In the context of His ministry, Jesus frequently asked those He healed or who witnessed His miracles to keep quiet about what they had seen. This might seem counterintuitive, but it served several purposes. First, it helped to prevent the spread of a superficial understanding of His mission, which was not just about performing miracles but about bringing spiritual salvation and teaching about the Kingdom of God. Second, it helped to manage the growing crowds and the attention of religious and political authorities who might see Him as a threat. By controlling the spread of information, Jesus could continue His work without unnecessary hindrance.
Furthermore, this instruction highlights a deeper spiritual truth: the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah is meant to be a personal revelation, not merely based on public opinion or hearsay. It encourages individuals to seek a deeper understanding of His teachings and to develop a personal relationship with Him. This approach ensures that faith is rooted in genuine belief and understanding, rather than in spectacle or rumor.