MPV Commentary

After healing Simon's mother-in-law and many others, Jesus was found in a solitary place at morning prayers. He was entreated to return to Capernaum but declined, instead embarking on his first missionary circuit.

21. They went into Capernaum, where Jesus entered the synagogue on the Sabbath day and taught. This marked the beginning of his regular teaching practice in Capernaum, which he continued thereafter.

22. The people were astonished by his teaching, not just because of its content but also due to the authority with which he spoke. His manner was distinct from that of the scribes.

23. In their synagogue, there was a man possessed by an unclean spirit. This spirit had such control over him that it seemed to have consumed his personality. The frequency with which evil spirits are described as "impure" in the Gospels is noteworthy.

24. The demon-possessed man cried out, saying, "Let us be alone! What do we have to do with you?" He was expressing a sense of separation and disconnection from Jesus. This phrase is reminiscent of expressions used in the Old Testament (1 Kings 17:18; 2 Kings 3:13; 2 Chronicles 35:21).

25. The man addressed Jesus as "Jesus of Nazareth," an epithet that originally carried contempt but was later adopted by those who revered him. He asked, "Have you come to destroy us?" This question reveals the demon's understanding of its own fate and its perception of Jesus as a threat.

26. The demon also acknowledged Jesus' identity, saying, "I know who you are – the Holy One of God." This testimony was given with no good intentions but rather in an attempt to associate Jesus with evil spirits. However, Jesus rejected this claim and silenced the demon's testimony.

27. After the demon was cast out, the people were amazed by what they had witnessed. They asked, "What is this new teaching? What kind of doctrine is this?" They recognized that the miracle was a demonstration of Jesus' authority and character.

28. As a result, Jesus' fame spread rapidly throughout Galilee, with many people seeking him out for healing and instruction.

29. After leaving the synagogue, Jesus went to the homes of Simon and Andrew, where he healed their mother-in-law and many others who were sick or possessed by demons.