Why Did Jesus Say, - Don't Tell
Why Did Jesus Say, - Don't Tell
Why Did Jesus Say, - Don't Tell
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Why did Jesus tell the people he healed not to tell anyone?
This is a curious thing, isn’t it? Especially in light of the fact that Jesus has commissioned us
to make him known. We nd that on several occasions during his earthly ministry that Jesus
told the people whom he healed not to let anyone know about it.
This was not always the case, however. For instance, when Jesus delivered the Gerasene
demoniac from the power of Satan, and the man “begged that he might be with him… Jesus
sent him away, saying, ‘Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you’”
(Lk. 8:38-39). So here’s one time, at least, when Jesus told a man to tell everyone.
But on most other occasions he told people not to tell. In Matthew 9 we read about two blind
men whom Jesus healed. It says,
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and perform certain rituals (Lev. 14:1-32); but Jesus told him to tell no one else.
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We also nd that when Jesus raised the daughter of Jairus from the dead, her parents were
astonished, but he “strictly charged them that no one should know” about it (Mk. 5:43).
On still another occasion, when Jesus healed a man who was deaf and mute, he charged the
entire crowd to tell no one. “But the more he charged them,” it says, “the more zealously they
proclaimed it” (Mk. 7:36).
This was often the case. People couldn’t keep it quite, especially the ones who had been
healed. And you can understand their excitement, not to mention their gratitude! But why did
Jesus say that they should tell no one? I think we nd a clue in the account of the leper who
was cleansed. Even though he was told not to mention it to anyone, it says,
But he went out and began to talk freely about it, and
to spread the news, so that Jesus could no longer
openly enter a town, but was out in desolate places,
and people were coming to him from every quarter
(Mk. 1:45)
If his miracles were widely known they would attract so much attention and create so much
excitement that his movements would be inhibited. He “could no longer openly enter a town,
but was out in desolate places.” He could no longer move about as he wished. This was while
he was in the land of Israel, where he conducted almost all his earthly ministry. When he told
the Geresene demoniac to tell everyone about the miracle he received, it was in a land that
Jesus visited once, and then only very brie y. It would not hinder his movements there if
everyone knew about it because he was not planning to stay there.
I should also point out that there was undoubtedly a concern on Jesus’ part that people’s
attention would be distracted from what he regarded as a more important aspect of his
ministry than that of working miracles, namely the ministry of the word. He came as a prophet
and a teacher. But many would be attracted to Jesus only for the sake of the miracles he
performed. They would be attracted to him much like they would be attracted to a carnival
sideshow. They would not be interested in the truth he came to teach, but in having their
senses dazzled by seeing a miracle. They would be like Herod. When Jesus was on trial before
Herod, we’re told that Herod was very glad to see him, “because he had heard about him, and
he was hoping to see some sign done by him” (Lk. 23:8).
These are the main reasons why he told people not to tell. But the thing we should remember
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is that circumstances have changed and we should now do what Jesus told the Geresene
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demoniac. We should now declare to everyone how much God has done for us.
Anonymous said…
This was incrediably heplful thanks you so much and God Bless!
boyscout said…
Many are only interested in the healing process and have no interest in the
Word especially when repentance is the criterica - same then same now. It's
worse when most don't have healing power now and the faith becomes a joke
when preachers have to compromise the Word to gain listeners.
Phillip said…
I think you're right, but that doesn't explain this instance. Luke 4:41: Moreover,
demons came out of many people, shouting, “You are the Son of God!” But he
rebuked them and would not allow them to speak, because they knew he was
the Messiah.
Why would Jesus not want people to know he was the Messiah? As ironic as it
is, a demon was perhaps that most credible source to speak to the authenticity
of Jesus. Why then not let them speak and allow them to give proof?
There is a deeper reason. I think it has to do with Faith. It takes faith to please
God. If the people had hardcore evidence, they wouldn't need faith.
Karen said…
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Thank you for this explanation. I'd been wondering about this alot as I reread
through the Gospels right now. Have a wonderful day :)
joseph36 said…
Thank you so much for your explanation on this chapter compare with many
verses. it is very helpful to me since I am serving the Lord to unmature believers
in M
alaysia
July 3, 2012 at 8:42 PM
Richard said…
I often wondered why Jesus said, "...to tell no one". Thank you for helping with
understanding His reason for this.
October 30, 2012 at 9:48 PM
Unknown said…
I also believe that Jesus did not want it told because it was not yet his time to
be cruci ed and every time that Jesus did a miracle they said that he was
commuting a sin and they wanted to kill him, because the individuals that he
was healing when they ask them they say Jesus the messiah. They did not
consider Jesus to be their messiah.
Anonymous said…
I'm currently reading through Mark and I had this question over and over again.
Thank you so much for the answer. It makes so much sense now!
