Understanding the Messianic Secret: The Strategic Silence of Jesus (03/02/'24) >Messag

Exploring the Mystery Behind Jesus' Silence Hey friends! I've been diving deep into an intriguing aspect of Jesus' life - why He instructed His disciples to keep His identity as the Messiah a secret. This concept, often called the "Messianic Secret," is not just a historical curiosity but a profound element of His mission. Let me share some insights: Avoiding Misunderstandings: Jesus wanted to steer clear of any confusion about His role. He wasn't here to be a political leader but to fulfill a spiritual mission - saving humanity from sin and establishing a Kingdom not of this world. Controlling His Mission: By keeping His identity under wraps, Jesus could ensure His teachings and actions unfolded according to God's timing, leading up to His crucifixion and resurrection without unnecessary interference. Fulfilling Prophecies: Every step Jesus took was in alignment with the scriptures. His strategic revelation of His identity ensured that He lived out the prophecies about the Messiah to the letter. Preparing His Followers: This period of secrecy was crucial for His disciples. It helped them grasp the true essence of His mission and kingdom, setting the stage for understanding the significance of His death and resurrection. Highlighting the Divine Mystery: Lastly, this approach underscores the profound mystery of Jesus - fully human and fully divine. His mission was to reveal this truth gradually, culminating in the ultimate revelation of His love through the cross and the empty tomb. I find it fascinating how Jesus' strategic silence was not just about keeping a secret but was a vital part of His mission to bring salvation to the world. It makes you appreciate the depth and wisdom of His actions on a whole new level. Would love to hear your thoughts on this! Pastor Steven G. Lee (March 2, 2024)