A better explanation for Jesus’ reluctance to have reports of his miracles and identity spread is found in Mark’s conviction that Jesus’ messiahship cannot be understood apart from his passion, and thus discipleship itself cannot be properly lived until the confession “Jesus is the Christ” is stripped of its misunderstandings and seen in light of the passion. Jesus’ prohibitions to demons, to those who are healed and to those who guess correctly concerning his identity reveal Jesus’ desire to guide