KEFTIN said…
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Anonymous said…
At that time healing and miracles were attributed by many to be the practices of
those who do magic. Jesus, in fact, was considered by some to be a magician,
and magic was one of the things prosecuted by the Romans. So one had to be
careful going around doing things like that. Another point is that Jesus'
teachings were more important for some of the people, but if it wasn't for his
miracles, not many would pay attention to him at all. And yes, most people did
address him only for the healing.
Very nice explanation. Thank you for revealing more things beyod my thought.
October 28, 2013 at 6:29 AM
Anonymous said…
I just experienced a personal revelation about this quote. Jesus said this to
keep us humble. By telling everyone, you become prideful as if you are more
special to God than others. This incites envy and jealousy. Love does not boast,
it is not proud. However, when the time is right, God will give you words and the
situation to share your experience with others.
Anonymous said…
Anonymous said…
All of the comments have a valid point of view...However. .We all know..even up
to thIs day...Most people are for gain...no matter how much is presented for
knowledge. ..Becoming a righteous person was the farthest thing
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from their minds when sickness..disabilities. or death was upon them or their
Pastor's Blog families. ..it was probably like a huge outdoor show. .
Unknown said…
The point of Jesus telling them not to tell, was for our bene t. Jesus, knew they
would tell. It wasn't that it would hinder His ministry, because they told it all the
same. The demon that He commanded to be silent about who He was is the
key, because the demon had no choice, but you and I are different, we have free
will. Jesus has the authority to command our bodies to be healed, command
the wind and seas, command the demons to obey, but not to command our
minds to follow Him. How many of us today, hear the voice of His word, but
choose not to obey? One would think that being next to the One, that brought
life back into me, healed me a leprosy, issue of blood, deformities, made the
blind see, the deaf hear, and the cripple walk, would be more apt to obey His
word, but because of free will it just isn't going to happen. You have to submit
the free will to accept Him and choose to follow. Obedience is a willful choice in
this life.
September 7, 2014 at 7:47 AM
JesusFreak said…
JesusFreak said…
Well said, Anthony. Amen and God bless!
JesusFreak said…
But isn't it also the hardcore evidence that increases our faith? I'm just saying...
JesusFreak said…
But Jesus knew they were still going to tell regardless of Him telling them not
to. I believe Jesus was being humble and did not want to be known only for His
miraculous acts. He also had pertinent things to say/teach during His ministry.
January 10, 2015 at 8:14 AM
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Anonymous said…
Pastor's Blog
I just read this today while googling the subject of Jesus not telling. Thank you
so much for your blog. I learned some really important lessons.
Anonymous said…
Unknown said…
I think the bottom line of many questions I've read in the post is about whether
or not the act of the people Jesus healed was "disobedience " or not. Jesus
gave a direct command despite why one thinks he did it...
Unknown said…
Contrast with Paul whose life mission was to travel the world and support the
churches. I wonder what Jesus would've thought of Paul? Although of course
Christians believe Jesus was God incarnate so He already knew Paul in
advance and what he was going to do. But assuming Jesus was Jesus the
man, the teacher, it seems His ministry was in this way much different from
Paul's. Why wasn't Paul more like Jesus?
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kjl said…
Pastor's Blog
Just googled this topic as I was reading Mark 5 this morning, and this was such
a helpful blog post and discussion! Thank you!
Unknown said…
Asked my pastor this last night after going through part of Luke 7. He had no
answer. After additional research I can pull him aside and offer some thoughts.
Thanks pastor.
sp4GarciaSmiley76t79 said…
Hello everyone, glad to see I am not the only one that noticed or had a question
about this passage of scripture and in lieu of all the input, thoughts, and ideas
we needed to ask the HolyGhost to give us the true meaning of why Jesus
commanded not to tell... "For a testimony unto them." May the Lord richly bless
you, in Jesus name Amen.
Anonymous said…
Hi all, I personally believe Jesus told them to not tell anyone because of great
compassion? What do I mean? I believe he wanted to limit the number of
Pharisees who would proceed to ascribe His miracles to the works of Satan. I
personally believe the Pharisees of Jesus's day are the ones who committed
the unforgiveable sin when they did this (Matt 9:34...and other verses too). He
obviously knew what type of response the Pharisees would have, and I believe
He wanted to save them from themselves. Think about the heart wrenching
plea of Jesus in John 10:37-38, where He asks them to at least believe the
works. This is just what I believe the Lord has told me about this subject. God
Bless.
