The Miraculous Messiah – The First Five Miracles
Now there was a man in their synagogue with an unclean spirit. And he cried out, saying, “Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God!” Mark 1:23-24
What a day at the synagogue for the people of Capernaum! First, Jesus delivers His powerful word to the people as “one having authority” (Mark 1:22). At the synagogue, the people usually heard a message about the traditions of the elders. Jesus’ message was different; it “astonished” them. Luther wrote in explanation: "With authority, that is, His preaching was as of one that means it with all seriousness; and what He said had power and lived, as though it had hands and feet."
After His astonishing exposition of the Law and Gospel, a demon-possessed man cried out, “Let us alone!” Christ, having power over the legions of hell, commanded the demon to come out of the man. It left with convulsions, but without harming the man. Jesus demonstrated His authority to those assembled by casting out the demon. Their faith was not based entirely on seeing the sign, but was confirmed in seeing Jesus’ power over demons.
In our current materialistic time, we often ignore the existence of Satan and his legions. That is a dangerous oversight. 1 Peter 5:8 reminds us, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” That sobriety and vigilance does not come from inner strength or bravery, but from leaning entirely on our Savior’s loving-care and His Almighty power over all our enemies.
The Word they still shall let remain,
Nor any thanks have for it;
He's by our side upon the plain
With His good gifts and Spirit.
And do what they will–
Hate, steal, hurt, or kill–
Though all may be gone,
Our victory is won;
The kingdom's ours forever!
Worship Supplement 2000 774:4