Charles Spurgeon Commentary Matthew 12:15-16

"And Jesus perceiving [it] withdrew from thence: and many followed him; and he healed them all, and charged them that they should not make him known:" — Matthew 12:15-16 (ASV)

Their secret plans were all discerned by His omniscience. Jesus knew it and acted accordingly. He did not come to contend with fault-finders, and therefore He withdrew Himself from the scene of their constant arguments.

But He could not be alone. The crowd flocked after Him, and His love could not refuse to bless them with healing.

He did not want to cause a commotion, and so, when the people gathered in multitudes, He commanded them not to make His presence known. To Him, popularity became a hindrance in His work, and He shunned it. In this avoidance of notoriety, He fulfilled an ancient prophecy.

We are not instructed to conceal His gracious wonders, and therefore we would joyfully elaborate on that glorious record, He healed them all. What an encouragement to sin-sick souls to trust in Him!