April 12, 2016 at 1:53 PM
Anonymous said…
Jesus said don't tell anyone on severel ocasions but there was lots of people
around besides the little girls family or when the others were healed, they would
know it was Jesus who healed because they wer there, so even if the families
didn't spread the news some one would, guess it's just the fact of being
obedient and doing what the Lord tells us to do, even it w are told "don't tell"
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In Matthew 16:20 Jesus charged, warned His disciples not to tell anyone. The
Pharisees and the Sadducees were the trouble makers. They knew who Jesus
was, but because they had their own corrupt agendas they wouldn't want
anyone converted by Him. Jesus didn't want disturbance from them, He had
souls to save, He had to do the will of the Father. Jesus had to save people
from false teachings of the Pharisees. In Matthew 23 Jesus talks about their
carnal minds and attitudes.
Thank you so much! It con rmed what I thought. Jesus said that because
people would began to use him and because He loves us so much, He wouldn't
have turned anyone away. He blessed those He knew He could trust. God has a
reason for everything.
Unknown said…
I like your answer very much. I am blogging through the Gospel of Mark. If you
have time look at my last post about the man who had a legion of demons cast
out of him into the swine. jwright231.wordpress.com Your answer is very
helpful. Because of the way you answered this question I just wanted some of
your feedback thanks.
January 6, 2017 at 7:17 AM
Thank you so much for your explaination. It made me clear. God bless you,
brother.
January 10, 2017 at 10:59 PM
Anonymous said…
I never reply to comments but i have to say that your answer, sir, has to be
inspired by Holy Spirit, revelation of The word of God. I'm currently studying
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"free will". The Lord has led me to your post. My eyes have been opened, and
Pastor's Blog my understanding of His purpose for telling those people not to tell anyone is
so very clear. I didnt even think of free will until i read your post. I thank the
Lord! God bless you
philando said…
This subject always had me wondering, thanks and God bless you all!
Thank you so much for your post! This has helped me understand a question I
have had for some time! God bless!
Anonymous said…
Jesus said 'see that you tell no one' because anything born of noise and clatter
never last long,there is more power in silence,than noise.
But leave the announcement to God,what is done in secret will be revealed in
the open,you cannot hide a light under the bushel for long.
Anonymous said…
MATTHEW 12:15-12 Explains that the reason he ordered people he cured not to
tell was to ful ll what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah:
Anonymous said…
We are doing a study of Luke and I have been listening to all the scripture
before I read it. This struck me and prevented me from absorbing anything else.
Why would he tell them to tell no one, but just a few verses before he said go
and tell. I enjoyed your explanation and others comments as well. Two things
that I do know from scripture that is consistent. Jesus knew people's hearts
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and Jesus saught the will of his Father. Either he knew how it would be used
Pastor's Blog (pride, distraction form his true purpose), or it was not the Father's will for some
reason. God see's both the forest and the trees. Thanks for posting this. I think I
am ready to re-listen to the scriptures again.
Lorrie L. said…
Thank you, this has helped me better understand. May God bless you.
Anonymous said…
Thank you so much, after reading your explanation, it makes perfect sense.
September 26, 2017 at 3:17 AM
Anonymous said…
I am glad to know that I am not the only one who had some questions
concerning this scripture text. I read some really good responses. In my
opinion, I believe that Jesus never wanted to draw attention to Himself.
Everything He did and wanted us to do was to give all the Glory to God.
Anonymous said…
Thanks, everyone! I just pro ted from almost 7 years of discussion -- all great
contributions! My Disqus handle is "USA 241, and many more!"
Unknown said…
I can understand why folks come to this conclusion. However, I do not believe
this to be the reason.
Anonymous said…
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Sometimes there are sacred experiences and gifts that God gives just to us,
Pastor's Blog and sometimes we should tell others of those experiences and sometimes we
shouldn't. We should follow the guidance of the Holy Ghost and share on a case
by case basis. Sometimes there is someone who is experiencing a trial and
God is using that trial to help them grow closer to Him. In such a case them
knowing that God removed that same trial from us might not increase their
faith in Him.
April 14, 2018 at 11:27 PM
Trey said…
Didnt Jesus mostly tell Jews not to tell and Gentiles he allowed to speak freely?
This would allow Him more time make disciples before going to the cross.
Anonymous said…
I don't think the blog answer to this question rings true. Jesus Christ is the only
begotten Son of God granted all authority. Jesus Himself says this. All authority
means the power of God through God's Holy Spirit. This is why Jesus could do
all these miracles and forgive sins. If that's the case, I certainly don't think
Jesus wanted to keep His miracles a secret because crowds would get in his
way and prevent Him from doing His ministry. This is evidenced by the fact that
people disobeyed Jesus and told many others anyway about his miracles and
crowds always swarmed Jesus. Besides, Jesus Christ is the most quali ed
evangelizer to ever walk the earth and one would think that He would want all
crowds to come to Him so they can be given the Word and converted... after all
if Jesus can't convert them then no one could. So the bottom line is I think there
is another reason. Jesus knew everything before it happened. He knows about
our little debate here. I don't have the exact answer but I think He didn't tell
people to help us, the future readers of the Word, to be curious and to dig in to
nd out why. I think a clue can be found in John 6. When Jesus asks Peter who
do you say that I am and Peter answers accurately. Jesus tells him that no man
told him, but the information came from God. This is how we recognize true
followers of Jesus. They recognize truth when it is presented. Whether it's
Jesus standing in front of them or the Word expressed to them. I don't know if
this is the exact reason but I think there is something there. Sorry for the long
post but this is really a deep question.
