Just the Opposite

"And he charged them that they should tell no man: but the more he charged them, so much the more a great deal they published it" (Mark 7: 36). We may understand why Jesus suppressed spreading news about Him at this time. Some once tried to force Him to be an earthly king. The gathering of multitudes often hindered His work. His time had not yet come. Some say Jesus was using "reverse psychology," knowing people often did the opposite of what they were asked to do.

Whatever of that, it is interesting how the people did the very opposite of what He requested. It was because they were astonished "beyond measure" at the things He said and did. We can appreciate that. It was out of admiration for Him.

Many do the opposite of what the Lord expects of them, not from admiration but from rebellion. One can be acceptable while the other contemptible.