Commentary on Matthew 12:16

Verse: "And charged them that they should not make him known." (Matthew 12:16)

Introduction

This verse comes in the context of Jesus’ ministry where He performs miracles and teaches with authority. The command not to make Him known may seem perplexing, yet it invites deeper exploration into Jesus’ messianic identity and the nature of His mission.

Contextual Analysis

In the preceding verses, Jesus had just healed a man with a withered hand, showcasing His lordship over the Sabbath (Matthew 12:9-14). The Pharisees conspire to destroy Him in their frustration and hostility towards His activities. Thus, Jesus' order to keep His identity concealed can be interpreted as a response to the hostility around Him.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Henry comments on the importance of Jesus' miracles bearing witness to His divine nature and the fulfillment of prophecy. He notes that by asking them to keep His identity hidden, Jesus was not diminishing His power but rather preserving the sanctity of His mission. Jesus understood that premature acknowledgment by the crowds could provoke tensions with the religious leaders and hinder His work.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Barnes emphasizes that the concealment of Jesus' identity was strategic. According to him, there was a divine timing to all things in Christ’s ministry. He points to the ongoing fulfillment of prophecy, referring to Isaiah's words about the Messiah being a "bruised reed" and "smoking flax" (Matthew 12:20). This alludes to Jesus' compassion over the tender-hearted and His refusal to engage in public fervor that could distract from His mission.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Clarke expands on the implications of Christ's command for contemporary followers. He asserts that while Jesus performed miracles, He sought to prevent a misplaced zeal directed towards Him. Clarke also discusses the human tendency to idolize charismatic figures, suggesting that Jesus aimed to direct focus away from Himself to the broader message of salvation and grace.

Theological Implications

• The Nature of Messianic Revelation:

  The command to remain silent about His identity speaks to the unfolding nature of God's revelation through Christ. Each act of healing and teaching was a part of a larger narrative that would culminate in the Cross and Resurrection.

• The Role of Humility:

  Jesus exemplifies humility and the importance of divine timing. His avoidance of self-promotion is a model for believers who may be tempted to seek fame or recognition over authentic ministry.

• Response to Opposition:

  This verse also illustrates Jesus’ awareness of opposition. Instead of escalating conflict, He chooses a path of restraint, demonstrating wisdom in dealing with hostility.

• Fulfillment of Prophecy:

  The directive to silence resonates with the nature of Jesus' ministry as rooted in the fulfillment of prophetic scripture. This reflects Jesus as the Messiah whose arrival and mission were foretold but not yet fully grasped by those around Him.

Practical Applications for Pastors and Students

• Understanding Timing in Ministry:

  Pastors and ministers should recognize the importance of divine timing in their work. Following Christ’s example, they might seek wisdom in when to speak and when to act.

• Promoting Humility:

  {value of humility and servant leadership is accentuated by Christ’s approach. It serves as a call to lead with grace, allowing God to uplift rather than striving for personal glory.

• Communicating the Message of Jesus:

  Christ’s intent was not to conceal His identity completely but to communicate His message authentically. Similarly, churches should focus on spreading the gospel rather than becoming preoccupied with their image or popularity.

Conclusion

Matthew 12:16 presents a profound insight into the nature of Christ’s ministry and the complexities of His identity. The command not to make Him known challenges believers to deepen their understanding of faith, ministry, and the essence of following Christ. His actions remind us that the work of God must often be approached with discretion and a focus on genuine transformation rather than mere public acknowledgement.