Anonymous said…
This is a great discussion! Jesus used healing as a “dinner bell” for His Gospel
of Good News. Yes, the target was the preaching and ushering in the New
Covenant of Grace, so God could get His people back from bondage, and we
could have perfect fellowship and perfect peace with Him. All this was done by
the forgiveness of our sins as a foundation to be righteous before God. Our sin
traded for His righteousness. So...if Jesus used healing as a trumpet for His
Gospel, then it is NOT just showmanship, as it is referred to here in a few posts.
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Do we think that the circus that insued from Jesus’ miracles surprised Him? Me
Pastor's Blog thinks not. His actions changed the world! He also said WE would do those
things, and greater! (John 14:12-14) Hey, God said that, so we can’t disregard it.
So aren’t we supposed to keep changing the world, or just relegate all that to
the apostles who are long passed on to Glory? Again, if Jesus used healing and
deliverance miracles as the proof that God loves us, wants us well (hint: Jesus
NEVER turned ANYONE down for healing) and wants fellowship with us through
repentance and forgiveness of sins, then who are we to devise an alternative
mode of operation. Are you saved by what Christ did on the Cross? Do you -
BELIEVE-? Then read Mark 16:17-18, where it says that those signs will
accompany those who believe, and to, In Jesus Name, (by His authority
because you are saved and have His righteousness), “drive out demons, speak
with new tongues, PLACE HANDS ON THE SICK AND THEY WILL GET WELL! It’s
in there! Don’t rip that page out! If it creates a circus, then GREAT! Preach the
Gospel!!! People think God is mad at them. Use your God given authority and
ability to cause a ruckus, show people that God is NOT mad, is at peace with
them,(Luke 2:14) and get them saved and into Gods Kingdom!
Just do it in love!
July 23, 2018 at 9:54 PM
David said…
I understand the interpretation given here .... and I think that was part of the
reason but I think there was a deeper more important spiritual reason he said
"dont' tell". Jesus actually explained very clearly and explicitly why he says not
to tell anyone after he has done a good deed and healed someone or revived
them.
Jesus was applying this very law to the good deeds he did for others. He was
not "self seeking" and instead deliberately avoiding drawing attention to his
good deeds or praise and honour for his good deeds. He only ever told people
to thank god for what they received and he told only those who were necessary
to tell and did not request thanks or payment for any of his works.
savit said…
SO lets say I could not speak ,Jesus healed me and I spoke but he said tell
know one , so how would you explain it to your mother? interesting situation.....
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Thank you so much for the information.... Pastor...And this is what I got now
days all the people who making miracle are shouting or exampling themself
has a honor for there work... They are not praise God how really made miracle...
In the above scripture Jesus doesn't want to popular for the miracle... He want
to tell about heavenly kingdom....
Katura H. said…
Seeker said…
Third attempt at a condensed response to this wonderful discussion on a
subject that has always puzzled me.
I wonder if one of the things that was hard for Jesus in His preaching, as a
humble man who never sinned by pride in His accomplishments was to put up
with the adulation He knew was coming from human attraction? It can't be
helped that we just fall in love with attractive powerful people who are kind to
us. Brotherly love is a gift from God, too, but it's not enough, is it. No matter
how hard we try to obey, we don't know all the answers or how to "do it right,"
and get it wrong, and thus, disobey even if we have a personal miracle, we want
to shout it out. I was told don't do that because people will think you are crazy,
which is true, people do react to extreme testimonies because they aren't "cool."
Unknown said…
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David, Richmond, VA
March 1, 2019 at 5:03 PM
Mandy said…
Though this was written a while ago,I think it's amazing how God brought me to
it. This is something that always puzzled me but today, I really wanted to
understand why.God bless for your ministry. The Word being the purpose of this
message, thank you for helping us understand it.
Unknown said…
Thank you to the pastor and all the commenters. Very new to the Word here
and this has been very helpful.
Unknown said…
IamPastorChris said…
This comment has been removed by the author.
IamPastorChris said…
Jesus knew the Jews would kill him before the time designated by the Father.
This is why he continued to ee after he healed. But Legion was a gentile. The
people there would not have taken him as breaking the law, the Sabbath or any
such thing as the Pharisees and Saducees.
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