ‰). This term is strong and authoritative, meaning "to rebuke," "to warn," or "to strictly command." It is often used elsewhere in the Gospels when Jesus rebukes demons, diseases, or even the wind and sea (Mark 4:39). It signifies a forceful injunction, not a gentle suggestion, underscoring the urgency and importance of His command for silence.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us of the importance of God's perfect timing. Just as Jesus controlled the timing of His public revelation, so too does God orchestrate events in our lives according to His divine plan. It also challenges us to consider the true nature of Jesus' mission. His primary goal was not earthly acclaim or political power, but spiritual redemption. Our understanding and proclamation of Christ should reflect His true identity as the suffering servant who became the victorious King, rather than focusing on superficial or self-serving interpretations. We are called to share the Gospel in a way that accurately represents the message of Christ crucified, not just His miracles.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Matthew 12:16

    And charged them that they should not make him known:

  • Mark 1:25

    And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him.

  • Mark 1:34

    And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.

  • Matthew 8:4

    And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

  • Acts 16:18

    And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.
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