Discussion Post
In an age of Social Media and instant communication for sharing important messages, it seems strange that we would still have the need to keep some things secret. In your study of Mark's Gospel this week, you were introduced to an issue of academic debate often referred to as, "The Messianic Secret Theory." This theory was first proposed in 1901 by Wilhelm Wrede and appears as a motif in Mark where we encounter Jesus frequently commanding people not to tell anyone about His identity. Other scholars claim that it was not a motif at all, and that Jesus' comments are consistent throughout the Gospels proclaiming His identity as the Messiah.
In this discussion, you are being asked to:
a) Compare and contrast the two different sides to this argument and the validity of the claims that surround, "The Messianic Secret Theory."
b) Academically defend your position as to whether-or-not you support, "The Messianic Secret Theory."
c) Describe how the application of, "The Messianic Secret Theory" will aid in your study of Mark's Gospel and why?